World Mental Health Day

Veronica Salazar
Chief Enterprise Development Officer and Senior Vice President for Business Affairs

Dear Business Affairs,

At the end of this month, I am honored to have been invited for a second time to present at the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) Leadership Academy. As I spend time preparing for my presentation, I recall the last time I presented in 2019. It was pre-pandemic and a tumultuous time for me personally. My father was very sick and what I primarily remember from that time period is rushing home to spend his final days together.

The last four years have been filled with much grief as I processed the passing of my father, as well as the collective trauma of the pandemic and the many ways it impacted our community. I share these memories with you today, Oct. 10, as we recognize World Mental Health Day.

While the work we do at UTSA is important, the people we get to work with are the real joy of this profession. Together we navigate challenges and opportunities at work, and we also celebrate and grieve with each of you as you navigate the cycles of life. We are more than employees – we are teammates, colleagues, and friends.

Focusing on your mental health is one of the best decisions you can make. Having a healthy and positive mental outlook has both personal benefits, as well as impacts those closest to you. I am proud of the resources we offer at UTSA to support employee wellbeing. Resources include access to meditation apps, selfcare tools, and virtual counseling through EAP and MDLive for benefits-eligible employees. I encourage each of you to explore the wellness resources available at UTSA and make a goal to focus on improving your mental health in a way that is meaningful to you.

Through my highs and lows, I feel supported by the UTSA community and know that I will be accepted and shown compassion. I hope each of you feel the same safe space at UTSA and know that we care about your health and wellbeing.

Sincerely,

Veronica Salazar 
Chief Financial Officer and
Senior Vice President for Business Affairs