PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2015 AUDACIOUS, AGILE, ASPIRING & AIMING
TABLE OF CONTENTS 05 06 PRESIDENT'S EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 11
MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
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PRESIDENTIAL INAUGURATION OF DR. CYNTHIA TENIENTE-MATSON
32 MILESTONES AGILE: FIRST-TIME
AUDACIOUS: OUTSTANDING
ACHIEVEMENTS
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COLLEGE OF ARTS & SCIENCES
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS
COLLEGE OF EDUCATION & HUMAN DEVELOPMENT
UNIVERSITY LIBRARY • OFFICE OF GRADUATE STUDIES & RESERACH
64 TO SUCCESS AIMING: PATHWAYS
TEXAS A&M-SAN ANTONIO FOUNDATION • MILITARY EMBRACING
ASPIRING: 76 IN THE COMMUNITY
Dear Jaguar Community, It would be hard to overstate the progress made by Texas A&M UniversitySan Antonio since Cynthia TenienteMatson arrived last January to serve as interim president. As we mark her oneyear anniversary with the institution, it is appropriate to take a moment to reflect on some of these changes. When Dr. Matson arrived, Texas A&M-San Antonio was – as it had been since becoming a standalone university in 2009 – exclusively an upper-division university serving juniors and seniors. But we envisioned something bigger, and luckily Dr. Matson proved to be just the leader we needed. Working with lawmakers, she helped clear the path for downward expansion. This fall, the university began accepting freshmen and sophomores for the first time in its history, and is preparing to welcome its inaugural freshman class as a four-year university in fall of 2016. Following this success and others, it was fitting that, in October, we celebrated Dr. Matson’s official inauguration as the second president of Texas A&M-San Antonio.
Texas A&M-San Antonio is fundamentally changing the higher education landscape in San Antonio. By 2030, the state is aiming to have 60 percent of the 25- to 34-year old workforce hold a post-secondary credential. This can only be achieved by getting more traditionally underserved and first-generation students into college and making sure they graduate with high-quality degrees and little to no debt. In San Antonio, no institution can do this better than Texas A&M-San Antonio. Under Dr. Matson’s leadership, we fully anticipate that the university will become a model not just for the region and the state, but the entire country. Go Jags!
Cliff Thomas Chairman
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Time is an equal opportunity employer. Each human being has exactly the same number of hours and minutes every day. Rich people can’t buy more hours. Scientists can’t invent new minutes. And you can’t save time to spend it on another day. Even so, time is amazingly fair and forgiving. No matter how much time you’ve wasted in the past, you still have an entire tomorrow.”
Dear Friends and Colleagues of the University Community, The New Year is another milestone in the passage of time − a time of celebrations and family gatherings, but it’s also a time for reflection, resolution and hope for the future. I am extremely proud to present the Year 2015 in the pages of this publication as I celebrate my first year as president of A&M-San Antonio. The accomplishments that unfold before you would not have been possible without a vision: A vision to be audacious, agile, aspiring, and aiming for new heights. Thank you to all who have joined me on this journey: our dedicated faculty and staff; amazing students; alumni; the Board of Regents and especially Chancellor John Sharp. I’d like to give special acknowledgement to our community, business, local government, and legislative leaders. On behalf of my family, we truly appreciate the warm Texas welcome. As a dynamic and evolving institution, A&M-San Antonio took the critical steps necessary to develop high-impact practices, focused on our population, to create a pathway to prosperity and a super committee to lead the comprehensive four-year University expansion initiative. With a robust admissions plan and a forward-looking success model, A&M-San Antonio is excitedly and aptly poised to welcome the inaugural class of first-year students commencing with fall 2016.
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- Denis Waitely
Other impactful and meaningful accomplishments include the important financial investment and support from the 84th State Legislature, which has allowed us to be progressive in building this university. The launch of the digital open door policy for our faculty, staff, students and alumni, serves as a platform for vital and virtual dialog with all of our stakeholders. Early last year, the President’s Speaker Series provided an intellectual exchange with higher education experts that formed our Academic and Student Success Initiative. We have reached out to a broad range of community leaders seeking advice about A&M-San Antonio’s role in developing the water agenda. This collaborative approach produced two noteworthy water summits, with attendance by many thought leaders. Mr. Michael Burke, leader of the San Antonio Water Forum, and many friends of the A&M System facilitated a thoughtful discussion about the role our campus should play in education and applied research in water resource management and policy. These discussions spurred the development of our Institute of Water Resource Sciences and Technology, approved by the Board of Regents at their November meeting.
Vangie Flores, Dr. Matson and Mayor Ivy Taylor detonate the City of San Antonio 2016 New Year Fireworks, celebrating the first year of accepting freshman.
We celebrated our first official Fiesta-sanctioned event, Festival de Cascarónes, and opened our beautiful campus to record crowds. We also celebrated with over 700 graduates and their proud families at the spring and fall commencement ceremonies. We hosted several world-class exhibitions at the Centro de Artes featuring educational panel discussions, workshops, and a lecture series. Over the past few months, the University received notification from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board that our core curriculum proposal had been approved, and most recently our application for level change to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges—two truly momentous milestones in the history of our emerging University. Our stance within the military community has been strengthened as we continue to lead the way in educating our military personnel and veterans. A&M-San Antonio is one of the nation’s Top 50 universities for military veterans pursuing higher education and is also designated as a military-embracing school exhibiting best practices in support of military students and employees. I am grateful, honored and forever inspired to serve as the second president of A&M-San Antonio. Words cannot describe the campus-wide spirit and celebratory moments of the inauguration events that helped commemorate my investiture. I am humbled to lead this university and to have participated in this historic rite of
passage. In the words of the Honorable Henry Cisneros, who addressed the audience on October 10, 2015, “this daughter of the South Side” is so proud to be home. Home at One University Way, a place where students prepare to compete in a complex global society. As I look back on 2015, I pledge to use the experiences of the past to be stronger for the future. I stand ready to continue the evolution of A&M-San Antonio—building an innovative, comprehensive four-year university that is destined to change the landscape of San Antonio and the great state of Texas. Alongside our students, faculty, staff and leadership, I will courageously step beyond barriers and take on opportunities to help, listen and learn on behalf of this university built by the community, for the community. What a magnificent time it is for A&M-San Antonio—2016 will be an inflection point for our future. As we continue to grow, we remain a place where our community emerges as an inclusive society for all who work, study, play and visit. With every end there’s a beginning and ours starts now as we open the doors to a new journey in becoming a comprehensive four-year university—for our best days are ahead. Sincerely,
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PRESIDENTIAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE VISION STATEMENTS
Brent Snow
Provost & Vice President, Academic Affairs
Melissa Mahan
Vice President, Student Affairs
Office of the Provost Graduates from Texas A&M UniversitySan Antonio are highly sought after by employers for their expertise and they are active in developing and enriching their communities.
Darrell Morrison
CFO & Vice President, Business Affairs
Tracy Hurley
Dean, College of Business
Division of Student Affairs The Department of Student Affairs provides an engaging environment for our diverse student population. We embrace an inclusive learning community with respect, responsibility and acceptance for all cultures while cultivating transformative experiences that challenge students to be their best and empowering them to make meaningful contributions to a global society.
Division of Business Affairs Eric Lopez
Dean, College of Education & Human Development
Mirley Balasubramanya
Dean, College of Arts & Sciences
The Business Affairs division works with various individuals—across campus, in the community, and in the state of Texas—to achieve the mission and goals set forth by the University. We are strong advocates of collaboration, teamwork, and shared governance on issues that affect the university community, especially student and academic success.
College of Arts & Sciences The vision of the College of Arts & Sciences is that every graduate possesses intellectual and professional skills necessary for career readiness, post-baccalaureate education, and lifelong learning by demonstrating excellence in foundational knowledge in the arts and sciences, communication skills, analytical reasoning, quantitative thinking, and independent thought. The faculty and students contribute richly to intellectual inquiry and scholarship.
College of Business The College of Business develops and delivers high quality, innovative, specialized, and interdisciplinary programs that are affordable and accessible. Through a curriculum that has a foundation based in ethical decisionmaking, students will learn to apply theory and engage in applied research to address global business opportunities.
College of Education & Human Development The vision of the College of Education & Human Development at Texas A&M UniversitySan Antonio is to develop and train culturally responsive educators and practitioners who are Ready From Day One.
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PRESIDENTIAL INAUGURATION of
DR. CYNTHIA TENIENTE-MATSON
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In a celebratory week to commemorate the inauguration of Texas A&M-San Antonio’s second president, the faculty, students and staff proudly presented its newest leader, Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson to the community at large with landmark events over six festive days. The week of October 5-10, 2015, marked major milestones for the University as it welcomed its newest president. The days leading up to the historic ceremony were filled with exciting academic and social events for the entire community. The Inaugural Committee, tasked with planning this important affair, incorporated symbols of Texas A&M-San Antonio’s successes with activities that were inclusive, scholarly as well as thought-provoking.
Military Embracing
Presidential Inauguration Week began with Military Embracing Monday on October 5, a perfect fall day in which a majestic fly-over by the Commemorative Air Force set the tone for this stellar occasion. These magnificent military aircraft are part of our nation’s
history and served in missions from days gone by. It was a breathtaking site and truly symbolic of the importance of this change of command. The military theme continued with the Women’s Military Panel: Transitions Building a Lifetime of Success. A phenomenal group of females shared stories of the challenges they faced as women in the military and spoke of marriage, family, deployments, promotions and transitioning to civilian life; exemplifying grace and courage every step of the way.
Scholarly Snapshots
Recognizing academia at its best, students and faculty engaged in the Scholarly Snapshots on Tuesday, October 6. Professors and students from the College of Business, the College of Education & Human Development and the College of Arts & Sciences were selected by a committee of their peers. The program contained topics which enlightened and educated attendees. Topics ranged from “The Importance of Cultural Awareness for Global Managers” to “Human Trafficking: A Serious Concern.”
AT A GLANCE
INAUGURATION
WEEK
OCTOBER 5−10 Get a glimpse of the action at #MatsonWeek on social media. 14
Military Embracing
The week began with a symbolic aerial presentation by the Commemorative Air Force over Patriots' Casa.
Alumni Visit
Patriots’ Casa served as the main venue for several events welcoming alumni back to campus on Tuesday evening. The outdoor fireplace set the welcoming atmosphere for the cool autumn night and U.S. military flags which adorned the area added a hint of grandeur. Alumni who graduated before the new campus was built were captivated by the beautiful sandstone structures and the iconic dome atop the Central Academic Building that now replaces the mesquite they remembered. As the Jaguar family continues to grow, this event is destined to become an annual tradition.
Dream Maker Luncheon
The University honored Bill Greehey at the Dream Maker Luncheon on Wednesday, October 7, for his outstanding contributions as an exceptional corporate executive, humanitarian and philanthropist. The event celebrated Greehey, president of the Greehey Family Foundation, and its generous $1 million endowment gift to support the First Generation Endowed Scholarship. Greehey, a first-generation graduate himself, is indeed making
dreams come true for numerous students who struggle to pay for higher education.
Artistic Affairs
To complement inauguration week, artistic elements were included to bring creativity and culture to light on Thursday, October 8. The day began with the live performance of “Mariachi Girl,” a play written by Roxanne Schroeder-Arce. As a tribute to the new president, Schroeder-Arce graciously debuted her work at Texas A&M-San Antonio as a grand memento to Dr. Matson, her dear friend and colleague. Being that the play is about a strong-voiced character, Arce said the premiere was fitting because Dr. Matson, who is one of the few Latina university presidents in the nation, is a critical model for young Latinos and Latinas and proof that dreams can and do come true. In the evening, Dr. Matson and special guests gathered at Centro de Artes in Market Square for a wine tasting hosted by the Instituto Cervantes. The event also provided an opportunity for guests, which included
Brigadier General Joe E. Ramirez, Jr. spoke at Military Embracing Monday.
Scholarly Snapshots
Faculty and students from all three colleges showcased research and academia’s best.
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members of the business community, to see the various dimensions of the educational and cultural center that is Texas A&M-San Antonio’s downtown gem.
Students Go All Out
To reciprocate the heartfelt appreciation and love Dr. Matson has shown to the student body since Day One, numerous student organizations commemorated her new position by hosting a variety of events. On Friday, October 9, the Student Government Association (SGA) assembled officers from student clubs/organizations for a distinct President’s Dinner. Other events hosted by student organizations included a campus concert, career fair and a chili cook-off.
Community: Campus and City
More exciting and memorable events took place on and off campus during these extraordinary six days. Diversity speaker Alma Clayton-Pedersen presented “Creating a Culture of Inclusive Excellence at A&M-San Antonio,” which was powerful and reflective of A&M&-SA's future. The Women’s Chamber of Commerce leadership
Dream Maker Luncheon 16
presentation of “Smart Women Know How To Develop Leadership Skills” was insightful, and the screening of “Two Fronts: Latinos and Vietnam” documentary was convincing and thought-provoking. Lastly, a panel discussion between civil servants, civic leaders and scholars regarding Islam in the workplace was compelling and significant, especially during this time in our nation’s history.
Inauguration Ceremony
The Presidential Inauguration Ceremony, a tradition that dates back to the mid-17th century is a rite of passage to formally acknowledge a change in leadership at the University’s highest level. On October 10, 2015, Cynthia Teniente-Matson, Ed.D was ceremonially inducted as President of Texas A&M-San Antonio. The ceremony began with grandeur as the faculty processional made its way to the University Seal that adorns the Grand Courtyard and led by mace bearer and Faculty Senate President, Dr. Lorrie Webb.
This year’s luncheon honored corporate executive and philanthropist Mr. Bill Greehey for his $1 million gift to support the First Generation Endowed Scholarship.
Dream Maker Luncheon
Former A&M-SA System Regent and first Dream Maker recipient Lowry Mays with Dr. Matson.
Those closest to Dr. Matson, along with numerous academic, civic and government leaders, were in attendance to witness the grand ceremony. Members of the A&M System Board of Regents and Chancellor John Sharp, along with prominent members of the community, were in attendance. Also present to see this poignant ritual were a number of visiting University delegates, and family and friends who made their way to the Alamo City, traveling from as far as California and Alaska; two great states where Dr. Matson grew up, lived, worked and clearly left her mark. Those in attendance witnessed the spirit of a Native American blessing recited by Erwin De Luna of the United San Antonio Pow Wow.
Dr. Matson is a win, win, win. A win for the A&M System, a win for the city of San Antonio and a win for advancement and progress of the people." - Henry Cisneros
The Honorable Secretary Henry Cisneros spoke and said universities build the people that will build this nation, and President Matson is here to make it happen. In a heartfelt speech, Dr. Matson shared her exciting and innovative vision for the future of the University.
As one of few Latina university presidents in the nation, Dr. Matson is a critical model for young Latinas and Latinos— proof that our dreams can and do come true.� "Mariachi Girl"
- Roxanne Schroeder-Arce, playwright "Mariachi Girl"
Students' thank you letters to Dr. Matson for the opportunity to see "Mariachi Girl" performances.
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Outlined in her remarks was her promise to the Regents, Chancellor Sharp, students, faculty and staff, as well as the San Antonio community, that she has an undying allegiance to take the University to new heights. She shared her pride in the successes the University has accomplished thus far, and voiced her vision to make the University a national model for student and academic success, as well as a highly valuable resource to the San Antonio community. She’s confident the University community will be audacious and agile, as they aspire and aim for big goals. Dr. Matson is humbled and honored to lead the University to new heights as a four-year academic institution, an inclusive community that is destined to change the landscape of San Antonio and Texas. At the conclusion of the presidential inauguration ceremony, Dr. Matson was presented the chain of office by Chancellor Sharp and Regent Elaine Mendoza. As the University’s second president stood wearing the chain of
SGA President's Dinner 18
Student Government Association hosted a wonderful dinner in celebration of President Matson’s inauguration with members of student organizations and SGA in attendance.
office around her neck, Dr. Matson pledged that the celebration will forever serve as a reminder of the job she has before her and of what the University can become as an institution of higher learning.
NATIVE AMERICAN
BLESSING As the President of this University of Higher learning, I ask Wa-Gan-Tah (Creator) To cleanse your hands that they may create beautiful things, To cleanse your feet that they may take you to where you need to be most, To cleanse your heart that you might hear its messages clearly, To cleanse your voice that you might speak the right words when they are needed the most, To cleanse your eyes that you might see the signs and wonder of this world. Wa-Gan-Tah, I pray that you will provide guidance to Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson as the leader of this University and ask for your blessings in her daily life. Way-We-Nah In-Dot-Z (Thank You) (Father)`
About the Blessing
Adorned with the chain of office worn around her neck, Dr. Matson received a Native American blessing from Erwin De Luna of United San Antonio Pow Wow to fortify her spirit, mind and body as the University’s newest President. Native Americans are the indigenous peoples of our lands. Their traditions are embedded into some of the customs and culture of our current society. Like many civilizations, a spirutal connectedness reigned supreme within the Native American culture; therefore the performance of blessings and cleansings were a common practice.
ARCHITECTS OF CHANGE
CREATING A
PATHWAY TO PROSPERITY
Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson’s Inaugural Message This morning is an opportunity for us to celebrate some bright spots that characterize our great, emerging university. As we recognize that change creates both momentum and sometimes challenges – this growth, this change is also a time for us to reflect. It seems fitting to pause and begin with a modified version of the Serenity Prayer: Chancellor Sharp and the A&M Board of Regents: Grant me the Serenity to accept the leadership challenges that we cannot change; The Courage to change our student’s lives where we can; and the Wisdom to know the difference.
Chancellor Sharp welcomes Dr. Matson on stage for her Inaugural Message.
To our energetic and motivated students; our staff members who create a positive, dynamic and professional atmosphere every day; our dedicated and exceptional faculty; our accomplished academic, business, community, and elected officials; our loyal and proud alumni; and our foundation board members: Thank you for all that you do to make this a great university, and a special thank you to all who have planned and organized each and every inaugural event this week, culminating with today’s ceremony. The week was truly spectacular. I was moved to tears several times as I participated at various events. These activities speak to the quality and creativity of the Texas A&M University-San Antonio community.
selecting me to lead this institution and offering me the opportunity to serve and contribute. The trust you place in me is significant, and I offer my absolute commitment to A&M-San Antonio’s success.
Today, I am briefly at the forefront. However, you represent the University and the many voices of the community of students, faculty, staff, and friends each and every day.
A special thanks to John Welty, President Emeritus of California State University at Fresno for 22 years. You are an incredible mentor and friend and have provided me opportunities to flourish and prepared me to grow – leading to this role at the podium today. And I’m honored to have Maria Hernandez Ferrier here on the platform.
Chancellor Sharp and Regents Mendoza and Schwartz: Thank you for
I am pleased that Texas Secretary of State Carlos Cascos could join us today. We are honored to have him on our campus, and we appreciate his generosity in sharing a bit of time with our students and campus community. I’d also like to welcome my family and friends who have traveled from throughout the country to be here.
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She led A&M-San Antonio through its early beginnings and formed the foundation for our beautiful campus, including the distinct architecture of our facilities, which will have a long-lasting impact on the campus culture and exceptional learning environment for decades to come. Maria, I am honored by your presence. You symbolize a strong commitment that I have to the stewardship and growth of this incredible campus. Thank you for joining us today. My parents, Carlos and Gloria Teniente, are here with us today. Their commitment to a solid work ethic, along with their many sacrifices, provided a life of opportunity for my sister and me. They shaped the person I’ve become that has provided me the privilege of being with you today. My sister, Rebecca, is here; and my pseudo-sister, Victoria, is here with her husband, David, who trekked from Alaska; and to Mariah, who moved to Texas with us, and the rest of our California and Texas family, welcome. My sons Phillip and Wyatt: You are both an enormous source of pride, joy, and inspiration. Thank you for your support during this transition. I thank and welcome Madame Chair of the
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Phillip and Wyatt Matson proudly praise their dedicated and hard-working mother at her inauguration.
Table Mountain Rancheria Leanne Walker Grant and Bob Pennell for joining us today. Sharon Brown Welty was my dissertation chair. Without her, I wouldn’t be here today! And many of my favorite and endearing friends from California State University are here, and my special lifelong friends from Alaska are here: Jan, Cyndi, Dennis, Paula, and my childhood BFF, who I met when I was 12, Debbie. Thank you all so very much for being here today. This journey we call "life" brings together so many people and my journey would not have been complete without my husband, Mike, whose patience, love, and willingness to tackle everything I volunteer us for never goes unnoticed. Words cannot express my gratitude and appreciation to have you as my husband and partner for the past 22
years. Through our short time here, Mike has become a terrific ambassador for A&M-San Antonio. I am humbled by this moment. I send my sincere appreciation to the A&M community and to all of my colleagues and fellow presidents from around the great State of Texas for your warm welcome and acceptance of Mike and me. Thank you especially for your unwavering pledge to the vision of our great future. I am thankful for your dedication and commitment to advancing the A&M excellence here in San Antonio. I am hard-pressed to describe the profound and intense feelings of elation, honor, humility and privilege as I stand before you today as the second president of this great university. No person achieves excel-
lence alone, and I’ve been truly blessed to learn from so many gifted colleagues throughout my career. They have influenced me with their integrity, their passion for their academic discipline and enduring aspiration to spread the public good of higher education. I am fortunate to have an ecosystem of support within the higher education community and throughout the A&M System family. Since arriving on campus in mid-January, I have spent much time listening to students, faculty, and staff and learning about all that we have to offer through our great programs and from our alumni, who are finding their way in the world, inspiring the next generation of students. A prime example is Cresencio Davila.
Cresencio served as the first SGA president of A&M-San Antonio as an undergraduate student and was later named the first Student Regent from A&M-San Antonio by former Texas Governor Rick Perry. He is a dual graduate who also earned his MBA with us and today serves as the Client Service Director for Robert Half Management Resources. He continues to serve his community. In fact, he chaired the sub-committee for the Inauguration Week Alumni Networking Mixer. Our Communications Department continues to develop our outstanding students − many of whom have been part of our one-of-a-kind in the nation program with Univision, which shares its actual production studio as a classroom. In fact, we have two recent graduates: Nicole West, who is now attending graduate school at UC Berkeley, and Jon Salas at Boston University. They are shining stars and highly sought after, like our graduates in the teacher education program. They are recipients of “Teacher of the Year” awards, like Jennifer Vasquez, who teaches Social Studies at Rawlinson Middle School in NISD. In 2014, Jennifer won the NISD’s Educator of the Year Award and was also honored with the ExCel award, presented by KENS-TV and SACU, which named her one of the best educators in San Antonio! These graduates represent countless others who are the power of A&M-San Antonio.
THE POWER OF THE A&M SYSTEM IN S.A.
Inaugurations are beacons that signal a transition for universities. Throughout the week, we celebrated with diverse faces and voices that all point to our positive future. And while I sometimes say our best days are ahead us, I want to pause for a moment and also remind us that today is also a “best day.” For today is what prepares us for tomorrow. Preparation leads to agility. At numerous times, I’ve used the word “agile” to describe our ability to respond quickly, to be nimble, and to effectively respond to the needs of our students and our community. Agile is not typically a word used to describe life in a public university, but that’s not the case here. We leverage the talents and resources we have to continue to elevate the A&M System of excellence and deliver results at what’s often an accelerating speed. I’ve also used the word “audacious” just about everywhere I go. It provokes the challenge to unleash creativity, let go of habits that unintentionally inhibit new perspectives and to pursue big ideas – not just any idea – but those that guarantee quality opportunities for our students, our colleagues, and our community. At this moment in our history, we are fortunate to
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LEFT Texas A&M University System Board of Regent Vice Chairman Elaine Mendoza speaks at the Inauguration Ceremony. TOP-RIGHT Texas A&M International University President Ray M. Keck, III congratulates Dr. Matson on her inauguration. MIDDLE-RIGHT Regent Mendoza, Dr. Matson, Regent Charles W. Schwartz and Chancellor Sharp at Dr. Matson's welcome reception. BOTTOM-RIGHT Texas A&M-College Station faculty member Dr. Edelmiro "Miro" Escamilla presented a special multi-map shadow box to Dr. Matson for her inauguration.
LEFT Dr. Matson walks in a procession, past the University Seal, as faculty follow to the inauguration ceremony.
be untethered by past traditions; we seize this unique circumstance – for us to be architects of tomorrow and to create the A&M-San Antonio University of the future − a future that is intentional, deliberate and student-ready. I have asked my campus colleagues to embrace the power of the A&M System and leverage the significant investments that have been made for this great university and this tremendous city. Here at A&M-San Antonio, it is truly different. Let me explain a couple of these differences. First, we celebrate our great place – located here in the underserved region of San Antonio − the historic South Side. This region is reawakening and will experience a rebirth, launched largely in part by the presence of our great university alongside the World Heritage-designated San Antonio Missions. Together, we represent the crown jewels of the South Side. Father David, whom you heard from earlier, speaks with great vigor and passion about the World Heritage designation and the future of interactive learning within the missions. And he calls this process of discovery “experiential tourism.” His spiritual connections to a higher order and the
connectedness of the region’s authenticity are cornerstones for learning, founded on centuries of experience and hands-on exchanges between theory and “doing.” We too speak about the importance of interactive learning and the impact of applied classroom theory and moving it to real life action through experiential learning. Across the campus, our faculty is developing this process of discovery and they are embedding it into every corner of the curriculum. All new students will have at least two experiential learning encounters in every program in every college and four years in a learning community to progressively navigate the higher education expectations. Also, we are one of the few universities that will provide an experiential learning transcript. As a part of our National Role Model for Student and Academic Success, we are creating intentional practices which document the experiential journey of our students during their academic career— to date, these types of transcripts are in development at only seven universities nationwide. A&M-San Antonio will launch the experiential transcript in fall 2016.
THE POWER OF THE A&M SYSTEM IS HERE I commit to steward this great place – and by virtue of our geography, our presence will continue to catapult purposeful economic development that contributes to South San Antonio and beyond. We have an enviable future in this community.
Among the many indelible characteristics of our institution − simply put − is our name, Texas A&M, one of the most widely recognized and distinguished names in the higher education sector. We are harnessing our identity as a valued member of the A&M System to build a national model for student and academic success. I have every confidence that we will become THE national model. Yes, our best days are ahead.
BUILDING A PATHWAY TO PROSPERITY Our campus is graced with a rich diversity of wonderful faces and voices – some that have faced significant adversity, some that have proudly served our country, some that represent the best in their academic class, and for some, first in their generations of
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WE WERE BORN TO FILL A NEED IN A VASTLY UNDERSERVED REGION
family to earn a college degree. One of our unique assets is the fact that a majority of our students come from homes facing economic hardship or where college was not a readily accepted tradition. Here, we proudly embrace our students – and all their experiences and identities they bring with them. We were born to fill a need in a vastly underserved geographic region. One of our signature initiatives is to be accessible and affordable, and to build evidence-based practices that help all students − most notably those from vastly underserved communities, such as the first-generation college students and historically underrepresented, particularly those that self-identify as Latino or Latina. We embrace our students to be inclusive of everyone. Our focus is to “meet students where they are in their journey” and stand alongside them as they ascend to a pathway to prosperity that’s a significant outcome of success. We know attaining a degree contributes to the economic, social, cultural and intellectual prosperity of our graduates and this lays the foundation to a more progressive community. This pathway to prosperity resonates to my heritage. You see, I too am a product of this largely underserved Southside neighborhood. “78224,” our campus ZIP code, is in my DNA.
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Please know I will always be committed to this region. I’ve traveled the world and lived in various cities. I have an inherent passion for learning, and it all began right here. Here’s the difference − when I was a child here, there were no higher education options in my neighborhood, no Palo Alto, no A&M-San Antonio. Thanks to the commitment and dedicated vision of great legislative leaders like Texas State Senators Frank Madla and Carlos Uresti, we’re vibrant and strong. They too believed, when others did not, in the pathway to prosperity where a better life would begin through this great university, in this region. I dedicate my wholehearted commitment to make this university a better place because our region needs it. The faculty and staff at A&M-San Antonio are architects of circumstance and they too have harnessed A&M excellence and have escalated their commitment to create a pathway to prosperity – our best days are ahead.
A CONSPIRACY OF HIGH EXPECTATIONS
Today, October 10, 2015, we are ten months and 14 days away from welcoming our inaugural freshman class of students. And about six weeks ago, at Fall Convocation,
I challenged our community to join me in creating a conspiracy − yes that’s right − a conspiracy; but not the kind that requires wire-tapping or covert operations. This is much more difficult for it requires innovation and grit − that’s a conspiracy of high expectations. Imagine that, all of us in this room, weaving together our collective spheres of influence, conspiring to create a pathway to prosperity. Here and now, we are embracing the best-known techniques and inventing new practices, while contributing our grit with tenacity to ensure that we truly meet each fabulous student wherever they are in their emotional and intellectual readiness and guaranteeing their success. And I have challenged our entire community to come together and challenge the norms of higher education. We must “out innovate” to achieve the student excellence we’re aiming for. We cannot imitate greatness. We have to live it through evidenced-based practices adapted for our student population. I pledge to you, on behalf of our students, to embrace this responsibility and not shy away from it. We know what we need to do to produce results for our unique student population. We are the university for everyone. Here at A&M-San Antonio, we’re creating a system with the highest expectations for learning and engagement and an attitude of excellence, irrespective of life circumstances.
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A&M-SA
STUDENT SNAPSHOT FALL 2015 ENROLLMENT
4,564 STUDENTS
57% FIRST GENERATION
67% HISPANIC 64% FEMALE 30
These achievements include graduating with knowledge and skills that reduce barriers and embed the ability to be civic-minded, thoughtful citizens. We know this strategy will solidly place our alumni on the pathway to prosperity. Each university has its own academic and social culture and many micro-cultures. That’s what makes education dynamic and suitable for the vast array of individual student and faculty aspirations.
weeks ago, I was visiting the Science Mill with Drs. Robert Elde and Bonnie Baskin, both of whom are amazing social entrepreneurs and science scholars. Dr. Elde asked me, “Do you recall that moment?” And he describes it like this: “The moment when there was a person who gave you confidence, ignited the spark in you to pursue a discipline or career.” I ask you, this morning, do you remember? Do you remember that moment?
However, at A&M-San Antonio, we are on the on-ramp – metaphorically − we’re on the on-ramp to become a comprehensive four-year university and we know our lane. We will work together to provide the best education to all. However, our lane is a specialty. Here we embrace the underserved and the historically underrepresented. This is our lane and we will continue to be strategic in our focus to best serve and support our diverse populations of students.
That defining “moment” has been simmering in my mind for the past eight weeks. Now that’s more than an aha “moment.” It’s a subliminal intersection that brews in our psyche.
We will conspire for prominence and the highest possible R.O.P. – return on people. Not R.O.I., but R.O.P. It is the “people” that matter. And those people are our faculty, staff, and leadership that have the greatest passion for our students. This critical investment will have the greatest return on people, our students, who will become alumni and prominent global citizens on their upward trajectory towards prosperity. In closing, I’ll share this final thought as to why A&M-San Antonio is ever so relevant today. Six
As we navigate on our University’s journey to become a comprehensive four-year university, my “moment” has me thinking back to my days as a college freshman. I was a traditional student attending the University of Alaska − times were much simpler. I enrolled as an eager freshman with the idea to become a petroleum engineer. Well, that lasted partway through the first semester − in my first course in petroleum engineering − when I realized this course of study was a complete disconnect for me. I later found that I connected and relished the study of business management. The interesting phenomena about being a student, and in my case a traditional 17-year-old student, is the process of learning ran parallel with my process of intellectual maturity and the evolution of
RIGHT Dr. Matson with A&M-West Texas President Dr. Pat O'Brien
my own human development. As we live through this student phase, we cross paths with people that will influence a direction, or ignite a spark and passion − a “moment.” As an undergraduate student, I recall only three professors. There is only one I can recite the name, course number and period of time and semester when I took the course.
professionals, we imagine the best for all of our students, and we wait because we know we are nurturing something greater − their talents as these students build their life tools on their way to becoming strategic and thoughtful thinkers and contributors to a better community, a better region, and a better world.
It just so happened that person, who vividly influenced my learning and created a “moment” that simmered for years, was my college economics professor. Economics 350 Money and Banking − summer session, with then UAF Professor Dr. Pat O’Brien and now President O’Brien at A&M-West Texas. I am so honored that he was able to join us today. More importantly, it is a reminder to me, and all of us here today, that it sometimes takes decades for us to realize the impact, influence and spark that we have on others. Now, like most alumnus, I’ve led a busy life and never took the opportunity to reach out or the time to reflect on that “moment” and say “thank you.”
Universities like A&M-San Antonio thrive on the energy of great people who commit to creating the foundation that will move our graduates onto the pathway to prosperity.
There have been many “moments” along the way. These “moments” take on various forms of what I now refer to as “hallway mentoring,” alongside traditional classroom learning or the conversations that take place during faculty office hours. Most times we cannot foresee the greatness we are unleashing in others, just by offering encouraging words at the right moment, at the right place. As educators and higher education
Today and now, what we’re doing at A&M-San Antonio includes all forms of pedagogy in multiple formats, digitally and traditionally. Alongside undergraduate research and experiential learning, these proven practices weren’t as readily available when I was a student. But here and now at A&M-San Antonio, our presence alone ignites aspirations. I’m frequently told by parents, spouses and partners of our current and prospective students, “We are so happy that A&M-San Antonio is an option.” And we celebrate our faculty who have generated countless “moments” for thousands of students. In fact, since 2009, some 5,634 students have received degrees from our emerging university. And that number will begin to grow exponentially in ten months and 14 days. Our faculty, staff, and leadership will focus on creating a powerful A&M-San Antonio “moment” with a new community of student learners.
WE WILL CONSPIRE FOR PROMINENCE AND THE
HIGHEST POSSIBLE R.O.P.
RETURN ON
PEOPLE We know here in San Antonio, talent is universal, opportunity is not.
Together with the campus community, I encourage each of us to embrace our good fortune and the presence of this prestigious campus and all its aesthetic beauty. We will soon offer even more options for long overdue opportunities for our region, our state and the A&M System family. I invite you all to join me in creating moments. Join me as an architect of change, building this ambitious and prestigious university. We have plans for new disciplines and programs, like a School of Engineering, and partnerships with other educational institutions. And new co-curricular activities for students like housing, honors programs, and yes, a competitive athletics program. Join the momentum for audacious thinking as we build the pathway to prosperity for future generations of A&M-San Antonio students and their families. For our best days are ahead.
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A VISION TO BE
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ASPIRING
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Creating the Institute for Water Resources Science and Technology In an effort to fortify water education and science at Texas A&M-San Antonio, the Institute for Water Resources Science and Technology was approved in November 2015 by the Texas A&M System Board of Regents. Recognizing the Institute will benefit researchers and students, as well as San Antonio’s blue economy, the decision to implement this important initiative supports Dr. Matson’s vision to create an on-ramp for water education and science. The Regents’ action, combined with an award of the Texas A&M Chancellor’s Research Initiative to recruit director, Dr. Rudolph Rosen, propelled the Institute forward. Within hours of the Regents’ approval to create the new institute, water leaders from throughout Texas and beyond gathered at Texas A&M-San Antonio’s campus with energy and food experts to work together forming a Water Technology Roadmap. Attendees focused on defining technology-based solutions for the most critical problems at the nexus of water, energy and food, from the perspective of human dimensions, education and policy. The Institute for Water Resources Science and Technology will support the scientific, technology, outreach and educational needs to solve the resources challenges of the 21st century and other emerging water resource issues. Researchers and graduates will gain knowledge in the following areas:
Our plans are to establish a world-class water presence in San Antonio that is a problem solver, not just for this region, but for the world and A&M-SA is going to be part of it." - MIke Burke Chair/Founder, San Antonio Clean Technology Forum
• Working to advance water treatment and distribution • Developing integrated water-energy land use models for sustainable development • Managing water supplies • Educating the community about water conservation, reuse and recycling In collaboration with organizations that are highly regarded in the industry, the University will partner with experts, not only to resolve water issues for San Antonio, but to reach out to the global community as well. Faculty and staff have already worked closely with The Texas A&M System agencies; The Meadows Foundation for Water and Environment; the San Antonio Water System; the National Science Foundation-funded Research Coordination Network for Climate, Energy, Environment and Engagement in Semiarid Regions; and the San Antonio River Authority; and look forward to forming more strategic partnerships with organizations. In advance of forming the Institute, the University was involved in key events which brought together some of San Antonio’s finest to lay the groundwork and discuss the water agenda for academic programming and applied research. Summits in March and July 2015 at Texas A&M-San Antonio engaged influential leaders who helped define an applied water research program that will be innovative, appropriate and relevant. In October, attendees of the San Antonio Clean Technology Forum continued the water discussion and helped the University raise $15,000 for student scholarships and provide funding for the new institute. As a beacon of the future, the Institute for Water Resources Science and Technology will help supply the education and experience students require to be workforce-ready for the region’s water jobs of today and tomorrow.
BE FIRST FIRST Freshman Class On June 1, 2015, the State of Texas ended its 84th legislation session, which was a turning point for A&M-San Antonio. Legislation was passed that ensured the longevity of the University with the approval of $11 million enabling the school to become a four-year comprehensive university. Also approved were $63 million in tuition revenue bonds to be used for science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).
Championed by State Senator Carlos Uresti, the
legislative funding was indeed a “game-changer” for the generations of students to come. This led the University to become a comprehensive four-year university and start recruiting for the first freshman class for fall 2016.
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Building a National Student Model for Academic Success 2015 was a year of preparation as the University formulated plans to create a National Model of Student and Academic Success The utilization of high-impact practices that support the University’s student learning outcomes.
The development of a University culture which fosters a sense of mindfulness and belongingness within all students.
The expectation that all students will participate in experiential learning that is appropriate to their academic program and professional goals.
The recognition that service learning is an important component in fostering both individual development and to the creation of connections between the classroom and the community.
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As a young university, A&M-San Antonio is strategically situated to build deliberate and intentional practices to improve and enhance student learning at every step of a student’s collegiate experience. The proposed plan for the student experience, and the University’s steps to implement it, was created by multidisciplinary teams and task forces overseen by Provost Brent Snow and Vice President Melissa Mahan. The first phase of the process brought in national experts on model practices from across the country to help frame a common understanding of what student success at A&M-San Antonio will mean now and in the future. The Student Success Plan arose from the work of the Campus Team and the research and planning phase. The Student Success Plan Reflecting the diversity of our student population and military-embracing focus, the Student Success Plan centers on high-impact practices including writing intensive courses, mentorship opportunities, co-curricular experiences and research. A new Bridge Program will introduce freshmen and transfer students to the University experience and expectations. Then students will choose a thematic learning community through Jaguar Tracks. Along with service learning and other experiential learning activities, students will take four one-hour courses designed to integrate the student’s theme through reflection and other exercises to help students connect knowledge gained both inside and outside of the classroom. The learning communities are supported by the development of the students' e-portfolio and serve as guideposts to success, preparing students for life after graduation.
FIRST Jaguar Marketing Company FIRST Time in Adelante Residential Program A&M-San Antonio is student-focused and committed to providing all students the tools and knowledge to excel in our complex global society. In effort to uphold that promise, the University sponsored 10 students from all three colleges to participate in the 2015 ¡Adelante! Annual Leadership Institute & Recruitment Expo held October 30 – November 1. These undergraduates were nominated by faculty and represented A&M-San Antonio in three days of workshops and hands-on activities of skill building, networking strategies, career exploration, empowerment, leadership styles, instruction and more. The University has sponsored students to attend the leadership institute for the past three years, which continues to make a difference as they progressed on their pathway to prosperity. We congratulate the following students on their sponsorship this year: Priscilla Wallesch Steven Munoz Elisabeth Delgado Jon-Eric Avila
Felicia Martinez James Reyes Aimee Gonzales
Travories (Sean) Davis Joyce Olivarri Isabel Garza
In an effort to appeal to all students and maximize the reach of the A&M System’s excellence, the Jaguar Marketing Company was formed to empower faculty, staff and students to actively participate in the recruiting, branding and marketing of A&M-San Antonio. Nick Longo, founder of Geekdom, was brought in as the Strategic Adviser to the Jaguar Marketing Company. Within months, the Marketing Department accelerated outreach to attract new students; educated and informed families on the benefits and value of a degree as they relate to today’s job markets; and implemented a social media strategy to further engage current and future students. Outreach methods included middle school marketing, a robust advertising campaign and the launch of becomeajaguar.com, which increased exposure of the University’s beautiful campus by way of school and student tours. It’s an exciting time for the newly formed Jaguar Marketing Company as new initiatives and programming meant to encourage young students to pursue higher education are underway for 2016.
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FIRST Rec Sports Programming Recreational Sports provides more than social interaction among students. It also provides an outlet for fun exercise while promoting healthy competition. 2015 marked the beginning of A&M-San Antonio’s Recreational Sports Department, which encourages the lifelong pursuit of healthful living and learning. Our facilities and programs enhance the educational core of the University and the capacity for intellectual and emotional wellness. Three separate recreation facilities opened on the main campus in 2015: • The Jaguar Fitness Center • The Game Room and Lounge • The Den at Patriots’ Casa These facilities are available to all A&M-San Antonio students, who are also able to participate in organized activities such as intramural sports and sport clubs through
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the Recreational Sports Program. Intramural sports such as billiards, table tennis, wiffle ball, and video game tournaments are held on the main campus. Flag football, basketball, volleyball and larger team sports are held in partnership with Palo Alto College at their campus recreation center. Sport clubs are organized sporting events between A&M-San Antonio students and students from other universities and colleges. The competition is at a non-varsity level and students are responsible for organizing and governing of their respective teams. Currently the University has two recognized sport clubs: golf and cross country. As the department continues to grow with the University, more programming and events will be offered based on student feedback and national trends.
FIRST Grant from Latino Americans The University Library was selected to receive a competitive Latino Americans: 500 Years of History grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities and the American Library Association. The University Library partnered with faculty and San Antonio’s Northside ISD Gregorio Esparza Elementary to host a series of free public film screenings and other programming to help start a conversation about the important impact Latinos had in the South Texas region.
FIRST English Student Conference On November 6, 2015, the graduate program in English and the English Graduate Student Committee co-hosted its inaugural graduate and undergraduate conference. This debut event was organized and promoted by students with assistance from faculty adviser Dr. Katherine Gillen. Under the theme “Fragments of Identity in Popular Fiction and Film,” the conference consisted of six panels over the course of the day. Panels featured talks on a wide range of fascinating topics and diverse texts, including the enduring legacy of Chicana cultural theorist Gloria Anzaldúa, children’s and young adult literature, and different perspectives on Virginia Grise and Irma Mayorga’s The Panza Monologues. Presenters included undergraduate and graduate students from Texas A&M University-San Antonio as well as several other regional institutions.
Key significant components include the first formal documentation of the Eagle Bus Strike of 1980, which was part of a research article published in the Journal of Latino Studies. This work featured the artwork of Mexican immigrant worker Francisco Esparza, who led a successful strike through satirical drawings. Dr. Edith Esparza-Young, assistant professor of bilingual education and ESL, conducted research on her father’s art. The Handbook of Texas Online will be updated as a result of this research and grant. In partnership with Dr. Amy Porter and Dr. Francis Galan from the history program, the University Library held a public film screening and discussion of episode one, “Foreigners in Their Own Land (1565-1880)” from the award-winning PBS documentary series Latino Americans. Over 50 University faculty, students and community members attended the screening and discussion.
A keynote address was given by Dr. T. Jackie Cuevas entitled “Intersectionalities in the Post-Borderlands: Gender(s), Queer(s), and Latinidad(es).” The conference, a first for the English program, was a lively and intellectually stimulating showcase for undergraduate and graduate research. Student organizers look forward to the conference becoming an annual event at Texas A&M University-San Antonio.
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A VISION TO BE
AUDACIOUS
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ASPIRING
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College of Arts & Sciences
Bright
Spots FACULTY
Jenny Moore
This professional track assistant professor enjoys seeing the fruits of the students who labor in the Jaguar Student Media Center. As the director, her counsel and guidance moves students to perform ethically, collaboratively and creatively. She oversees daily operations of the award-winning Student Media Center, and some previous student successes include scholarships and national awards. Moore is also the Faculty Founder of the University’s Society of Professional Journalists chapter and the chair for the Student Media Board.
ALUMNI
Teresa Livengood
The knowledge and experience Livengood obtained as a student has proven to be valuable as an employee of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. While at the University, she participated in the President’s Circle Grant, focusing on the efficacy of protection orders for victims of domestic violence. This experience has proven to be an asset as she fulfills an important role for Child Protective Services.
STUDENT
Sean Z. Roberson
When it comes to his future, Roberson's is adding up to success. As a man who is all about the numbers, he is fueling his passion for mathematics in multiple ways. His adoration for the subject is obvious as an Armed Forces Communications Electronics Association (AFCEA) scholarship recipient, and his desire to share his knowledge is demonstrated as an advanced math tutor. As a graduate with a Bachelor of Science and a Teacher Certification, he plans to continue his education by attending the graduate program at Texas A&M University in College Station.
COLLEGE OF
ARTS &
SCIENCES Accolades Students within the College of Arts & Sciences are encouraged to represent the University in many competitions. Biology students often participate in the Intercollegiate Range and Wildlife Plant Identification Competition at the Texas Chapter of the Wildlife Society meeting and continuously place high among their peers. At the 2015 meeting, the A&M-San Antonio team placed third overall and first in their division. Communications students also pulled in top ranks at the 2015 Texas Intercollegiate Press Association. Our student reporters received 12 individual reporting awards for their work with our student newspaper, The Mesquite. History student Miguel Ramirez won the top prize at the 6th Annual Texas A&M History Conference for his paper on the Aztec Eagles in World War II. He also won third place in the Caldwell Prize competition of the Walter Prescott Webb Society. Another student, Jessica Ceeko, won second place in that same competition.
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Academic Departments
1,705
Student
Fall 2015 Enrollment
12 66
Degrees Programs
The College of Arts & Sciences had many proud moments and successes in 2015. One of the most recognized initiatives the college participated in is a mentoring program funded by the National Science Foundation. Biology faculty members mentored students from Alamo Colleges during the summer research program, which was designed to encourage under-represented students to enter STEM fields early in their college careers. Dr. Corinna Ross also began research mentorship with a Palo Alto College student as part of the CIMA program with the Alamo Colleges and guided the student in preparing a poster presentation for the CIMA-LSAMP Symposium on August 7. Dr. Brenda Rushing oversaw undergraduate research with a student from Palo Alto College through the Louis Stokes Minority Alliance NSF program at Alamo Colleges, including providing mentoring seminars to all A&M-San Antonio students in the program. Dr. Jose R. Barillas-Valadez mentored a student from the Alamo Colleges as part of the 2nd Annual CIMA-LSAMP program. The student presented a poster on her research titled "Habitat Preferences by Wildlife" in an urban area in South Bexar County Texas.
Faculty
Full Time/Part Time
47
College of Business 48
Bright
Spots FACULTY
Dr. Mark Huson
Information technology at the University won’t be the same with the creation of Dr. Huson’s Beowulf clusters. The technology, which clusters computers to form a parallel supercomputer, will be initially utilized by computer science students to explore parallel computing. The assistant professor’s vision is to use the Beowulf cluster to examine computer-intensive applications and to analyze large-volume data sets, known as big data.
ALUMNI
Tony Villarreal
Villarreal has proved that being in the right place at the right time can yield rewards. While attending classes at Texas A&M-San Antonio for his undergraduate degree and graduate degree, he participated in a variety of high profile events where he met influential people from the business community. Being a Top 50 student, he had been invited to H-E-B Night for three consecutive years. H-E-B personnel from its International Procurement Department sought him out, and in less than a month, he was being interviewed for a position. Now, Villarreal is traveling the world sourcing international foods and general merchandise items as the Export and Global Sourcing Manager for the H-E-B Mexico division.
STUDENT
David Marquez
The demands of serving as a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army aren't getting in the way of Marquez's pursuit of a degree and certification. Although he is on active duty, he is still able to attend class via the HyFlex model, which allows him to earn credits for his coursework while working a full-time job, all while earning a 4.0 GPA. Lt. Col. Marquez looks forward to completing his classes in preparation for the CPA exam, so when he is ready to retire from the military he will be well prepared for his second career as a civilian.
COLLEGE OF
BUSINESS Through the short time A&M-San Antonio has existed, the College of Business has not only made an impact on the City of San Antonio by producing some of the city’s promising professionals, but its prominence has been poised to travel the world in 2015. Texas A&M-San Antonio Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) donates 22,497 pounds of food to the San Antonio Food Bank.
Cyber Security and Information Technology While the College of Business is home to traditional business programs such as accounting, finance, management, and marketing, the College of Business is also home to the Center for Cyber Security and Information Technology. Through this center, College of Business students participate in cyber competitions such as the annual Panoply Capture the Flag competition. This October, a team of four students from A&M-San Antonio won second place. The team members were Ashton-Drake Giddings, Daniel Lopez, Luis Fuentes and Eddiberto Silvaz. Giddings, Lopez and Fuentes graduated from Harlandale High School, transferred to St. Philip's College to complete an A.A.S. degree and then transferred to A&M-San Antonio. Silvaz transferred to A&M-San Antonio from San Antonio College. They are all following our Affordable Degree plan that results in the completion of a BAAS-IT degree with an emphasis in cyber security. A&M-San Antonio students competed in the November 2015 UT-Dallas TexSAW Capture the Flag competition. Out of the more than 30 two-person teams who participated in the competition, A&M-San Antonio student teams placed in the top five, with Ashton-Drake Giddings and Daniel Lopez's team placing first and Julian Rios-Perez and Luis Angel Fuentes' team placing fourth.
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Academic Departments
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It all begins with the College of Business becoming part of The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). This is the first step needed on the road to becoming a nationally accredited business college. Only 5% of all Colleges and Schools of Business worldwide have earned this accreditation. The accreditation process is expected to take three-to-five years. In fall 2015, the College of Business launched its HyFlex MBA program that allows students to attend classes face-to-face as well as synchronously or asynchronously online (via Adobe Connect). Students can attend in any of the three formats for any class period for all classes. This provides maximum flexibility for students to accommodate busy work and family schedules. In 2015, the college’s Fire and Emergency Services Administration (FESA) program was approved by the Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) group as a recognized fire science program. This was the first four-year program in Texas awarded the distinction.
Degrees Programs
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Full Time/Part Time
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College of Education & Human Development
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Bright
Spots FACULTY
Dr. Sukho Lee
As an expert in exercise science, Dr. Lee reached major milestones in 2015. He was awarded $55,000 by the Korea Food Research Institute and he traveled to Seoul, Korea to speak at the International Congress on Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome. In addition, MEDIPULS Solution, a health care company, provided $20,000 in funding for Lee’s project, “Development of active ECG sensor with motion artifact and fake calorie removal algorithm based on multi-modal information.” Lee was also successful in co-authoring and publishing three articles, one book chapter of his works and has three manuscripts under review. Contributing to student advancement, he’s establishing laboratory components for all exercise science classes to enhance each student’s experience.
ALUMNI
Thomas Rux
Proud to come from a family of educators, Rux proved he’s got the right stuff. Being awarded First Year Educator of the Year 2014-2015 at Hobby Middle School in San Antonio, he is thankful for the education and support he received while at Texas A&M-San Antonio. He says having a degree has given him the confidence and knowledge necessary to excel in the field of education, and he aims to be an advocate for exceptional learners.
STUDENT
Suhgey O. Reyes
Bigger isn’t always better, according to Reyes. As a student, the University’s small, close-knit community, along with its attentive faculty, were key to Reyes’ success. Preferring smaller class sizes which enabled students to actively engage with others, Reyes came to enjoy learning even more since it felt more like a family environment for her. Earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with Teacher Certification in December 2015 was a dream come true, and she’s proud to have demonstrated to her daughters that anything is possible.
COLLEGE OF
Dr. Murakami, Dr. Pesqueira and principal candidates in Hermosillo, Sonoro, Mexico.
Training Successful Principals in Mexico Dr. Elizabeth Murakami, director of programs in Educational Leadership, joined with Dr. Norma Pesqueira, director of the Centro Regional de Formación Docente e Investigación Educativa del Estado de Sonora, to develop a partnership for the training of successful principals in Mexico. With Dean Eric Lopez's support, more than 30 school principals in Mexico received training through A&M-San Antonio in 2015. This center is Mexico’s educational regional center – much like San Antonio’s Region 20 – and this training is part of their administrative leadership master’s degree program. Dr. Juan Antonio Jasso, director of Superintendent Studies, is training the second group in a module entitled Modelos en Liderazgo. To further expand the knowledge about principals in high-need areas, Drs. Murakami, Kearney, and Weiland will be developing research with the principals from Mexico and others from around the Chihuahua region. Texas Governor Greg Abbott congratulates Dr. Debbie Vera, associate professor in the Department of Educator and Leadership Preparation, was inducted into the Texas A&M University System Chancellor's Academy of Teacher Educators on February 27 during the System's annual Chancellor's Century Council (CCC) meeting. The Academy recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of teacher education and highlights the role of the A&M System in producing K-12 teachers for the State of Texas.
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Academic Departments
1,393
Student
Fall 2015 Enrollment
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Degrees Programs
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Faculty
EDUCATION
& HUMAN DEVELOPMENT The College of Education and Human Development (COEHD) has exceptional educational programs that prepare practitioners who are “ready from day one.” This past year, the college further developed partnerships through several of the continuing collaborative programs, which included San Antonio Pre-Engineering Program (SAPREP), the School Leadership Consortium and Jaguar Camp. Also in 2015, the college signed a memorandum of understanding with AVANCE, a San Antonio-based nonprofit that supports at-risk families, to work on collaborative projects and Early Childhood faculty. The college also secured a partnership to train Head Start instructors through summer coursework and encourage the completion of master’s degrees. The counseling program began offering courses in the newly created Marriage and Family Counseling with Military Emphasis specialization. Four Early Childhood students and nine graduate students participated in a study abroad program in Spain. Students enrolled in reading coursework continued the Reading Program's partnership with SAREADS. Deborah Escalante, a master’s student in Special Education mentored by one of the Special Education faculty, won first place in the Texas A&M University System Student Research Symposium. In addition, another COEHD student, Thomas Rux, was recognized as San Antonio Northside ISD’s First Year Teacher of the Year.
Full Time/Part Time
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The University Library
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BY THE NUMBERS UNIVERSITY LIBRARY IN 2015
80,000 PATRONS
CHECKING OUT OVER
11,000 BOOKS LIBRARIANS AND STAFF
ANSWERED OVER
15,000 QUESTIONS IN PERSON OR
BY PHONE, E-MAIL OR LIVE CHAT
LIBRARY'S PHYSICAL COLLECTION REACHED
25,000
VOLUMES INCLUDING MAZAL HOLOCAUST COLLECTION
ELECTRONIC HOLDINGS INCLUDE
207 DATABASES
32K JOURNALS & NEWSPAPERS
2.5M E-BOOKS THE LIBRARY HELD OVER 500 EVENTS
UNIVERSITY
LIBRARY Student Technology and Academic Resources In August, the University Library faculty led the development of the Student Technology and Academic Resources (S.T.A.R.) Blackboard course with Academic Technologies and other academic support programs on campus. This new resource provided online academic support from the University Library, Academic Technologies, the Writing Center, Jaguar Tutoring, and the Student Academic Success Center. All students are automatically enrolled and have ongoing access to the tools throughout their career at A&M-San Antonio. With the introduction of S.T.A.R., the library changed the delivery method of the online Get S.M.A.R.T. workshops. These are now available directly through Blackboard, rather than through the library’s website. Certificates of completion are issued within Blackboard once students have achieved a 100% score on the course quiz. The library currently offers five Get S.M.A.R.T. workshops through Blackboard: Introduction to the Research Process; The Basics of APA Style; The Basics of the MLA Style; Avoiding Plagiarism: Giving Credit Where Credit is Due; and a new course debuting fall 2015, Introduction to Business Research. Over 3,600 of the 4,500 enrolled students accessed some portion of the STAR course!
The University Library is actively engaged in the teaching, research and public service activities of A&M-SA as well as provides research assistance and instruction, curriculum support, access to a wide variety of information resources, and facilities that foster independent study and collaborative engagement.
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Graduate Studies and Research
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SNAPSHOT, FALL 2015 GRADUATE STUDENT BODY
930 GRADUATE STUDENTS
26% FULL TIME 74% PART TIME
10 GRADUATE
PROGRAMS MASTER OF ARTS IN ENGLISH MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION MASTER OF PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTING MASTER OF EDUCATION IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
MASTER OF EDUCATION IN SPECIAL EDUCATION
MASTER OF ARTS IN BILINGUAL EDUCATION
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN BILINGUAL EDUCATION MASTER OF ARTS IN COUNSELING AND GUIDANCE
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN READING MASTER OF SCIENCE IN KINESIOLOGY
GRADUATE
STUDIES
& RESEARCH Assistant Professor in Bilingual/ESL Education Dr. Nancy Compean-Garcia and her husband Dr. Sam Garcia are with a student at the Student Research Symposium.
University Hosts Inaugural Symposium In the spring, more than 200 graduate and undergraduate students participated in the Inaugural Student Research Symposium, hosted by the Office of Graduate Studies and Research, the Office of Academic Affairs, in collaboration with the colleges and library. The first-time event on April 17-18 proved to be a valuable opportunity for participants to present their academic research to a live audience and showcase their findings in creative ways. Being a peer-to-peer event, students engaged attendees in oral presentations, poster presentations and panel discussions in which they conversed and considered the research findings. Topics ranged from “Soldaderas: The Role of Women During the Mexican Revolution” to “Pigments of Attraction.” The agenda also included a luncheon with University keynote speakers.
The Office of Graduate Studies and Research, in collaboration with administrators and faculty, is dedicated to student success in the classroom, at the workplace, and in the community. The objective of the ten graduate programs is to provide a path to excellence by ensuring that students are focused on their chosen field of study and that they have the opportunity to maximize their talents and become successful citizens of the community and beyond. Students involve themselves in research projects, experiencing the creation of new knowledge and enhancing their professional growth. Students learn to experiment and become critical thinkers through their research activities. They are transformed into experts in their disciplines, and as a consequence they are able to present their research findings at academic conferences and professional venues. Earning a graduate degree becomes a transforming learning experience that will benefit the student, the employer, and the community.
As part of the symposium, two workshops were offered to participating students, giving instruction and advice about selecting a graduate program, building successful applications and organizing resources. The outcome was overwhelming, and the event has been deemed an annual occurrence. Sixteen A&M-San Antonio students presented their research at the A&M System Pathways Student Research Symposium in Corpus Christi, October 22-23, and of the 500 competitors within the A&M system, two students from our campus were awarded second place in their individual competitions.
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A VISION TO BE
AUDACIOUS
AGILE AIMING
ASPIRING
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Texas A&M-San Antonio Foundation 66
Bright
Spots
Paving the Way for First-Generation Students
The Texas A&M University-San Antonio Foundation funds scholarships to help students in need. As a university that caters not only to all students, but also to first-generation students, the foundation has awarded more than $500,000 to A&M-San Antonio students. During the 2015 Dream Maker Luncheon, an event that honors stand-out community members and their contributions to higher education, four scholarship recipients were recognized for how the generosity of others helped them.
Angela Ruth Clark B.A. PSYCHOLOGY
“Thanks to the Foundation I’ve been inducted into Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society as well as the National Society of Leadership Success.”
Joe Reyes B.S. INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES
“The scholarship from the Foundation helped me because it gives me the motivation to keep going with my academics and keeps my focus there.”
Keeoshia Burks-Moore B.A. SOCIOLOGY, B.A. CRIMINOLOGY
“My family is poverty stricken and I’m going to college to make a difference and be a role model for all seven of my brothers and sisters. The Foundation scholarship has prepared me for success.”
TEXAS A&M-SAN ANTONIO
FOUNDATION “The Foundation has secured over $3 million and awarded scholarships to more than 5,000 well-deserving students.
Jesse Fuentes Single father Jesse Fuentes said he never really had the opportunity to go to college. Instead, he left high school and started working for a trucking firm south of Houston. But when his son David was small, Jesse moved back to his hometown of San Antonio for more opportunities. Today, Jesse is about to earn a bachelor’s degree in Information Technology with a focus on Enterprise Resource Management. From his classes to getting hands-on experience working with the IT Department on campus, he says he has learned a great deal from the experience. “I don’t want to be out of touch with what companies need these days. You have to look at the bigger picture and not limit yourself,” says Jesse about his next steps. But the next steps for his family look just as bright. “I’m the first person in my immediate family to go to college. My younger brother started a little after I did. My son will have more opportunities at a younger age.” In fact, his son David is already on track for college, and has already enrolled in a pre-college high school program. “For him to see it can be possible, that’s what I want him to understand,” says Jesse. “I think he sees the potential. I feel that he’s proud of me.” Jesse acknowledges that balancing school while taking care of his son has been demanding, but receiving a scholarship through the Texas A&M-San Antonio Foundation for his final year of college helped him with the financial burden. At A&M-San Antonio he says, “They really want to help you succeed in ways you wouldn’t have thought you could on your own. I wish I’d done it sooner. It’s been a really good situation and it’s close to home. I’m really grateful. “
The mission of the Texas A&M-San Antonio Foundation is to facilitate funding for Texas A&M University-San Antonio and to create a university that will empower our citizens with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide for a prosperous community. Established in 2008, the foundation is committed to helping provide financial resources to ensure the success and permanence of A&M-San Antonio. The foundation board operations are guided by the foundation by-laws and the affiliation agreement signed between the foundation and the University. The foundation is a 501(C)3 nonprofit organization registered with both the IRS and the Texas Secretary of State. Members of the board of directors are uncompensated volunteers committed to supporting A&M-San Antonio and its students. The current focus of the board is fundraising for scholarships and establishing endowments to create an ongoing source of scholarship funds. The foundation has secured over $3 million and awarded scholarships to more than 5,000 deserving students through its two annual fundraising venues: The Annual Dream Maker Scholarship Luncheon and the Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament.
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Philanthropist Bill Greehey Honored for his Support towards First-Generation Students with $1 Million Gift The A&M-San Antonio Dream Maker Award Luncheon, as the name implies, is about honoring those who make dreams come true. This year, an impressive number of friends and business leaders joined the A&M-SA Foundation to honor corporate executive and philanthropist Bill Greehey as the 2015 recipient of the Dream Maker Award. Greehey exudes compassion for others — you can see it in his eyes and you can hear it in his voice. When Greehey talks about his community projects, such as Haven for Hope and how it is dramatically changing the lives of the homeless and his genuine passion for educating our youth by providing much-needed scholarships to nearly every college and university in San Antonio, his benevolence is palpable! A&M-San Antonio is pleased to be among those honored by his generosity. The Greehey Family Foundation donated $1 million to support the First Generation Endowed Scholarship Fund, which coincides with A&M-San Antonio’s expansion to accept freshman and become a comprehensive four-year university. The gift is the first endowment the University received and serves as a testament to the Greehey Family Foundation’s commitment to higher education and support for first-generation college students. Dream Maker Honorary Luncheon Chair Bartell Zachry, Jr., introduced Greehey, former Valero CEO, who spoke passionately about his own plight as a first-generation student and his struggles to pay for college. He also spoke about giving back and how everyone has the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate. Providing scholarship opportunities from this endowment gift will increase the opportunities for those who may not be able to afford college tuition — one of the significant barriers for these students. It also further implants the A&M System’s excellence throughout the San Antonio region. The Dream Maker Award was established in 2010. It honors community members for their significant contributions to education and in making the dream of a higher education possible for thousands.
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FOUNDATION OFFICERS
FOUNDATION ENDOWMENTS
Evangelina G. Flores, Chair C. Clark Welder, Chair-Elect Mark Outlaw, Past Chair Danny Zimmerman, Secretary Derek E. Naiser, Treasurer
American Petroleum Institute Scholarship Endowment
FOUNDATION MEMBERS Dr. Roger S. Campos Cresencio Davila Raul B. Fernandez Alan Hepp Kirk D. Kistner Dr. Frank Madla III Derek E. Naiser Harold Oliver Amparo H. Ortiz Josue Reyes Frances Ortiz Schultschik Isaac Ayala Douglas H. Carter* Ida Clement “Weisie” Steen* Anthony White*
*Stepped Down in 2015
$419,000 was disbursed to A&M-SA students through the Foundation and its partnerships
2008 FOUNDATION FORMED
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Scholarships Created Endowments Created 3 Pre-Endowments
AT&T Scholarship Endowment Bartlett Cocke Scholarship Endowment Carter Endowment for International Studies Clare A. & Raymond A. Lackey Scholarship Endowment Defenders Society Scholarship Endowment Frank L. Madla, Jr. Scholarship Endowment Greehey Family Foundation First Generation Scholarship Endowment La Prensa Scholarship Endowment Real Estate Council of San Antonio Scholarship Endowment
FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS Alonso Ancira Scholarship American Petroleum Institute Scholarship Amigo Scholarship Armed Forces Communications Electronics Association Scholarship AT&T Scholarship Auxiliary of San Antonio TSCPA Scholarship Bunny Jean Raba Scholarship Creekmore Military Counseling Scholarship Creekmore Teacher STEM Scholarship H.O.P.E. Scholarship Holt Cat Scholarship Red McCombs PIE Scholarship Red McCombs PIE Veterans Scholarship San Antonio Hispanic Chamber Scholarship San Antonio Institute of Internal Auditors Scholarship San Antonio Livestock Exposition Scholarship Texas A&M University-San Antonio Foundation Scholarship Toyota Texas Teacher STEM Scholarship
President's Circle The Texas A&M-San Antonio President’s Circle plays a vital role in providing funds for specific presidential initiatives. Members are philanthropic leaders and corporations that believe in A&M-San Antonio and its mission. Gifts of the President’s Circle: • Provide immediate aid for students with extraordinary needs. • Support the President’s Research Grant Program, which is an annual $35,000 University-matching research grant to provide mini-grants for undergraduate research in all disciplines. • Underwrite new initiatives by the University President that enhance A&M-San Antonio’s Strategic Plan. • Advances economic development for the entire community.
PRESIDENT'S CIRCLE MEMBERS Ms. Kathleen Acock Mr. Jim Adams Dr. Mishaleen Allen Mr. Isaac Ayala Mrs. Carri Baker Wells Mr. & Mrs. Michael Bolner Mr. Doug Brown Ms. & Mr. Betsy Cameron Mr. Douglas Carter Dr. Gary Coulton Ms. Joyce Ellis Mr. & Dr. Raúl B. Fernandez Dr. María H. Ferrier Dr. Josephine S. Fey Mr. & Mrs. José Garcia Dr. & Mrs. Remigio L. Garcia Dr. Vivien L. Geneser Mr. Jim Goudge Dr. Carolyn Green Ms. Debra Guerrero Dr. James C. Hackard Mrs. Juana E. Hollin-Avery Ms. Lindsey Hollin Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Hoog
Dr. Tracy Hurley Mr. W.B. Kopper Ms. Carolyn Labatt Dr. Amy Lewis Dr. Eric Lopez Mr. Rey Madrigal Dr. Melissa Mahan Mr. & Mrs. Roy G. Martin Mr. Gregg D. McDonald Mr. Henry R. Muñoz, III Mr. Tony Pelletier Mr. Joe Peña Mr. William Raba Ms. Marilu Reyna Dr. & Mrs. Charles Rodríguez Ms. Sylvia Rodríguez Dr. & Mrs. Brent Snow Mr. Thomas Timmer Mr. Mario A. Vazquez Mr. Manuel Villa Dr. Velma Villegas Dr. & Mrs. Edward Westermann Mr. & Mrs. H.B. Zachry, Jr.
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Military Embracing
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Bright
Spots ALUMNI
Ireshekia Henry
Henry has two honors that are distinct and honorary. The first being a graduate of A&M-SA and the other as a Purple Heart recipient. Following her service in the U.S. Army, she was set on graduate school. It was important to her to continue her education, and she praises her professors for the help they offered. The instruction exceeded her expectations, and she hopes to pursue a career with the Veteran’s Administration now that she has earned a M.B.A. with a concentration in Human Resources. As a veteran herself, she has a comprehensive understanding of military life, having served in Baghdad, Iraq for job which earned her the Purple Heart.
ALUMNI
Eddie Ybarra
Ybarra is a distinguished veteran and alumnus of A&M-SA. His stellar service in the U.S. military began with the first Gulf War. He proudly worked in the field for many years, sustaining injuries from multiple tours. His natural drive and persistence was instrumental in his academic achievement: a Bachelor of Applied Arts & Science in Psychology.
ALUMNI
John Zamora
Before attending Texas A&M San Antonio, Zamora spent three years in the Army, including 10 months in Afghanistan. Becoming a part of the A&M family was something he’d always wanted and the smaller classes and welcoming atmosphere were just what he was looking for in a university. The Harlandale High School graduate adapted well to his new university — so well in fact he graduated Summa Cum Laude in May 2015 and was commissioned as a second lieutenant. He’s been assigned to the Army’s engineering program and will do his specialized training in Missouri. He credits the ROTC program with preparing him to be a good military leader.
MILITARY EMBRACING A&M-San Antonio strives to provide the best resources to our military community students and their families.
Portraits of Patriots It’s estimated only 200 Tuskegee Airmen are living today, six of whom reside in San Antonio. Their military feats in World War II were immortalized in the Hollywood movie “Redtails” and the heroism of these African-American pilots, bombardiers, navigators, maintenance crews and instructors opened the door to integration of the U.S. military. To honor these heroes of the skies, The Patriots’ Casa, along with The Salvation Army and Wayne Wright Law Firm, held “Portraits of Patriots,” on Tuesday, November 2, 2015. Two of San Antonio’s six Tuskegee Airmen - Dr. Granville Coggs and Mr. Theodore Johnson - were presented with portraits painted by artists from The Salvation Army. President Matson welcomed guests to the Patriots’ Casa and was one of the presenters of the portraits. Located in Military City USA, A&M-SA serves as one of San Antonio’s leading institutions for military students and prides itself as a military embracing university.
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Active Duty Enrolled
Tuition Assistance
ROTC Students Fall 2015
Military Graduates Fall 2015
BEST SCHOOL
MILITARY
FOR VETERANS
FRIENDLY
A&M-SA is proud to be designated as the only Purple Heart University in San Antonio, honoring veterans and recipients of the Purple Heart Medal. Patriots’ Casa, our “Academic Home for the Brave,” a unique, nationally recognized facility on the Main Campus that sets A&M-SA apart as not only a military friendly university, but a Military Embracing one. Mr. Juan Garcia, Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Manpower and Reserve Affairs (M&RA), made a surprise visit to the Patriots’ Casa while on a business trip to San Antonio. The Assistant Secretary was impressed with the University’s military services/programs for veteran students and the military embracing culture embedded in the University’s community.
TOP 50 UNIVERSITY 6 YEARS IN A ROW BY MILITARY TIMES BY VICTORY MEDIA
A&M-SA IS A TOP SCHOOL BY MILITARY ADVANCED EDUCATION & TRANSITION 75
A VISION TO BE
AUDACIOUS
AGILE AIMING
ASPIRING
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A&M-SA students show their support for the University’s television commercial which was produced with a drone.
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Class Ring The A&M-San Antonio class ring is a representation of a student’s hard work, success and devotion to the University. When graduation rapidly approaches, a series of pageantries are conducted that rise to the culmination of years of effort and sacrifice. It’s a tradition that can be traced back to the ancient Egyptians – when the ring signified individual identity or group affiliation. The class ring is also an outward sign to those who influence the student – such as family, neighbors, and friends. It can serve as an inspiration to those who might be thinking that they could never achieve this kind of success. A student must wear their ring with pride as it serves as a reminder of the bonds forged with classmates and professors. These relationships will always be part of who they are and who they are yet to become. During the annual ring ceremony, a graduate and their chosen delegate surround the University’s seal. The delegate places the University ring upon the graduate’s finger with the front facing the palm for the graduate to see. At graduation, the president gives an order to the graduates to turn their rings to face outward for the world to see.
On April 2, 2015, the annual ring ceremony celebrated 92 students in their quest of graduation. Nearly 600 family and friends expressed their support and served as witnesses as their loved ones crossed over from a student of A&M-San Antonio to a soon-to-be graduate of A&M-San Antonio. That day, seven of those students were recognized as Ring Scholars.
3 4
Fall 2015 Ring Scholars
IN THE COMMUNITY
Monica Cuellar-Flores Brian Harrin Desirae Garza
Spring 2015 Ring Scholars Hector Soto Pamela Harper Ariel Schroeder David Akpata
NEARLY 600
FAMILY &
FRIENDS ATTENDED
92 STUDENTS RECEIVED
RINGS
A&M-SA North Texas A&M-San Antonio is proud to offer an impressive list of options for students to take classes. Not only through the advances in technology that allow options like online and HyFlex schedules, but also through our city-wide footprint of locations where we offer classes. The Alamo University Center (AUC), located in the northeast sector of San Antonio, a stone’s throw away from Randolph Air Force Base and Northeast Lakeview is one of those choices. We call it A&M-SA North. Developed by the Alamo Colleges as a one-stop center of higher education, Texas A&M-San Antonio partnered with the AUC to offer complete programs in Criminology, Cyber Security, the MBA and certifications in Spanish language offered by the esteemed Cervantes Institute. Students who enroll at A&M-San Antonio have the option to make the A&M-SA North their campus of choice without traveling to Main University campus for classes, providing an option that allows students to take control of their most precious commodity—time.
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University Hosts Lip Sync Battle for SECC Faculty and staff took their competitiveness up a notch—this time for a great cause. The A&M-San Antonio State Employee Charitable Campaign Committee (SECC) hosted the University’s first lip sync battle. Participants strutted their stuff across the Main Campus’ auditorium and lip synced to their favorite songs. Within a month, the committee was able to exceed last year’s fundraising goals. All funds will go toward the campaign, which enables all state employees to donate to their favorite charity.
$19,169
DOLLARS RAISED 26% INCREASE FROM 2014
57% PARTICIPATION 19% INCREASE FROM 2014
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Texas A&M-San Antonio: Changing the Landscape of San Antonio by The Honorable Henry Cisneros, Former United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development & Mayor of San Antonio In 1863, the Congress of the United States passed legislation to set up the land grant colleges, whose purpose it was to build America. To build the dams, the roads, the schools, the power stations, and the agricultural system that would build the nation from the Civil War forward. No institution in America has played that role better in its own state than Texas A&M, and it’s certainly one of the best in the country. Right there with the Michigan State and Nebraska universities – all those institutions that help build the country roads, the building up of the petroleum sector – Texas A&M-San Antonio is a leading industry in the state. Industries, business, agriculture, providing leadership for the military. More generals produced than any institution but West Point for the American military – in every sector of civic service, A&M has played that role. And today with advent of President Matson coming online, A&M steps up to play its 21st-century role in water, in technology, and cyber security and locates its campus in the largest city in Texas in which A&M has a campus. So today, Dr. Matson’s advancement to the presidency is a win for a great institution that
has touched not just the lives of those who attended there, but, through its agricultural extension systems and its engineering extensions system, touched the lives of every Texan and indeed made a mark on our country. Secondly, it’s a win for San Antonio. One of the fastest-growing cities in the United States needs the very best in education, and particularly, technological education. So this campus’ role in the biosciences, cyber security, supportive of our aerospace complex at Port San Antonio, of our technology complex just a mile from here at the Toyota Plant. The largest footprint of an automotive company in the world right here is gonna be a tremendous interaction. It is a win for San Antonio, and particularly as the council persons have said, for the southern sector of San Antonio, which deserves the best as you link up Texas A&M with Palo Alto, with Port San Antonio, with Brooks City Base, with Toyota. We’re talking about a new day for the southern sector of San Antonio. It’s a win.
And finally it’s a win for people who believe in the human spirit of advancement and progress. If we invest in people just as the Congress did in 1863 when they said “We have to build universities to develop the people who are gonna build the country.” That spirit exists today and is exemplified in the life and times of Dr. Cynthia TenienteMatson – as Councilman Saldana said, “A daughter of the South Side born just a few miles from here, raised in the schools. A lifetime that takes her to the rigors of the cold of Alaska and the tough challenges of the central valley of California but at this point in her career she’s back here in San Antonio at Texas A&M. Today is truly a win-win day; we congratulate her; wish her well; and all of us by our presence say we stand with you in building a great institution in a great city. Thank you very much.
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Univision Celebrates 60 Years of Excellence with A&M-SA Almost 60 years to the day KCOR-TV (now KWEX) first took to the air-waves, Univision 41 San Antonio rejoices in its history with a 60-year Anniversary Celebration at A&M-San Antonio’s Centro de Artes in the heart of San Antonio’s historic Zona Cultural, home to Univision’s downtown studio. Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson, president of A&M-San Antonio, was invited to speak at the ceremony celebrating Univision’s 60th anniversary. President Matson was flanked by community leaders, elected officials and some of Univision’s most popular on-air personalities, including Carlos Calderon, co-host of Sal y Pimienta (Salt and Pepper); Maria Antonieta Collins, senior correspondent of Noticiero Univision; Tony Dandrades, reporter of Primer Impacto (First Impact); Lili Estefan, co-host of El Gordo y La Flaca
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(The Scoop and The Skinny); Arantxa Loizaga, news anchor of the weekend evening edition of Noticiero Univision; and co-host Alan Tacher and reporter Orlando Segura of Despierta América (Wake Up America). It was most fitting that Univision 41’s downtown studio served as the backdrop for this momentous occasion. This innovative and exciting project began taking shape in 2013 as the station prepared to move from its beloved studio headquarters building on Durango Boulevard and away from the city’s center. They knew it was important to maintain a presence in El Centro, where it all began. With this in mind, they built a stateof-the art studio in this historic corner of downtown San Antonio on the periphery of Market Square—the second most visited site in San Antonio, second only to the Alamo.
The building’s huge picture windows allow the studio’s camera lenses to capture the people of San Antonio in this unique and popular spot where locals and tourists flock daily. Univision 41’s downtown facility is a one-ofa-kind studio that was developed with A&M-San Antonio students in mind. It serves as an unconventional classroom for students in the journalism program, giving them a first-hand look at behind the scenes production, writing, producing and directing under the watchful eye of an experienced newscaster/reporter who serves as their instructor. Developed in conjunction with Communications Program Director Jenny Moore, the partnership has proven to be an incomparable experience for our students— one that allows them to stand out above the rest in this exceptionally competitive market.
American Sunrise The College of Education & Human Development partnership with local non-profit, American Sunrise, has been intentionally and methodically changing the lives of its young participants through Jaguar Camp since 2010. It has also proven to be rich training ground for graduate education students who round-out their study of teaching with this hands-on summertime experience.
Staff Council Continues its Connection with San Antonio The University's Staff Council participated in their annual turkey and holiday food drives to benefit needy families. This year the council sponsored 40 turkey baskets and collected 331 pounds of food from faculty and staff that was delivered to the San Antonio Food Bank. Harlandale ISD’s Gillette Elementary, South San ISD’s Kazen Middle School and Southwest ISD’s Spicewood Elementary received turkey baskets from the staff council. Ten A&M-San Antonio students also benefited from the staff council's generosity. They received holiday turkey meals to enjoy with their families.
Dr. Mishaleen Allen engaged with Henry and Mary Alice Cisneros to establish a community educational program that would tackle challenges facing some of the state’s poorest and underserved children living in San Antonio’s West Side, District 1. Jaguar Camp is based out of the Cisneros family home on the West Side, and has even expanded to a home across the street to handle the demand. Jaguar Camp uses a two-pronged model that has evolved over the years. Dr. Shelley Harris, who oversees the program, says it is a model that many have asked to duplicate. Pairing academic rigor with confidence-building life skills, the Jaguar Camp emphasizes making learning fun while involving a student’s family and learning about their community. The children learn to use the bus system to visit local museums, libraries and more to meet people in occupations they study. Around 10-20 graduate students guide 60 campers on their experiential learning journey. The graduate students work with faculty to study how the children’s academic skills improve, and have published numerous scholarly articles outlining the formula and principles for a successful program. Without a doubt, this program has seen and will continue to produce some of the best prepared teachers to come out of the University’s Graduate Education Certification Program.
We are always hoping that we exceed in the amount we collect from the year before. We mainly rely on staff's generosity." - Sylvia Medel, Staff Council President
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Festival de Cascarones
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Cries of “Viva Fiesta!” echoed across the A&M-San Antonio campus as Fiesta Commission President Fernando Reyes declared Festival de Cascarones an official Fiesta event on Sunday, April 26. Dr. Matson accepted the official Fiesta flag as First Lady of Fiesta Norma Reyes and Miss Fiesta San Antonio® 2015 Alixzandra Pena joined the campus community in celebrating.
Dr. Matson hosted a special event to celebrate her first 100 days as president in the Vista Room, offering Fiesta royalty, donors and dignitaries a unique bird’s-eye view of the festival grounds. A special commemorative medal was created to honor the occasion, featuring a “salute to education” with a mortar board, diploma and even her favorite high heeled shoes!
Nearly 5,000 people turned out to join in the fun at the “Fiesta finale’s” fourth year, and enjoyed live performances by The Spazmatics and Mario Flores & The Soda Creek Band as well as music provided by DJ TONYC.
A&M-San Antonio also hosted a prestigious “Fiesta: San Antonio Style” at the Texas State Capitol Building in Austin. Dignitaries from City of San Antonio, Bexar County as well as the State of Texas were in attendance.
Tradition continued as student groups, local school groups and community non-profits whipped up tasty treats and Fiesta fun at over 40 food and game booths. The Fiesta Kids Fun Zone and the U.S. Army wall climbing rock remained favorite hits as creating a family-friendly and military-embracing environment remains central to this growing event.
Grounded in the rich heritage of the South Side and with an audacious future before it, the Festival de Cascarones is set to join the tradition and create new memories. Viva Fiesta and Viva Texas A&M-San Antonio!
Cervantes Institute Created by the Spanish Government nearly a quarter of a century ago, the Cervantes Institute, whose existence and esteemed reputation is known across the globe, now has a home in San Antonio, Texas: A&M University-San Antonio to be exact. Touted as one of the largest organizations in the world responsible for promoting the study and the teaching of the Spanish language and culture, the Cervantes Institute was a welcome addition to our state, which once flew under the Spanish flag. At Texas A&M-San Antonio, the Cervantes programs were designed to help meet the needs of students and faculty, as well as members of the community who wanted to learn and/or perfect their Spanishspeaking skills. While the Institute is located in an impressive 20 countries around the world, before locating to San Antonio, the only other locations in the U.S. were in Boston, Chicago, New York, New Mexico and Seattle, Washington. Classes are taught at the University’s Main Campus, the A&M-SA North Campus located at the Alamo University Center, and, for our friends in downtown San Antonio, the Centro de Artes in Market Square also provides classroom space. Various levels are offered, from beginner courses to master level courses for those with proficiency, but looking to continue to learn and improve. Instructors come to us directly from Spain and engage in a variety of activities that promote the Spanish culture, art, food, wine and traditions of Spain. With 500 years of history to share, there is always something new to learn, from the Golden Age of Spain to the accession of King Juan Carlos I. Viva La Espaùa!
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Centro de Artes: Part of Cultural Zone Larger-than-life paintings with brown faces and familiar places that warm your heart and trigger emotions about love and family graced the walls of the Centro de Artes for the first exhibition of 2015 at the University’s Cultural and Educational Center located in the historic Market Square, formally recognized as an official cultural zone by the Texas Commission on the Arts. The unique district's mission is to support, develop and link dynamic clusters with historical, cultural and entertainment experiences authentic to San Antonio. The A&M-SA’s Centro de Artes is honored to be an anchor in this amazing endeavor! On January 29 the works of renowned artists Santa Barraza and Carmen Lomas Garza opened for the Borderlands: Arte y Tradición de La Frontera exhibition. Both from the Texas area, the gateway to the Rio Grande Valley and the South Texas border with Mexico, these two contemporary South Texas artists infuse their art with imagery that evokes a true sense of culture reflecting their Mexican American heritage. At the opening reception, Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson, only two weeks as president of A&M-San Antonio stated, “this is a world-class exhibit and is truly a cultural homecoming.” In the spring the Centro de Artes welcomed San Antonio-based artist collective, Art to the Third Power—Texas Size Breach Collaborative: From El Paso to San Antonio, a group project featuring local talent creating large-prints that started in El Paso, Texas and found their way to San Antonio with print-making taking place in locations along the way.
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Thousands of tourists and locals alike found their way to the Centro de Artes during the blazing summer months to gaze at the works of acclaimed artist Mel Casas who passed away in late 2014. The exhibition, Mel Casas: The Southwestern Cliches 1982-1989 was curated by his longtime friend, author and art historian Dr. Ruben Cordova. Like Mel Casas himself, his works were intense and included an array of painting techniques that were both unique and intriguing, including the use of chopsticks and squeeze bottles. Like his personality, the works were large and compelling. As a maestro of art in the San Antonio region the exhibition also included an education component that featured former students and local scholars as part of panel discussions that spanned the length of the exhibition. In what can be described of a culmination of all of the above—art, culture, tradition and partnership—and, in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Centro de Artes welcomed Verónica Castillo and Kathy Sosa for an amazing two-woman show, Trees of Life: Cultural, Tradición e Innovación. Verónica Castillo is a master whose impressive ancestral lineage (such as her father Don Alfonso Castillo Orta) created these masterpieces for centuries in Mexico. Kathy Sosa’s contemporary version of the Tree of Life on canvas were inspired by historic works and her love for Mexico’s art and culture. From the smallest butterfly ceramic created and painted by hand with exquisite intricate detail by Castillo to Sosa’s giant one dimension canvases that reveal the trees in bold and vibrant colors with the same mesmerizing
detail and intricacy, visitors were left breathless as the exhibition truly captured the spirit of the beloved Arbol de Vida. “The exhibitions at the Centro de Artes are for the students, people of San Antonio and tourists from near and far to enjoy and relish in. We are here to educate and tell a story and every person that walks through the doors of the amazing Centro de Artes should be touched to their core. In partnership with the City of San Antonio, Texas A&M-San Antonio will continue to touch the hearts and minds of those who visit the Centro de Artes,” stated Matson.
Budget Sources and Uses
1% Investment Income 9.6% Scholarships & Fellowships
28.6% Operations & Maintenance 37% State Appropriations
36% Tuition & Fees
2.4% Utilities 12% Transfers 8.9% Payroll Related Costs
23% Other Revenues
38.5% Salaries & Wages 1% Sales & Service 2% Contract Grants & Gifts
FY Budget Sources
State Appropriations Investment Income Tuition & Fees Sales & Service Contracts Grants & Gifts Other Revenues & Transfers
Total
FY Budget Uses $ 20,890,068 $ 788,458 $ 20,584,387 $ 663,559 $ 874,106 $ 12,681,201
Operations & Maintenance Scholarships & Fellowships Utilities Payroll Related Costs Salaries & Wages Transfers
$ 56,481,779
Total
$ 16,163,863 $ 5,443,216 $ 1,349,443 $ 5,037,424 $ 21,735,461 $ 6,752,372 $
56,481,779
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Planning for milestones, staying flexible and listening to community are all themes of the planning process for the next phase of growth at A&M-San Antonio, which will be marked by the addition of new campus buildings that open doors to exciting opportunities. An educational facility, featuring space for classrooms in the STEM fields, education and more, has been funded by $63 million in Tuition Revenue Bonds and will expand the campus's teaching and learning environment. It also brings the University one step closer to consolidating to a single campus. With significant growth comes significant planning, and in January 2016, campus leaders and constituents will come together with planning consultants from VisSpiro to undertake important revisions to the University’s Master Plan. The updates are based on enrollment growth to-date, current plans for comprehensive expansion to offer classes to freshmen/ sophomores and the next phase of construction. Multiple campus meetings are scheduled to collect data, invite feedback and review plans. Together, these next steps will shape the future of the campus community, additional academic programs, and strategic goals that will impact the next 15-20 years of A&M-San Antonio’s future.
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BEST DAYS ARE
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One University Way San Antonio, TX 78224 www.tamusa.edu