Biographical Information

Andrew A. Galvan is a descendant of the Ohlone, Bay Miwok, Plains Miwok and Patwin Indians whose ancestral lands comprise the greater San Francisco Bay Region. His family’s roots reach back beyond European contact in the area. Andrew traces his ancestral lineage to the laying of the cornerstone of the first buildings at Mission San Jose by his great-great-grandfather Chief Tarino. The cornerstone for the present restored Mission San Jose Church was laid by his father Felipe “Phil” Galvan in June 1982.

Lately, Andrew Galvan’s efforts have focused on developing ways to preserve information about America’s ancient past for the benefit of future generations. Since 1978, he has been an active promoter of the Canonization Cause of Padre Junípero Serra and is currently Vice-Chairperson of the SERRA Cause Board of Directors. Andrew is President of The Board of Directors of The Ohlone Indian Tribe, Inc., as well as President of the Board of Directors for the Committee for the Restoration of Mission San Jose.

A long-time member of The California Mission Studies Association Andrew was its Board President from 1993 – 1997. Andrew is a founding member of The California Missions Foundation. As of February 1, 2004, Andrew has undertaken the duties as Curator of Old Mission Dolores, San Francisco, California. Andrew earned his B.A. in History from the California State University at Hayward.