UTSA's first travel services fair informs 150+

By Diana Valle
Business Policy Writer and Web Coordinator, Office of Financial Affairs

(April 22, 2009)--Approximately 150 employees attended the first UTSA Travel Fair hosted by the Office of Disbursements and Travel Services. The fair featured representatives from UTSA- and state-contracted travel and car rental agencies and hotels that have direct-billing programs with UTSA.

Attendees were greeted with live music by the UTSA Mariachi Ensemble at the March 19 event in the John Peace Library Building on the Main Campus.

"Music always sets such a great atmosphere, and since we already had a working relationship with the music department, they were very gracious to perform during our event," said Antoinette Davis, assistant director of travel and disbursement services and travel fair coordinator.

The department's staff had considered organizing a travel fair for some time. When two travel agency contracts were added in January, the decision was made to organize the fair to inform UTSA faculty and staff of the many cost-saving travel choices. "This was an opportunity to get everyone together -- it was the right time," said Davis.

"What a great way to showcase all of the resources available to UTSA. This was a great forum for UTSA staff to interact with the vendors," said Bob Miller, business manager in the Division of Student Affairs.

Travel services staff members and approximately 20 vendors, including the Enterprise and Avis car rental firms and the Holiday Inn Select, Hyatt and Drury Inn hotel chains were on hand to answer questions. Additionally, several vendors offered giveaways and door prizes.

"Having the opportunity to meet the vendors was great," said Candy Schlueter, administrative services officer in the Office of Financial Affairs. "The setup was wonderful, the treats were delicious and the wealth of contact information received will be very helpful."