The UTSA Student Affairs Staff Development team has worked hard to showcase dynamic, interactive presentations for the Dimensions of Success Workshop -- an opportunity for all staff members to grow professionally and learn about various topics in an intimate setting.

Dimensions of Success will take place on Friday, December 2nd, from 9:00 am to noon in the UC Denman Room. Some of the topics that will be discussed include “Ethics” “Protecting Your Identity”, “Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, oh my…”, “Generational Differences” and more. You will be able to select four different topics and hear from a presenter while having time for small group discussion. Join us for the last Staff Development Team opportunity of the semester to learn something new and to network with other Student Affairs staff members! Sign up today for SD 0418 at myTraining .

For questions regarding this event please email claudia.giliberti@utsa.edu. We look forward to seeing you there!

--Staff Development Team

We are happy to announce the VPSA Holiday Luncheon will be held Tuesday, December 6th. Luncheon tickets will be delivered to your departments by the end of the week. There are two luncheons in order to accommodate our large division, so please check with your supervisor regarding which luncheon you will attend. Supervisors are responsible for ensuring office coverage. Seatings will be 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Also, please remember to wear your name badges. This is a great opportunity to meet other staff members and be able to put that familiar name with a face.

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By Ashley Festa
Multimedia Editor

(Nov. 29, 2011) -- UTSA President Ricardo Romo and Dr. Harriett Romo will host a holiday breakfast for faculty, staff and student leaders from 9 to 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, Dec. 7 in the University Center Ballroom (1.104) on the Main Campus.

A UTSA tradition, the event is a thank-you to employees and student leaders at holiday time. Last year, nearly 1,000 attended.

The university community also will have the opportunity to donate nonperishable food items for the UTSA Holiday Food Drive benefiting the San Antonio Food Bank. Boxed and canned goods can be dropped off at the breakfast; items in glass containers cannot be accepted....

For the full article, visit: URL

By Patricia Graham
Executive Director, Special Events Center

(Nov. 23, 2011) -- The UTSA Ambassadors Program requests your assistance in nominating outstanding second-semester freshman, sophomore, junior, senior, or graduate students for membership in the UTSA Ambassadors program.

UTSA Ambassadors are a group of 70 selected student leaders who provide a variety of volunteer services for the university and its administration, faculty and staff. The selected students will serve during the 2012-2013 academic year.

The following qualities should be considered in making nominations: scholarship (minimum 2.75 cumulative grade point average), leadership, participation in extracurricular and academic activities, and service to UTSA. Nominees will be sent an application form to complete and return before the February 2012 interview process.

>> Download the nomination form and complete with each student's full legal name, student number and major. Send the completed form to the Special Events Center, University Center Room 1.224, (fax 210-458-6116), by Friday, Dec. 9.

For the full article, visit: URL

(Nov. 2, 2011) -- UTSA community members can receive flu shots at UTSA Student Health Services on the Main and Downtown campuses. The cost is $10 for students and $15 for faculty and staff members.

The shots are available 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Monday-Friday, in Recreation and Wellness Center Room 1.500 at the Main Campus and Buena Vista Street Building Room 1.308 at the Downtown Campus.

Payment can be with UTSACard (with a balance), MasterCard, Discover, American Express, Visa, cash or check. Bring your UTSACard for identification as a student or faculty-staff member. If you use, MasterCard, Discover and American Express, there is a small transaction charge.

For more information, call 210-458-4142 (Main Campus) or 210-458-2930 (Downtown Campus).

For a limited time, commemorative calendars featuring photographs from President Ricardo Romo’s “Culture/Cultura” exhibit are available for just $5. The calendar features 12 distinct photographs depicting people, places, and art exemplifying the concept of culture around San Antonio and the world. The calendar runs August 2011 through July 2012.

Arturo Almeida, curator of the UTSA Art Collection, curated both the exhibit and calendar. “Dr. Romo’s work beautifully illuminates what is unique and wonderful about people and cultures around the world,” Almeida said. There are three ways to purchase a “Culture/Cultura” calendar:

• Roadrunner Express
• In person at Vice President for Student Affairs Office (MB 4.108)
• Submit this order form to Brittany Pratt

The Student Affairs Transformation Fund supports innovative programs and services that develop staff and students. For more information, please contact Brittany Pratt 210.458.5119 or brittany.pratt@utsa.edu.

By Omar Hernandez
Public Affairs Specialist

(Nov. 22, 2011) -- This spring, the UTSA Student Affairs staff members will host a professional development conference to be presented March 28 and April 17. The conference development team invites UTSA faculty and staff to be presenters and moderators at the conference, with the theme "New Traditions, New Successes." The conference is an opportunity to share expertise with Student Affairs staff members.

The conference is divided into two sessions, Wednesday, March 28 and Tuesday, April 17 at the UTSA Main Campus. Participants must commit to present on both days.

To be considered for one of the presenter slots, download the application form and submit it via email by Tuesday, Jan. 17. Those selected to present will be notified in February.

The goal of the conference is to provide guidance on leadership approaches, management and supervision styles, career enhancement, and numerous other professionally related categories.

For more information regarding the conference's purpose, audience and scope, contact Keri Shiplet at 210-458-7299 or Erika Cox at 210-458-7295, or visit the Student Affairs Staff Development Team website.

For the full article, visit: URL

The UTSA Parent Council is proud to announce the 2011 Family Fund grant recipients. Eight projects received funding, totaling $13,645. Thank you to all our families who support the Family Fund!

• The Movement: A Civil Rights and Social Justice Trip – This five day trip, held in January, will include visits to New Orleans, Birmingham, and Memphis to allow the student participants the opportunity to learn about the Civil Rights Movement and the individuals who were active in advancing civil rights and social justice in these communities.
• Career Closet – Through the University Career Center, students will be able to check out professional outfits, including men’s and women’s suits, cost-free to dress appropriately for professional interviews.
• 21st Birthday Card – Be A Responsible Roadrunner will send a Happy Birthday message to students turning 21 with 10 tips on how to celebrate responsibly and a final tip to encourage a sober celebration. The card is also redeemable for a free smoothie from the Campus Rec Smoothie King.
• Beyond Borders – Hosted during Roadrunner Days, this event will help educate immigrant students on their unique needs and how UTSA staff are available to support them as they become active students on campus.
• Alternative Spring Break – Students commit their spring break to the service of others. Students have previously volunteered in New Orleans, Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio through Alternative Spring Break.
• Rowdy Wing Fling – Designed to educate and promote awareness to the student body on the risks and responsibilities associated with alcohol use, Rowdy Wing Fling is the first alcohol awareness event of the year and includes free food and plenty of “edutainment.”
• The Status Update – In conjunction with World AIDS Day, this expo will raise awareness on HIV/AIDS and other STIs, encourage HIV testing, and educate students on predisposing factors and behaviors.
• Leadership Cultural Dinner – A high profile speaker will present to the student body on issues ranging from leadership and political involvement to pop culture and the arts.

The driver training requirement under the student travel policy is now an online course. The Defensive Driving Awareness online course (SA 503) can be accessed through your UTSA My Training account. Operators who drive a rental vehicle to an activity or event covered under the student travel policy must complete this requirement. This requirement also applies to university-owned or leased vehicles, however, university-owned or leased vehicles are rarely used for student travel. Go to https://mytraining.utsa.edu/moodle/my/index.php and log into your My Training account. Click on the General Safety section and then click on Defensive Driving Awareness Program (SA 503). Review the instructions and complete the course and exam prior to departure. Once the exam is passed, your training history will reflect successful completion of the course. Provide verification that you passed the course to the department organizing the activity or event. If you have any questions about this requirement, please contact Carol Gonzalez, Student Ombudsperson, at (210) 458-4040.

You may come across a situation where a student asks for guidance because he/she is going to miss class due to a religious holy day, official university function, active military service and/or an illness/extenuating circumstance. Please review the HOP 5.09 Class Attendance Policy - http://utsa.edu/hop/chapter5/5-9.html for more information about the responsibilities of the student, instructor/faculty member and employee in charge of university-sanctioned activities. Note: Employees in charge of university-sanctioned activities must file a list of participating students and the dates requested for excused absences with the Office of the Provost. The Excused Absence from Class Attendance Form which is signed by the student and instructor/faculty member should also be utilized to outline any missed assignment requirements.

(Nov. 17, 20911) -- UTSA President Ricardo Romo is among 10 San Antonio community leaders in business, civic, broadcasting, education, tourism and legal professions named to the University of Texas "San Antonio Texas Exes Wall of Honor" Nov. 16 at the University Co-op store at the Alamo Quarry Market, 255 E. Basse Road, officials announced.

Included in the inaugural class are Valero Energy Chief Counsel Kimberly Bowers; San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Ramiro Cavazos; Automotive Executive Rick Cavender; Frost Bank President Pat Frost; WOAI-TV News Anchor Leslie Bohl Jones; San Antonio Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Casandra Matej; philanthropist and business icon B.J. "Red" McCombs; University of Texas at San Antonio President Ricardo Romo; Edgewood Independent School District Public Information Officer Maclovio Perez; and Bexar County District Attorney Susan Reed.

"We are really excited about this inaugural class. These UT Austin alumni have excelled in their professions and civic endeavors to the betterment of their community," explains George H. Mitchell, president and CEO of the nonprofit University Co-op...

For the full article, visit: URL

SAN ANTONIO — UTSA erupted for 21 points in the first quarter and never looked back en route to a 49-7 victory against Minot State in Saturday's season finale at the Alamodome.

The Roadrunners wrapped up their inaugural campaign with a 4-6 record, while the Beavers, a Division II independent, finished the year at 2-8.

Jason Neill picked off a Bryce Joregenson screen pass on Minot State's opening possession and the 6-foot-3, 250-pound defensive end rumbled 67 yards to paydirt to get the scoring parade started.

Evans Okotcha extended to the lead to 14 a little more than four minutes later when he broke through the line for a 77-yard touchdown on UTSA's third play from scrimmage.

The advantage grew to 21-0 on the Roadrunners' ensuing possession when Kam Jones finished off a five-play, 48-yard drive with a 22-yard scoring jaunt....

For the full article, visit: URL

Karen Ivy, Assistant Director of Student Services for the University Career Center, was selected through her partnership and collaboration with the U.S. Navy for a flight with the Blue Angels on October 26th. She currently volunteers on a regional council, Recruiting District Assistance Council, with Commander Lovejoy and his staff. Because of her efforts to support our military as well as promote it as a viable career option for students, she was selected as a Key Influencer for the United States Navy. Three civilians are chosen to fly with the elite fighter pilots that staff the Blue Angels crew. Karen says, “It is such an honor to be able to experience something so amazing with dedicated members of our Armed Forces. I already respect these individuals, but I have a newfound level of respect for these pilots who fly with no g-suits, specializing in incredible maneuvers, maintaining a high level of teamwork and integrity to their mission - all to ensure our country and innocent people around the world are protected. Working with the U.S. Navy, in general, has been a complete joy! I do encourage students to consider the Navy as a potential career path because of the diverse experiences and professional growth that is gained. There are no words to fully describe how amazing this particular experience was for me.” Below you will find two videos, one created by Billy Calzada, with the San Antonio Express News (from the ground), as well as some clips from Karen’s hour-long flight experience with her pilot, Lt. Dave Tickle.

From the ground (Billy Calzada – SAEN): Video
Clips from flight (U.S. Navy): Video

STEM Fair (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math)
Thursday, February 9th
9:00AM-12:00PM
UC Ballroom

All Majors Career Fair
Thursday, February 9th
1:30PM-4:30PM
UC Ballroom

Liberal and Fine Arts Fair (COLFA)
Tuesday, March 27th
9:00AM-12:00PM
UC Ballroom

Educator Career Fair
Thursday, April 5th
8:30AM-11:30AM
Convocation Center

For questions, contact the University Career Center at 210-458-4589.

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The UTSA Bookstore will host a faculty and staff appreciation event to celebrate the partnership between UTSA and Follett. The event will be 2-4 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 7 at the Main Campus bookstore in the University Center and the Downtown Campus bookstore in the Buena Vista Street Building. Refreshments will be served at both events. As a special thank-you, UTSA faculty and staff members will receive a 30-percent discount on selected merchandise during the open-house events.

UTSA Student Health Services announces the November issue of HIVnews. Read tips for talking to a partner about HIV testing, recent research discoveries and do an HIV/AIDS crossword puzzle. Additionally, there is information about Health Advocate organizations and UTSA Health Education upcoming events.

One of The UTSA Department of Music’s own – Travis Merriweather, was selected to represent UTSA Music at the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) annual conference that was held in San Antonio during the weekend of October 28-30th. Travis did an amazing job serving as the lead vocalist in performing the National Anthem to get the event started. Travis is a Student Government Junior Senator for COLFA, a Vocal Performance Music major who is the lead singer for UTSA’s own Atlantis, as well as being a leader on campus - having started and been involved with - several arts related student organizations. We thank Travis for continuing to represent both UTSA and The Department of Music with the utmost professionalism. Go Runners!

By Jana Schwartz
Graduate Assistant, Student Leadership Center

(Nov. 30, 2011) -- The UTSA Student Leadership Center sent 41 students to Houston Nov. 17 for the 2011 Texas Conference for Women. The conference at the George R. Brown Convention Center involved more than 6,000 participants with speakers focusing on leadership, professional development and personal growth.

Hosted by Texas First Lady Anita Perry, the 12th annual women's conference included inspiring keynote speakers such as Martha Beck, Lisa Niemi Swayze, Cindy Hensley McCain, Rose Mapendo and Jody Conradt. There were breakout sessions with panel discussions, a health and wellness pavilion, a career fair with a mentor-match program and resume critique as well as a vendor exhibit.

The Student Leadership Center (SLC) selected students from a range of majors and backgrounds to represent the university. The students reported they were pleased with the many great opportunities at the one-day conference and learned from the motivating messages of the keynote speakers...

For the full article, visit: URL

(Nov. 30, 2011) -- UTSA Student Health Services, the student organization SHADES (Sexual Health, Alcohol and Drug Awareness for Students), University Center Program Council (UCPC) and Delta Sigma Theta will host "World AIDS Day 2011: Getting to Zero" events at UTSA from Nov. 30 to Dec. 1.

The theme of the global effort is "Getting to zero discrimination, zero new HIV infections and zero AIDS-related deaths." See the events schedule below. To volunteer for an event, call 210-458-6428 or...

For the full article, visit: URL

David A. Garcia is the new Career Counselor with the University Career Center assigned to work with freshman and undecided students. Prior to joining the UCC, David interned with the Tomás Rivera Center and Counseling Services as part of his graduate training in the UTSA Master of Arts program in Counseling, which he completed in May 2011. With over 8 years of experience in non-profit and government social services settings, David previously worked as a program planner and coordinator dedicated to helping individuals and families, including those impacted by substance abuse, HIV/AIDS, and child abuse and neglect. In addition to working with freshman and undecided students, he is also interested in issues impacting first generation college students, individuals of color, and the LGBTQI population. David completed his Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Yale University.