Division of Student Affairs 2014-15The University of Texas at San Antonio

The Student Experience

Birds Up at the CapitolStudent leaders, staff and alumni

traveled to Austin for UTSA Day at the

Capitol, an opportunity to interact with

political leaders as they developed state

laws and policy.

4

No

w &

Forev

er 20

14-2

015

5

UT

SA

Stu

den

t Aff

airs

14REACH As Student Affairs professionals, we know that students learn outside the classroom through intentional, student-centered programs and services, in addition to learning inside the classroom.

Collection of various Student Affairs activities over the past year ranging from abbreviated stories, statistical insights, program features, event recaps and recognition highlights.

Compilation of various posts archived via Student Affairs social networks in the past year.

Direct quotes and written entries from students.

06

22

24

Sam’s Note Now and Forever is a phrase which represents the spirit of UTSA and what it means to be a Roadrunner. We are committed to creating programs and services which have a lasting impact on our students. Student Affairs is an important part of the college experience and our profession is constantly evolving. We respond to new challenges and must be intentional and transform our services accordingly. Change is inevitable, constant and sometimes difficult, but our students are worth it….every time.

Together we communicate, collaborate, connect and create excellence for our colleagues, for our students and for the future of UTSA. It is not just a series of tasks, but an act of collective purpose. For example, our REACH model articulates what we want students to learn as a result of participating in Student Affairs’ programs and services. I hope you enjoy highlights of how this model is integrated across the division.

We have also invested in ourselves, which benefits our students. Participants and presenters from UTSA Student Affairs, other divisions and universities throughout San Antonio and

surrounding areas came together for the 7th Annual Student Affairs Conference. It is a great example of our commitment to professional growth and learning. As the theme “Grow More to Give More” suggests, when we grow more, we can give more…to students, the campus community and each other.

This year was full of milestones for our division. For example, this year’s student recruitment and enrollment was the best ever with one of the largest incoming freshman classes. We embraced a new philosophy of social media

engagement and strategic communications with a focus on student success. The reality is social media has changed the way we do business, serve students, receive feedback and advertise. We are at the forefront of this dialogue.

True to our campus culture, we took the time to celebrate our accomplishments and we are happy to share them here. Celebrations are important to a community. They serve to bring us together and provide the opportunity to review our success and plan for the future.

We are appreciative of the past year’s successes and lessons. We’ve recruited, we’ve danced, we’ve laughed, we’ve cheered, we’ve broken a few cascarones, we’ve worked hard and we’ve had a lot of fun along the way. Let me also say that I am grateful for you. Your dedication to Student Affairs and your support for our students contribute to their ability to achieve their dreams.

Best wishes,

Samuel M. GonzalesVice President for Student Affairs

REVIEW

HEARSAY

NETWORKS

DEPARTMENTSAthletics

Campus Recreation

Child Development Center

Counseling Services

Enrollment Services

Financial Aid

Housing and Residence Life

Office of the Registrar

Orientation and Family Programs

Special Events Center

Student Activities

Student Center for Community Engagement and Inclusion

Student Conduct and Community Standards

Student Disability Services

Student Health Services

Student Leadership Center

Undergraduate Admissions

University Career Center

University Center

TEAMS Assessment Leadership Team

Awards and Recognition Team

Education Team

Social Media Team

Staff Connections Team

Staff Development Team

Student Affairs Council Planning Team

True Colors Team

Writing Team

LEADERSHIPSam GonzalesVice President for Student Affairs

Lisa BlazerSenior Associate Vice President for Student Affairs - Enrollment Services

Joe DeCristoforoAssociate Vice President and University Registrar

Lynn HickeyAssociate Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics

George NortonAssociate Vice President for Undergraduate Admissions, Orientation and Family Programs

Kevin PriceSenior Associate Vice President for Student Affairs - Student Life and Dean of Students

Beth WichmanAssociate Vice President for Student Services

NOW & FOREVER CREDITSWRITERS

Andrew Chadick, Erika Cox, Christina Leeth, Pat Marcus, Kasey Neece-Fielder, Elisha Reynolds, Laura Rivas, Beverly Woodson-Day

EDITORS

Carol Gonzalez, Renee Hopkins, Andra Kiser, Jan McKinney, Bob Miller

DESIGN

Kristina Leh Garza

UTSA’S DIVISION OF STUDENT AFFAIRS

MISSIONThe Division of Student Affairs serves the university by providing purposeful, student-centered programs and services, creating opportunities that facilitate the holistic development of students and developing a culture of engagement in the classroom, across campus and throughout the global community.

VISIONThe Division of Student Affairs will be a leader in the development of a dynamic and diverse culture that facilitates learning and engages students.

CORE VALUESWe value the dignity of the individual.

We embrace, through respect and celebration, the diversity of people and thought.

We value the power of education as a catalyst for transforming individuals and society.

We believe that risk and challenge promote growth and excellence.

We value an innovative, service-oriented work environment that promotes mutual respect, integrity, professionalism, and teamwork.

FOUR C’SThe Four C’s is a conceptual model that ties the strategic vision developed by Student Affairs staff into realistic steps that provide a pathway to build excellence in all departments.- Communicate - Connect- Collaborate - Create

REACHIn a strategic effort to promote student learning and engagement inside and outside of the classroom, divisional learning goals were developed to guide department efforts, focusing on: - Responsibility- Engaged Citizenship- Active Leadership- Critical Thinking- Healthy and Balanced Living.

Sam with Darius Brown during Rowdy Rally on October 3, 2014.

VIEW “NOW & FOREVER” ONLINE utsa.edu/students/annualreport

FRONT COVER: Carl WillisBACK COVER: Isabella Beltri

In side

6

No

w &

Forev

er 20

14-2

015

7

UT

SA

Stu

den

t Aff

airs

A SuccessfulEnvironmentAs the Student Affairs Division, we are deeply invested in creating an environment where students succeed and excel. The same goes for the staff who serve those students - there are numerous opportunities for staff to excel and grow.

Yearly Student Affairs conferences are staff-led opportunities with speakers from on and off-campus. This year’s theme, “Grow More to Give More”, gave Student Affairs staff the opportunity to engage in presentations, network, and develop a wide range of personal and professional skills and knowledge.

Each year, Student Affairs staff participate in a university-wide program, Leadership UTSA, which

builds upon the knowledge of current and potential leaders. Through day-long workshops, a mentorship program and outside readings, participants are exposed to leadership theory and use the skills they gain to become dedicated leaders at UTSA.

This year, Student Affairs council meetings focused on ten professional competencies (Advising and Helping; Assessment, Evaluation, and Research; Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion; Ethical Professional Practice; History, Philosophy, and Values; Human and Organizational Resources; Law, Policy, and Governance; Leadership; Personal Foundations; and Student Learning and Development) as defined by our national student affairs organization during council meetings. The purpose of integrating the competencies into the council meetings was to define and grow professional knowledge, skills and attitudes of student affairs professionals. This in turn provided an opportunity for collaboration amongst offices and departments. As staff, opportunities for

growth go beyond UTSA. Small Staff Success Groups are being used in the

Office of the Registrar to encourage inter-department communication and provide new opportunities for leadership and staff collaboration. Increased collaboration among staff directly benefits the student experience by yielding staff who understand how to creatively work together for a common goal – student success.

Counseling Services has taken a proactive role in ensuring their staff receive continuing education while also providing a service to other mental health professionals at UTSA and in the San Antonio community. Making continuing education part of the department’s strategic plan, Counseling Services created an internal committee that plans and implements staff trainings, including regionally and nationally recognized speakers. Some of these presentations are made available to UTSA staff and faculty and to community organizations free of charge. These sessions provide continuing education units for psychologists, psychiatrists, and social workers. In the last year, Counseling Services has provided 27 unique continuing education opportunities to clinic staff that ranged from one to four days, with some occurring on campus, while others were off campus or out of town.

Each year, staff are nominated to participate in the Mid Managers Institute (MMI) and the New Professionals Institute (NPI) hosted by Southern Association for College Student Affairs. They are professional development opportunities for mid-level managers and new student affairs professionals respectively which incorporate learning, sharing, networking, and professional and personal development.

This year, admission counselor Brandon Cruz represented UTSA at NPI and attests to an amazing experience. He states: “The New Professionals Institute was transformative and unlike any other developmental experience I have participated in. We discussed those difficult, hard to deal with questions about identity, race, culture and how to serve our students while advocating for the mission of the university. This experience challenged me to be a stronger leader, mentor, team player and Student Affairs practitioner. It is important to understand your role and where you fit in the grand scale of Student Affairs and this institute gave me that and so much more.”

EVENT

Homecoming HighlightsUTSA celebrated its annual Homecoming Week with a

slate of free, public events promoting UTSA traditions.

The 2014 theme was “Turn the Page.”

National Night Out The UTSA Police Department hosted its fifth annual

National Night Out which included free food, beverages,

information booths, a live band, a kids corner and

donation drive of new and gently used books.

Roadrunners Live In its fourth year, Student Activities hosted its annual

campus-wide talent show.

Comedy Night UTSA Housing and Residence Life, the UTSA Black

Student Union, and University Center Programs

hosted a special comedy show by YouTube sensation

Dormtainment.

Rowdy Rally The tradition continued when the UTSA community

gathered at the Paseo to give a spirited team send-off

as the Roadrunner football players loaded the buses

for the game downtown.

BestFest BestFest celebrated its 26th year and relocated

outside the University Convocation Center. The event

was expanded and made into a more family-centered

event featuring a mini carnival.

Rowdy Rampage In its ninth year, Rowdy Rampage combined the

annual golf cart parade and fireworks show to create

one spectacular spirit rally.

Homecoming Game Day A full day of festivities marked the Roadrunners’ big

game against Florida International University.

Students supported from Student Disability Services

Clinical visits at Student Health Services

Students visited the University Career Center

Visits to the Campus Recreation and Wellness Center

800 4,761 5,211 479,325

Best Fest held on October 10, 2014.

The 7th Annual Student Affairs Conference on March 6, 2015.

Re view

8

No

w &

Forev

er 20

14-2

015

9

UT

SA

Stu

den

t Aff

airs

25 Years of AmbassadorsThe UTSA Ambassadors celebrated 25 years of service to the university community. You have probably seen them in their khaki slacks or skirts and navy blazers, guiding campus tours for prospective students and their families or ushering at Commencement ceremonies and other events.

With 70 students serving and 17 in training each year, the selected student leaders provide a variety of services for administration, faculty, staff and visitors. As a group, they volunteer more than 10,000 hours annually. Students selected for Ambassadors membership engage in a year-long, comprehensive training program including workshops on leadership, communication skills, etiquette, committee work and philanthropy.

The group was established in 1988 by President James Wagener, beginning with 13 students based

in the Office of the Registrar. Since no students lived on campus then, there were minimal activities and events, so the Ambassadors spent most of their time doing filing.

In 1990, Bobbie Walker, the vice president for student affairs, had an idea to help the program mature. She asked President Samuel Kirkpatrick if the Ambassadors could be moved to Student Affairs, and he agreed. Walker then convinced Pat Graham, who at the time, was director of testing services, to be the advisor for the sponsored student organization, assemble a staff and advisory board, and develop the Ambassadors into what they are today.

“We knew that Ambassadors programs existed around the country, so we talked to people at 20 universities,” said Graham, now the executive director of the Special Events Center and Ambassadors leader. “Some of their programs had existed for 60 years, so we wanted to draw on their expertise and create something that was right for UTSA. It became an enduring program that gives our students skills that benefit them for life. Their work centers on three key words that we emphasize—service, leadership and integrity—and they never forget it.”

Since Graham inherited the program, she has been seen as a revered mother figure with whom many Ambassadors alumni keep in touch. Of the 1,000 who have gone through the program, nearly 300 still are in contact. She hears from recent graduates, but also students from 20 and 25 years ago, who report how she and the program have influenced their lives.

“I get a lot of joy being president at UTSA and getting to know top students like the Ambassadors,” said UTSA President Ricardo Romo. “It’s the top students, faculty and staff like this who keep UTSA moving up toward Tier One status.”

“We have such a wonderful group year after year after year,” said Graham. “The Ambassadors really are the face of UTSA. It’s a blessing to me. I have a wonderful job, and my reward is in their success and that I have made a difference.”

excerpt republished from UTSA Today on 11/6/2014

57% Phone

30% In-Person

9% Outreach

4% E-mail

EVENT

Study CentralLast spring for study days and

finals, the University Center (UC)

transformed for the first time

into the UTSA Study Center, with

expanded building hours and

spaces to support students as

they prepared for their exams.

“The Academic Affairs Committee

of the Student Government

Association approached us about

overcrowding in other study

spaces on campus. As the heart of

student life, we are happy to help

in any way we can. Many student

unions around the country expand

their operating hours during

finals. The UC is the UTSA student

union and we are committed to

student success,” said University

Center Director Herbert Ganey.

The UC North building maintained

24-hour operations from April

30 through May 7, with student

employees helping to staff

overnight shifts. Public areas

were readied to accommodate

those looking for convenient

places to study on the Main

Campus, while meeting spaces

were dedicated as study rooms

available to individuals and groups

on a first-come, first-served basis.

Likewise, all available HEB UC

rooms were opened to students

during building hours. In addition

to study space, the UC offered

students free chair massages,

portable snacks and pizza, as well

as testing supply tables. Business

Auxiliary Services and Aramark

also supported this initiative with

extended hours at several UC

Food Court locations.

Enrollment of Fall 2014 new

Roadrunners

Incoming new Roadrunners ranked

Top 25% in High School

UTSA graduates and May 2014 was

largest class in a term

Customer interactions in Financial Aid & Enrollment Services

4,966 60% 100k+ 290,730

EVENT

Spend a Saturday at UTSA DayUTSA Day continues to be the largest on-campus event during

the year for prospective students. This spring, there were well over

1,900 guests and students on campus, receiving a great welcome to

Roadrunner country. Collaborations between various departments

were showcased, including Admissions, Orientation and Family

Programs, Athletics, Residence Life and Housing, Financial Aid and

Enrollment Services, and several academic departments. More options

were added to the program that included welcome sessions, tour

times and academic presentations. Financial Aid hosted Rowdy Orange

and Blueprint which provided financial aid counseling to a total of

359 students and their 902 guests. This was the first year to offer

early sign-up for orientation to those accepted to UTSA and over 200

students took advantage of this. Athletics played a large part in this

collaborative day when the UTSA Volleyball team and Football team

hosted an open spring practice which allowed prospective students,

UTSA Alumni and the UTSA community to be onlookers as these two

athletic teams displayed their talent. To round out the day, the baseball

team successfully defeated their opponent and hundreds gathered for

a concert on the University Center Lawn sponsored by Roadrunner

Productions, University Center, Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic

Council. Such a great day provided a signature experience for students

and families.

Connie Chia ‘96, Su Khoh-Reiter ‘95, Angela Taylor-Blackshear ‘97, Judy Juarez ‘98, and Erica Sadlon ‘98 at the UTSA Ambassadors’ 25th anniversary celebration.

Re view

10

No

w &

Forev

er 20

14-2

015

11

UT

SA

Stu

den

t Aff

airs

UTSA ConnectionTrae Thompson is a new student for fall 2015 from Houston,Texas. What makes Trae’s story so special is that new student orientation this summer was not the start of his UTSA connection. He was actually a Roadrunner way before he was even admitted to UTSA. Trae’s mother, Phyllis Thompson, actually worked for UTSA from 1994 to 1997 as a Program Coordinator for Minority Affairs, part of Student Affairs. Trae was born in 1996 and 19 years later he is part of the UTSA community again as one of our newest Roadrunners.

During new student orienta-tion, Trae was acknowledged with an MVP award for his group. This award is selected by the group’s Orientation Leader and is awarded to only one group member that distinguishes himself with UTSA spirit and excellent team work.  Coincidentally, Mrs. Thompson was also awarded the MVP award for her participation in the family orientation. This award is selected by the family orientation leader-ship team.

Following orientation, Mrs.

Thompson sent the orientation team a letter of gratitude; the following are excerpts from the letter:

Greetings Lisa & Orientation Staff, We attended the orientation held on June 15-17, 2015-every session was informative, engaging and worth every moment. Initially I was overwhelmed with the thought of leaving him at UTSA in just a few weeks, but your team removed all of those doubts for me. We are prepared and confident that UTSA is a great fit.  It is very obvious that the entire UTSA staff cares about the students and their families.  Everyone made us feel totally welcomed. Hats off to the Orientation team-all of you did an awesome job. Greeting us in the heat, answering questions, entertaining us and supporting us for hours with a smile every time.  This team is amazing.  Keep up the great work you all do for students & families.

Proud Roadrunners for Life!  The Thompson Family.

EVENT

Rowdy GrasIn February, the University Center

hosted its 2nd Annual Rowdy

Gras—the UTSA version of

New Orleans’ Mardi Gras. UTSA

students and staff assembled for

a Rowdy-led parade that ended

at the HEB University Center

Ballroom where they enjoyed

free Cajun and Creole food,

live music, beads, masks, face

painting and more.

PROJECT

Digitizing RecordsWhat to do with over 100,000

paper student files in a downtown

warehouse? A new scanning

project in the Office of the

Registrar aims to make student

files completely electronic,

which will make the re-admission

process easier for returning

students.

EVENT

Student Send OffAthletics, the Alumni Association

and Admissions collaborated on

several events during the spring

to provide admitted students

a seamless and welcoming

transition to UTSA. These “Send

Offs” and the “Coker Road Show”

incorporated opportunities for

admitted students attending

UTSA this fall and Alumni in

select host cities to interact

with staff from Admissions, the

Alumni Association and Athletics.

Service hours through the Student Center for

Community Engagement and Inclusion

Students participated in University Center

programs

Users on Student Activities’ RowdyLink

9,278 13k+ 15k+

PROGRAM Presidential ScholarshipIn 2014-2015, UTSA established the prestigious Distinguished

Presidential Scholarship (DPS), a four-year scholarship awarded

to high-achieving freshmen, based on their class rank and SAT/

ACT scores. This elite group of students was welcomed with

much fanfare at a reception where they were greeted by Vice

President for Student Affairs Sam Gonzales and Provost Dr. John

Frederick. After opening remarks, freshmen were paired with a staff

mentor within Financial Aid and Enrollment Services to support

them through their next four years. The Distinguished Presidential

Scholarship has helped students make the decision to come to

UTSA. “As an out-of-state student,” says Allison Wilhelm, “how to

finance my education was a top concern for me and my family.

...The Distinguished Presidential Scholarship...allowed me to qualify

for in-state tuition...and allowed me to fulfill my dream of attending

UTSA at an affordable cost for my family.”

EVENT Celebrating at Grad FestEnrollment Services, the University Career Center, Alumni

Programs, the UTSA Bookstore and Graduation Coordination

collaborated to make Grad Fest more of a celebration than a

come-and-go, informational event. The goal was to increase

awareness of the event and to make this a tradition of UTSA

celebrating the successes of graduation. The event was relocated

to the HEB University Center Ballroom at the Main Campus and the

Frio Street Commons at the Downtown Campus. When the doors

opened, a crowd of students entered to interact with staff and

vendors, all while listening to music, taking congratulatory selfies

and entering prize drawings for giveaways. A total of 1,889 students

came to Grad Fest and we look forward to celebrating next year.

RECOGNITION

All-American OfficialAdreanna Broussard, an Intramural

Sports official, officiated at the National

Intramural-Recreational Sports

Association (NIRSA) National Basketball

Tournament at North Carolina State

University. Broussard was among 56

student officials from across the country,

all of whom received invitations to work

at the national tournament through

their outstanding performances at

regional tournaments earlier this year.

The officials worked more than 160

tournament games, participated in

training sessions from top collegiate

officials and received feedback after

every game from court-side evaluators.

While the teams competed on the court

for the championship, Broussard and the

other officials were competing to earn

the coveted designation of All-American

Official. After being the crew chief for

the Women’s National Championship

Game, Broussard was one of eight

officials to receive the All-American

distinction. In doing so, she becomes

UTSA Campus Recreation’s first ever

All-American official.

EVENT March Into Your MajorIn order to assist students with the important decision of selecting

the right major, the University Career Center partnered with the

University College’s First Year Experience Office and Academic

Advising to create “March Into Your Major,” a new exploration fair

targeted at undeclared students. As the name suggests, the event

was held in March and gave students an opportunity to take career

assessments with career counselors, research various occupations,

as well as meet with academic advisors to discuss various major

and minor options. There were 1,100 students who attended this

event and, at the end of Spring 2015, 36% of undeclared student

had selected a major.

Trae Thompson with his sister and mother.

Re view

12

No

w &

Forev

er 20

14-2

015

13

UT

SA

Stu

den

t Aff

airs

An Emotional Farewell: The Original 18Following the conclusion of the 2014 football season, UTSA said its final goodbye to 37 seniors including the program’s Original 18 signees. The incredible contribution these young men made to the new football program, the university and the San Antonio community is hard to put into words.

Most of the 37 seniors signed on with head coach Larry Coker and his staff before UTSA even played its first football game. The Original 18 spent an entire year practicing in 2010 without ever playing a game. Over the past four seasons, the student-athletes worked toward earning a college degree while establishing a football program that has moved from independent status to becoming a competitive member of Conference USA.

“They came to UTSA with little fanfare, strapped on used shoulder pads and drove two miles to practice at a high school field early each morning. All they asked for was a chance — a chance to play major college football — and UTSA gave it to them, along with a chance to earn a college degree. Most, if not all

of them, will earn that degree this year or next,” said Lynn Hickey, Athletic Director.

Prior to the last game of the season, Head Coach Larry Coker commented that the seniors, “came here on a vision and a dream,” Coker said. “It says a lot about UTSA. It says a lot about San Antonio and the Alamodome and hopefully about our (coaching) staff. Again, they just mean a lot to us. I want them to go out with a strong legacy, obviously, but also (I want them) to realize what they’ve done for this program.” Now, they move on to the next chapter of their lives while leaving behind a legacy that will never be forgotten.

Senior wide receiver Marcellus Mack summed it up best when he said, “for me, UTSA Football will forever be a brotherhood, a group of young men from across the country put together by no one other than God and an amazing coaching staff. I can say choosing to play for UTSA was one of the best decisions of my life. I thank God for the brothers I have made along the way and the memories we created together that will last a lifetime.”

One of the Original 18, running back Brandon Armstrong broke free for a 21-yard touchdown during UTSA’s final game of the 2014 season against North Texas.

PHOTO: JEFF HUEHN

Students living on campus

Visitors to both UTSA Welcome Centers

Virtual visitors to UTSA’s online tour, YouVisit

4,300+ 33,790 12,928

RECOGNITION

Powerlifting into Tradition“Women’s Club Powerlifting has won the club’s second team national

championship in as many years at the 2015 USAPL Collegiate National

Championships held April 10-12 in Atlanta. In addition, two female

club members won individual weight class national titles. Campus

Recreation, in support of their vision to be recognized leaders in

student development and collegiate recreation, financially supports

students each year to represent UTSA at Club Sports regional and

national tournaments. With their championship in hand, the Club

became the first student organization to celebrate UTSA’s newest

tradition—the lighting of the UTSA Monuments. The Monuments,

an award-winning architectural element, welcomes everyone to

the UTSA Main Campus, highlights the university’s presence in the

community and shows that UTSA’s spirit burns brightly.

EVENT

March for JusticeLast spring, staff and students

representing the Student Leadership

Center (SLC) joined thousands from

the San Antonio area at the César

Chávez March for Justice, in memory

of the renowned labor and civil rights

leader and the causes of social justice

that he advanced. Participation in

the march served as a precursor for

SLC’s next initiative, a one-day local

version of the Civil Rights and Social

Justice Experience slated for March

2016 that is designed to focus on the

continuing history of social justice

activism in San Antonio. “Students

come back from the bigger trip

fired up then may lose momentum

for lack of an immediate outlet to

remain engaged,” said Vincent Perez,

program coordinator for the SLC.

“The Student Leadership Center

wants to help continue engagement

and support in making tangible

efforts.” Student feedback and

involvement in local events such as

the César Chávez March underscore

the need to connect the national

history of social justice activism

with local and contemporary issues

deserving the attention and energy of

this generation.

RECOGNITION

Delta Alpha Pi Honor SocietyThe Delta Alpha Pi Honor Society

(DAPi), an international honor

society for students with disabilities,

held its first induction ceremony in

October. This is the first registered

UTSA student organization founded

to recognize the academic

accomplishments of students with

disabilities.

Re view

Reaching for ExcellenceEdited by Jessica HoracePhotograph by Brandon Fletcher

As Student Affairs professionals, we know that students learn outside the classroom through intentional, student-centered programs and services, in addition to learning inside the classroom.

SGA members Jeff Schilder, Ileana Gonzalez, Adrian Guajardo, Lauren Lopez and Jaswanth Kintada.

14

No

w &

Forev

er 20

14-2

015

15

UT

SA

Stu

den

t Aff

airs

he REACH initiative has been a guiding

framework for Student Affairs staff to measure student learning in the five domains of Responsibility, Engaged Citizenship, Active Leadership, Critical Thinking, and Healthy and Balanced Living. As departments provided services and programs for our students throughout this past year, they positively contributed to student development, learning and success.

ResponsibilityAs students progress through their college career, they are developing skills to be aware of expectations, utilize available resources, and take ownership for actions. The student conduct process has become a tool for individualized growth and a positive learning experience, using the E.P.I.C. Journey Sanctioning Model.

This award-winning model employed by Student Conduct and Community Standards transforms students’ perceptions of the conduct process. Student survey feedback reflected this transformative experience, with 96% of students supporting their individualized discipline/judicial experience, and another 85% of students indicating an ability to see how their actions affect their college success.

In August, members of the Financial Aid Education Team trained all Peer Mentors on setting a successful spending plan. The goal of the training was to educate our Peer Mentors not only on how to set up a workable budget, but also to inform them (and thereby their freshmen mentees) of the financial counseling resources we have available through our Rowdy Cents program. Rowdy Cents offers multiple classes in the fall semester to students ranging from topics on spending plans, credit and successful loan repayment. Partnering with our Peer Mentors was a great way to get the word out about financial literacy so we can reach students from the beginning of their college career to understand important financial topics.

Engaged CitizenshipThrough the Roadrunner Creed, students pledge to contribute to campus life and the surrounding community through their continued engaged citizenship. The Volunteer Services Office (VSO), an extension of the Student Center for Community Engagement and Inclusion (SCCEI), connects the UTSA and San Antonio communities through a broad range of service opportunities for student involvement, while addressing social issues and community needs.

Volunteer Organization Involving Community Education and Service, or VOICES, is a student sponsored organization through the SCCEI that takes the lead on volunteerism for the UTSA Community. This year, VOICES completed over 270 service projects, totaling 7,821 hours of service to UTSA, the San Antonio community and beyond. Projects included Extreme Makeover: UTSA Edition, Alternative Spring Break trips, United to Serve, and Roadrunners Give Back. The development and logistics of all VOICES projects are entirely dependent on students who value and appreciate the importance of volunteerism.

“Volunteering opens your eyes … and

allows individuals to continue to find beauty in life,” said Amber Calvert, a junior and VOICES officer. Ebonie Carter, a senior VOICES officer, proclaimed volunteering to be important because “it allows people to give back to their communities, and serves as a learning experience for everyone involved.” The impact VOICES has had can be felt by students and staff alike.

Brian Halderman, Director of the Center for Civic Engagement, had the opportunity to work with a group of students during the United to Serve project. He described the experience as “a wonderful opportunity to interact with students while giving back to the community. It was a rewarding experience for us all.”

“The biggest benefit that I received is more appreciation for life…it showed me that staying up all night to study is not the worst thing on the planet,” remarked Frances Garner, a graduate student and trip advisor for the Alternative Spring Break San Antonio project.

“As a Roadrunner, it is so nice to see faculty, staff, students and alumni come together under one common goal,” said Larriel Shaw, a UTSA junior and VOICES member. “I’ve done this

LEFT Akin Akinbayo, Amber Fowler, Jasmin Martin, Adriana Martinez, Nate McDuell, Manny Mondragon, Jennifer Rodriguez and Nakisha Ward participated in the Habitat for Humanity Project on October 18, 2013 with VOICES.

BOTTOM Mayor Ivy Taylor, Courtney Hunter, Korede Osifuwa, Francis Garner and Councilman Ron Nirenberg celebrated UTSA’s recognition of the “President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll” and the Carnegie Foundation’s prestigious “Community Engagement Classification” during the United to Serve kickoff event on April 10, 2015.

16

No

w &

Forev

er 20

14-2

015

17

UT

SA

Stu

den

t Aff

airs

project before (Roadrunners Give Back), and it truly gets better every time. I’m happy to have volunteered with something so valuable and precious. The feeling to be a part of something larger than me for the greater good for the San Antonio community is amazing.”

Just as students are working to make a difference in the San Antonio community; Kappa Delta Pi (International Education Honor Society) collaborated with UTSA’s Child Development Center (CDC) to have a dedicated event that would present activities for pre-school age children, while providing the Honor Society members with a unique learning experience. The activities were all developmentally appropriate for the different learning stages of the children and focused on science, technology, reading, art and math (STREAM). Kappa Delta Pi did the planning of all activities with their faculty advisor, Dr. Misty Sailors’ review and approval. The event was a great success and not only did the children at CDC benefit from the activities, many of the organization members benefited from getting hands-on experience in early childhood education. “It was a big eye opener for some of the members,” said Tiffany Pelzel, Class of 2015, who spearheaded the event. “A lot of times,

people underestimate small children and how much they can learn from an activity.”

As UT System and UTSA take a more serious and community-wide look at sexual assault awareness and prevention this year, the Interfraternity Council took the lead to host the first ever Call to Action Day, a collaborative event between the UTSA Police Department, Housing and Residence Life, Student Conduct and Community Standards, and the Interfraternity Council.

To bring awareness to new students entering UTSA this fall, Orientation and Family Programs collaborated with the UTSA Bystander Intervention Team to educate the incoming class about actions they can take to respond to various situations that may arise on campus. This was accomplished through the Campus Life skit during Orientation, training the Orientation Leaders, and the promotion of the UTSA Bystander Message on the Class of 2019 shirts: “Recognize Potential Harm, Choose to Respond, Take Action.”

Active LeadershipThe mission of the UTSA Student Leadership Center is to facilitate and provide intentional and purposeful leadership encounters through

Student Learning OutcomesThe Council for the Advancement of Standards (CAS) in Higher Education publishes standards for student affairs/student service areas as a guide for ensuring adequate support, as well as the intended learning outcomes. REACH serves as our guide in Student Affairs to promote student learning, and our goals align very closely with the national standards provided by CAS.

CAS Student Outcome Domain

CAS Dimensions of Outcome Domain

Student Affairs Learning Goals

Knowledge acquisition, construction, integration, and application

Understanding knowledge from

a range of disciplines

Connecting knowledge to other

knowledge, ideas, and experiences

Constructing knowledge

Relating knowledge to daily life

Cognitive complexity

Critical thinkingCritical ThinkingReflective thinking

Effective reasoning

Creativity

Intrapersonal Development

Realistic self-appraisal,

self-understanding, and self-respectHealthy & Balanced Living

Identity development

Commitment to ethics and integrity

Spiritual awareness

Interpersonal Competence

Meaningful relationshipsActive LeadershipInterdependence

Collaboration

Effective leadership

Humanitarianism & Civic Engagement

Understanding and appreciation of

cultural and human differencesEngaged Citizenship

Global perspective

Social responsibility

Sense of civic responsibility

Practical Competence

Pursuing goalsResponsibility

Communicating effectively

Technological competence

Managing personal affairs

Managing career development

Demonstrating professionalism

Maintaining health and wellness

Living a purposeful and satisfying life

Source: Council for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education, 2008

education, engagement and experience. The Student Leadership Center implemented a new “Introduction to Leadership” course in Fall 2014. Planning of this class involved collaboration with the Department of Educational Leadership, the Faculty Ombudsperson, Academic Scheduling and Student Life. Students greatly benefited from participation in a course that was designed with an academic focus on leadership, and that encouraged their engagement with Student Life programs.

According to Eliot Howard, associate director of the Student Leadership Center, the basis of the class is a survey of leadership perspectives. Other aspects of the course include the development of a conceptual mind map of leadership, including leadership competencies, and the creation of an action plan for self-development. As a mid-level class, one of its goals is to help students put into practice what they are learning. Students are encouraged to focus on self-leadership, with an aim to helping them become more intentional and effective. Group service-learning projects are also incorporated as a significant part of the course experience. In the Fall 2014 semester, students of the course collectively provided over 160 hours of direct service to local agencies, including City Year, Girl Scouts and the Family Service Association. As the course moves forward, students also will help to develop the curriculum for a locally-based Civil Rights and Social Justice program, giving them the opportunity to reflect and contribute within the San Antonio community.

The University Center has expanded its robust student employment program with the addition of graduate assistant positions, offering next-level experience in areas such as events management, accounting and marketing. “Today there are nine graduate assistants across the UC who bring a great deal of insight, energy and talent,” says UC Director Herbert Ganey. “They are open to learning.”

Beyond their day-to-day responsibilities, graduate assistants are shaping student leadership within the UC. “They help full-time staff by aiding the development of their department from a student’s perspective that can be comprised of work experience from other departments on campus,” says Nicolas Schill, a set-ups graduate assistant. In several UC areas, graduate assistants schedule and supervise student staff. Ultimately they will play a large part in creating and

Civil Rights and Social Justice Experience 2015

18

No

w &

Forev

er 20

14-2

015

19

UT

SA

Stu

den

t Aff

airs

overseeing student staff training.While graduate assistants provide crucial

support, they are gaining practical job experience and leadership skills that will help their careers. “One of the main reasons that I wanted to work here is so that I could have the experience of being a manager before going out into the real world,” says Karen Defee, an Information Desk graduate assistant. Omar Youssef, a graduate assistant in the University Center Business Office, approaches it from a different angle: “As an international student, it helped me gain more experience and knowledge about the work environment in the U.S.”

Critical ThinkingIn Housing and Residence Life, residents were empowered to think critically over the past year through a variety of programs. UTSA faculty were involved in four programs within the residential community. Fine Arts faculty members were involved in “Annie at the Majestic” program that focused on theater etiquette. Multiple faculty from the Honors College attended the stress reduction program “Honors DE-stress fest”. The Honors College also hosted a “Breakfast with the Dean” for residents of the Honors College community. Music faculty participated in programs entitled “Perfectionism” and “Sax and Chillax” for the music special-interest community.

Healthy and Balanced LivingThe World Health Organization defines health as a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. As we urge our students to adopt healthy and balanced lifestyles, we emphasize that making good decisions in all aspects of life ultimately contribute to optimal health and wellness.

Campus Recreation’s vision is to be recognized leaders in collegiate recreation and student development. Part of that development includes teaching Roadrunners how to live healthy and balanced lives. Over 700 Roadrunners participated in a Demonstration Kitchen at the Recreation Center, sponsored by Campus Recreation or another organization on campus. Steve Kudika, Assistant Director of Fitness & Wellness said, “The over-arching goal of the demo kitchen is to introduce participants to healthy cooking techniques that can be done affordably. The great thing about our demonstrations is that the ingredients we use can be repurposed to multiple meals. We’re trying to show the students that eating healthy can be done on a college budget and taste good, too.”

The demonstrations have proven to be impactful and informative for individuals with

varying levels of cooking experience. “I have been cooking for about 8 years now and was still able to pick up great advice,” commented one student. Another participant remarked, “I did not know cooking chicken was so easy! I am now more motivated to actually cook instead of eating Ramen noodles.”

Most importantly, the Demonstration Kitchens have set up students for healthy habits. Following the demonstration(s), 90% of participants were able to identify at least one healthy modification for a recipe, and 88% were able to identify at least two modifications. “I learned so much when it comes to eating healthy, the right way to do it and still enjoy a tasteful meal,” said one student.

Student Health Services has implemented a peer-led health education program to provide UTSA students with a variety of resources, activities, and health tips from fellow Roadrunners. Students walking through the Paseo on a Wednesday during lunchtime spotted the Health Nest, which was created in the fall of 2013 and has quickly become one of Student Health Services’ most visible programs.

The goal of Health Nest is to correct the many misconceptions about health that can impact student health such as stress, health insurance, alcohol use and body image.

In Spring of 2015, Student Health Services added a customized gazebo for Health Nest to increase visibility and attract more students to visit and participate. Since the implementation of the gazebo, 1,478 students have participated in Health Nest activities. The Health Nest team is comprised of student volunteers from different majors who have a passion to be health advocates by increasing the awareness of healthy behaviors among other students. Weekly intensive training is provided to the Health Nest team on the topics they cover.

“Being able to contribute so much of my time and effort to this weekly program really helped develop my interpersonal skills,” said Monica Rodriguez, Class of 2015. Rodriguez also commented, “Health Nest is a great program that provides Roadrunners with a variety of important resources and health education that can later help them in making informed decisions over health behaviors that pertain to the average college student.”

Mental health is another essential component of healthy living and many students can benefit from counseling in a variety of ways. When asked what they found most helpful about counseling, some responses from students have been, “counseling improved my relationships with my family, friends, and significant other,” and “everything in my life is more in order than it used to be.”

This year, Counseling Services administered a student satisfaction survey and, based on the survey results, Counseling staff observed that the majority of students showed improvement in developing ways of coping, and felt they were more likely to stay in school. Furthermore, more than half of students indicated that after counseling they were better able to manage their emotions, had better stress management skills, and had improved self-esteem. This year’s student satisfaction survey included questions specifically designed to measure components of REACH; 88% of the students surveyed reported an increase in healthy and balanced living compared to before they came to Counseling Services.

FAR LEFT Students learn how to make sushi at the Recreation Center Demonstration Kitchen.

LEFT Student Health Services’s Health Nest gazebo encourages students to visit and learn about health education.

20

No

w &

Forev

er 20

14-2

015

21

UT

SA

Stu

den

t Aff

airs

22

No

w &

Forev

er 20

14-2

015

23

UT

SA

Stu

den

t Aff

airs

“Walking to class with their heads down, wearing “bigger” schools t-shirts and enrolling for a year before transferring. When I started at UTSA five years ago, this was almost the norm. Thankfully, I have had the pleasure of witnessing the transformation of UTSA becoming a place where students love to be involved on campus, folks are proud to rock their UTSA t-shirts and people come with the intent to transfer and end up staying because they have fallen in love with the school and the community here. I have seen this change through the eyes of a student-athlete that is a part of the last class to have ever played in three different conferences, as we grew so rapidly into a top tier Division I university. It’s been incredible to be a part of the culture change here at UTSA on and off the court!” - Danielle Ross

Class of 2017, Kinesiology major

- Chassidy FrelowClass of 2016, Kinesiology major

- Cy FondalClass of 2015, Business ManagementNov 2014 Student Leadership Center Roadrunner of the Month and Dean of Students Outstanding Leadership Award

“The women’s powerlifting club impacted my experience here at UTSA by introducing me to some of the best people I could have ever met.”

“Leadership to me is not a word, it’s an action.”

“While I don’t experience

the same struggles as many

of my fellow marchers,

particularly Hispanic

citizens, it doesn’t mean that

I can’t help them make a

change. The beautiful thing

about justice is that it is for

everybody and when it’s not

given to you or others, you

must fight for it.”

Hear say

Back to the BeginningExcerpt from Nate Leonard’s blog on goutsa.com, originally published 8/31/2014

As I sit in the desk chair of my dorm room, I realize that my dream of playing Division I college football is in its final act. My hands are sweating and I will blame my diligent typing and not the culmination of my emotions.

I just got off the phone with my dad and I haven’t seen him for a couple of months. Luckily, that absence will end Friday in Houston when we take on the U of H Cougars.

It’s game week at UTSA. I am no longer a boy, but a man, and UTSA Football no longer is an infant, but a nationally-known program to be reckoned with.

I say I’m a man, but only because at 23 years of age, I have helped build something that will last forever. I helped build it with my hands and a commitment of time and body that I feel only a man could make. I didn’t do it alone, of course. I had a team of men … “The Original 18.”

“The Original 18” are the guys on this year’s team that have been here from the start. From the moment in time when we practiced six days a week, lifted four days a week, practiced in UTEP hand-me-down gear and didn’t play a single game. The same guys who signed on the dotted line to play at a football program that didn’t even exist outside a football and some replica jerseys in the bookstore. We are the ones who blindfolded ourselves, stepped to the ledge and jumped because we were told that it would all be worth it at the bottom. We jumped alright, but we find that we landed ourselves at the top.

Being a member of “The Original 18” is an honor that I share with these fine men. The others are Crosby Adams III, Brandon Armstrong, Richard Burge, David Glasco II, Seth Grubb, Cody Harris, Earon Holmes, Cole Hubble, Sean Ianno, Scott Inskeep, Nic Johnston, Kam Jones, Marcellus Mack, Ferrington Macon, Cody Rogers, Nate Shaw and Darrien Starling.

So, when the Friday night clock strikes 8 p.m., I will be buckling my chinstrap across my scruffy, unshaven face and taking the field for the last first time with 17 of the most honorable men I know. Most importantly, I will fight alongside them to protect and uphold something that only we could build: the legacy of UTSA Football.

- Dempsey Thornton ‘14Graduate Student and UTSA Volleyball Champion 2013 Regular Season2013 Tournament2014 Regular Season

24 25

UT

SA

Stu

den

t Aff

airs

Net works

Communicate.Connect.Collaborate.Create.Social media has helped

us connect even further.

Many great things

happened last year,

and we look forward to

another year of shared

moments and snapshots.

Keep up with us on our

official Student Affairs

channels.

Instagram@UTSAStudents

Twitter@UTSAStudents

FacebookUTSAStudentAffairs

SnapchatUTSAStudents

FACEBOOK AUG 17, 2015

Fall ConvocationUTSA welcomed more than 5,000 first-time freshmen and transfer students.

utsastudents So it rained a little at Orientation today but #UTSA19 didn’t let it stop them! Keep going! #Nowandforever #UTSA JUN 30, 2015

FACEBOOK JUN 5, 2015

Annual Student Affairs Jamboree with Jonathan Bange and Carlos Garcia

FACEBOOK NOVEMBER 5, 2014

Halloween shared George Takei’s photo

Congratulations UTSA Student Financial Aid & Enrollment Services featured on George Takei Facebook page! He has the best social media! Check out the post on his Facebook to vote for them to “win Halloween.”

FACEBOOK MAY 10, 2015

Commencement with staff from Graduation Coordination within the Registrar’s Office

FACEBOOK AUGUST 26, 2014

Student Leadership Center Ribbon Cutting

FACEBOOK NOVEMBER 12, 2014

Distinguished Presidential Scholarship ReceptionThe 2014 freshman class was the first to receive the DPS scholarship.

FACEBOOK DECEMBER 10, 2014

Stress Down DayFor the second time at UTSA, therapy dogs were onsite at Stress Down Days.

@UTSASTUDENTS AUG 6 2015

Slow clap and a nod to the amazing #UTSA Orientation Leaders that finished their season today. Thank you so much! #NowandForever #UTSA19

@UTSASTUDENTS APR 19 2015

Congratulations to @UTSAMT RT @UTSAATHLETICS

@UTSAMT celebrating its first-ever @Conference_USA Men’s Tennis Championship on Sunday in Norfolk.

@UTSASTUDENTS MAY 14 2015

Yes!RT @JMBUNSON

Gotta love @RowdyUTSA in a suit and @UTSAStudents VP taking a selfie!

@UTSASTUDENTS APR 20, 2015

WOW! Grand Opening #UTSA store at @HEB at DeZavala #VPSASamGonzales w/Jaime Lozano, Parent Council on right #birdsup

@UTSASTUDENTS MAY 14 2015

Awesome photo! #UTSA #DoingBigThings RT @_ILEANAGLEZ_

Runners up in Taipei from your Ms. @UTSA 2014! What an amazing experience!

@UTSASTUDENTS 3 SEP 2014

Cheering on @UTSAFTBL at Rowdy Rally. @RowdyUTSA has nothing but love for @LarryCoker - he don’t bow to just anyone

utsastudents SGA President Zack Dunn, Councilman Ron Nirenberg, and Dr. Romo take off on the first ride at UTSA.

FEB 17, 2015

utsastudents Congratulations Dr. Graham on 40 years of service at #UTSA - We love you!! @UTSA OCT 1, 2014

All It’s Cracked Up to BeThe 2015 theme for Fiesta UTSA was

“All It’s Cracked Up to Be,” in honor of

the ubiquitous Fiesta tradition of the

breaking of cascarónes on the heads

of fellow Fiesta-goers. UTSA set the

record for cracking 11,006 cascarónes

during a single event.

Division of Student Affairs 2014-15The University of Texas at San Antonio

The Student Experience