At MGA, we believe in recognizing individuals who go above and beyond to deliver compassionate, expert care to the children and families we serve. That’s why we’re thrilled to celebrate Rachel Pena, Speech-Language Pathologist, as our 2024 Caregiver of the Year – Therapist.
With over 15 years of experience specializing in pediatric feeding therapy, Rachel’s clinical expertise is matched only by her unwavering passion for helping others. For the past 8 years, she has been an integral part of the MGA family, supporting our youngest patients—especially NICU graduates—as they begin their feeding journeys.
Rachel’s path to becoming an SLP began in high school, where she volunteered at a nursing home and shadowed a speech-language pathologist. That experience sparked a lifelong passion. She accelerated her education at Texas State University, finishing her undergraduate degree in just three years so she could dive directly into graduate school. Her early clinical career in both outpatient and home health settings sharpened her skills and broadened her understanding of interdisciplinary care, especially in collaboration with OT and PT.
Today, Rachel not only treats a full-time caseload but also supervises an SLPA, mentoring the next generation of speech therapists with the same empathy and excellence that define her own work.
When she’s not working, Rachel enjoys time with her husband and their two young children (ages 3 and 7), hiking Austin’s scenic trails, swimming, lifting weights, and diving into the latest book from one of her two book clubs. She’s also a self-declared expert in quoting Adam Sandler movies—something her colleagues and patients love about her humor and relatability.
Rachel says, “I enjoy making a difference and leaving an imprint in people’s lives. MGA has given me the flexibility to do what I love while maintaining a work-life balance that works for my family.”
We are beyond proud to honor Rachel Pena as our 2024 Caregiver of the Year. Thank you, Rachel, for the heart, knowledge, and dedication you bring to MGA and the families we serve every day.
Congratulations, Rachel!