Rick Shaw graduated from Alamo Heights High School in 1970 after an advanced athletic tenure on the varsity track team as well as the varsity football team, where he was voted to the All-District team and the All-City team. Rick was an officer in the “A” Club and was voted “Most Popular” and “Most Athletic” as a senior. Rick received a football scholarship to the University of North Texas, where he was the quarterback. In 1974, Rick graduated with degrees in Business Administration and Marketing.
In 1980, Rick established the Tierra Investment Company, and later, in 1989, revived and undertook operations of the Alamo Heights Pool. The pool had been a popular summer institution and a community landmark for over 40 years. However, after decades of use, it fell into disrepair and became a liability for the city. It was set to permanently close in 1989. Upon hearing this news about such a beloved spot, Rick presented a proposal at City Hall to lease the property. Alamo Heights agreed and Rick began repairs. He spent a year revitalizing the pool. Now, over 30 years later, Rick still operates the pool and it is once again a vibrant spot for families in Alamo Heights. In addition to managing the pool, Rick owned and operated La Fonda Alamo Heights, from 2000-2012 when it was located in Sunset Ridge.
In 2005, Rick obtained his license to become a professional charity auctioneer. He has served as the auctioneer for many nonprofit organizations, including the Alamo Heights School Foundation, using his personality and local connections to encourage generosity. His vocal and social skills also lent themselves to AHISD varsity football games for 20 years, where Rick was known as the “Voice of the Mules”. He continues to announce special events held at the Harry B. Orem Stadium.
Rick has been a board member of numerous organizations, including Big Brothers - Big Sisters, the Children’s Shelter of San Antonio, the Brackenridge Park Conservancy, and the Make-A-Wish Foundation, where he was also Chairman. He has served as President of the San Antonio Quarterback Club, the Alamo Heights Mule Team, the Town Club of San Antonio, and in 2006, he represented the Texas Cavaliers as King Antonio LXIV.
Rick, his wife, Ann, and their three children are all AHISD alumni. Rick and Ann are proud grandparents to five current Mules.