April 2024
April Newsletter
Spring is finally here, and with it comes a renewed sense of energy on campus. We have a lot of exciting events and resources to share with you this month, so be sure to read on!
Golden Egg Contest
Enter for a chance to win Free Tuition. Learn More.
2024-2025 FAFSA is Open
Fill your application out now!
TELUS Health App
24/7 access to professional counseling by phone or chat. Learn More.
Featured Articles
Estrella Hall
Texas A&M University-San Antonio is proud to announce the upcoming opening of Estrella Hall, its second on-campus residence hall, slated for Fall 2024.
Women's History Month
During Women’s History Month, 7 women on campus share stories about people who inspire them or their journey.
Oakley Celebration of Life
"He was born to love, trained to serve, and loyal till the end."
Student Counseling Center Open House
The Student Counseling Center is thrilled to announce its new home in Madla 120! To celebrate, they hosted a successful open house event last month, welcoming over 70 community members.
National Money Smart Week
Every April, Money Smart Week empowers people nationwide to take charge of their finances. With various events and resources offered throughout the week, you can gain the knowledge and skills to make informed personal finance decisions.
Denim Day
Wearing Jeans on Denim Day has become a symbol of protest against false and destructive attitudes about sexual assault. Wear Jeans with a purpose
April 24, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
CAB Courtyard
March 2024
March Newsletter
Welcome to the March edition of the Student Affairs newsletter! Spring has officially sprung, and with it comes a renewed energy on campus. We've got exciting events, helpful resources, and of course, wish our students a wonderful spring break.
Women's History and Irish Heritage Month
Welcome to the March edition of the Student Affairs newsletter! Spring has officially sprung, and with it comes a renewed energy on campus. We've got exciting events, helpful resources, and of course, wish our students a wonderful spring break
Featured Articles
TELUS Health App
TELUS is an online student support app that allows you as a student 24/7 access to professional counseling by phone or chat in multiple languages!
San Antonio First Lady Visits Campus
Erika Prosper is commonly known as the first lady of San Antonio, the wife of Mayor Ron Nirenberg. During a guided discussion panel, Prosper discussed the importance of listening, advocacy, and fellowship
Oakley's Paws for a Cause
In honor of our dear Oakley, whose paw prints will forever be imprinted on our hearts, we come together to celebrate the life of an animal who profoundly impacted both his kind and ours. We now extend a helping hand to his kind, the animals who still depend on our support at the Animal Defense League of Texas.
Staff Spotlight
Apefa Cooper, Director of Esperanza Hall, recently won the General Manager of the Year Award with American Campus Communities.
A letter to Mom
Maram Abdeljaber, a kinesiology major and Women’s Soccer athlete at A&M-San Antonio sat down for an interview during Women’s History Month to share her love and admiration for a woman in her life.
Denim Day
Save the Date: April 24, 2024
February 2024
February Newsletter
February is here, and with it comes a month packed with opportunities to make the most of your campus experience!. From celebrating love and friendship to gearing up for academic success, we share campus events and spotlight some outstanding staff members!
New Year, New You
Rec Sports brings you a semester of Fitness TRIFECTA a comprehensive program for overall health!
Spring Self Care
Download now to work through stress, connect with resources, and practice mindfulness.
Featured Articles
Calling All Students
Applications are now open for multiple positions in the Student Government Association. SGA is looking for students who want to improve the student experience.
Student Org Fundraisers
Forget boring fundraisers! This February, student organizations make it easier to show your support (and grab a Valentine's Day gift!). Between classes, browse their creative fundraising events and support your favorite activities.
Let's Ask a Therapist
The Student Counseling Center creates a series of short videos where their licensed professionals take on popular topics and provide helpful support to students.
VSO Home on Campus
Military Affairs welcomes the Bexar County Department of Military and Veterans Services during a special ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating their partnership.
Black History Month
Learn about events and experiences at A&M-SA during Black History Month.
Employee Spotlight
Student Development Coordinator for Student Rights and Responsibilities wins the A&M-San Antonio Employee Spotlight.
LeadershipSA
Texas A&M University-San Antonio employee Clarissa Tejeda joins The Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in the 48th Leadership San Antonio (LSA) class.
December 2023
December Newsletter
As the year draws to a close and we approach the holiday season, we take this opportunity to showcase Jaguar awards, achievements, and celebrations in this newsletter. A&M-SA will be closed for the holiday break from December 24 to January 2. All offices will be closed during this time, and limited services will be available. We encourage all students to use this time to relax, recharge, and spend time with family and friends. We wish you a happy holiday season and a prosperous new year. We look forward to welcoming you back to campus in January for the start of the spring semester.
Featured Articles
Outstanding Senior Awards
We are thrilled to announce the Outstanding Senior Recognition! This award, given semesterly to one outstanding senior, recognizes exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and service to the college community.
Patriots' Receive Graduation Stole
On the 29th of November, we conducted our Patriot Stole Ceremony, which was dedicated to honoring and acknowledging our graduating veterans. It was a privilege for us to organize this significant event, celebrating the achievements of our veterans and extending our congratulations as they embark on a new journey. We are so excited to see 62 of our Jaguar veterans cross the stage proudly wearing our stoles at commencement.
Transfer Ambassador Winner
: Crystal Ramos tells us about her journey of being a transfer student and what it means to win this opportunity to be an ambassador for the students of A&M-San Antonio at the NISTS annual conference in 2024 in St. Louis.
Lopez Scholars Gather to Celebrate
Student Leadership hosted a special dinner for Lopez Scholar families and loved ones to celebrate the students' accomplishments. The evening was also an opportunity to express gratitude for the unwavering support of families and the Lopez Foundation.
National Socienty of Leadership and Success
Our National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) chapter recently held its induction ceremony, welcoming a new cohort of dedicated students into the organization. The ceremony recognizes the achievements of these 65 individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to personal growth and leadership development.
Commencement Fall '23
A momentous occasion awaits our students – Fall Commencement! Please join us in the celebration of our graduates!
December 19, 2023
10 a.m. & 3 p.m.
Freeman Coliseum
November 2023
November Newsletter
As the semester draws to a close, we want to take a moment to reflect on all that we have accomplished this year. We have seen our students grow and learn and are confident they are ready to take on future challenges. In this newsletter, we will highlight some of the fantastic things that our students have been doing. We will also share some vital information about upcoming events and deadlines.
Military Affairs Receives GOLD VERRA
Our Office of Military Affairs was given the Veteran Education Excellence Recognition Award from the Texas Veterans Commission!
JagApp
Official A&M-San Antonio mobile app is NOW available for download in the Apple Store and on Google Play. The University mobile app has a new name.
Read Our Stories
Student Referendum Passes
JAGUARS, THE RESULTS ARE IN! The Student Union Referendum has passed! Details and metrics are in the “SGA Chronicles.”
College Media Association Awards First Place to Student for Best Portrait
Texas A&M University-San Antonio attended this year’s Associated Collegiate Press/ College Media Association journalism conference in Atlanta. Our student magazine, El Espejo, submitted their work and won eight national awards. A First Place Award for Best Portrait was given to Albert Villasana
Welcome our 2023-2024 Jaguar Royalty
Freshman Royal- Jenifer Garcia, Sophomore Royal- Valeria Sumaya, Junior Royal- Minahil Farhan, Senior Royal- Aleah Montes, Jaguar Royals- Fatima Tovar & Brandan Salazar
Student Spotlight
Ruben Reyes has made the most of his time at A&M-San Antonio, from serving as a Jaguar Ambassador to performing with Mariachi Los Jaguares del Sur. Being involved in these and other activities has allowed Reyes to build a strong bond with the University.
Student Regent Application Open
Assist the A&M System Board of Regents with:
Administration and policy direction for the System's 11 universities
Ensure a quality education experience for all students
Promote academic research and technology
Finals Week
Finals week is coming up! Make sure you are prepared for your exams by studying hard and getting a good night's sleep. We are here to help you succeed. Check our Student Resources for your finals preparation.
Fall Self-Care Packet
Student Counseling Center would like to remind students that they offer free and anonymous mental health self-screenings to currently enrolled Texas A&M University–San Antonio students. They have also created a Fall Self-Care Packet for students to work through stress, connect with resources, and practice mindfulness.
Lights of Esperanza
The event blends the cherished holiday lighting tradition to signal the approaching holiday season with new Texas A&M-San Antonio community traditions. The holiday light display contains over 30,000 lights— illuminating the Southside campus and creating a festive atmosphere with food trucks, entertainment for the whole family, a holiday market, and a light show in the CAB Courtyard. We can’t wait to see you there.
November 28, 2023, from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
September 2023
LatinX Heritage Month
Featured Articles
5th Annual Cisneros Student Leadership Conference
The conference will explore the transformative power of active listening in leadership development and community engagement. Inspired by this year's Common Read by Kate Murphy's "You're Not Listening: What You're Missing and Why It Matters," we will delve into the art of effective communication and its impact on fostering inclusive environments.
$1200 Grants Available For Students Who Partake In Internships
Vibe Check with the SCC
A CARE Referral is a student referral to address personal or academic issues and will be handled by Student Rights & Responsibilities. Student Rights & Responsibilities will host CARE Referral training beginning in August. Stay Tuned
August 2023
Welcome Back to School
We're here to guide you through your best year yet!
As we prepare for the Fall Semester, we are excited to share programs, services, and events for our incoming and returning students. We know it can be nerve-racking to memorize your class schedule, read your syllabi, and adjust to a new schedule, but we have some resources for you!
Featured Articles
Weeks of Welcome
Week of Welcome (WOW) is a week-long event that helps new and returning students kick off the new academic year. WOW, events are fun and intended to connect you with campus resources and your new Jaguar family. These programs are key to the Jaguar. Students are HIGHLY encouraged to attend these signature events.
Meet the President
Attend President's Picnic on Wednesday, Aug. 30, from 11 a.m.- 1:30 p.m. on the East Lawn. You will be able to meet President Ochoa as he walks around the event, passing out paletas.
Employment Opportunities
We're excited to announce a series of Career Service events this fall, including career fairs for various professions and a collaborative event with JCPenney for our Suit Up event!
Unite With Others Who Share Your Passions
Here is your time to discover! Involvement Fair allows you to explore student life on campus through its student organizations. Connect with others who share your passions and find your place on campus.
Set Yourself Up For A Stress-Free Semester
The Student Counseling Center has created a self-care packet to guide you through managing stress and practicing self-care.
HACU!Adelante! Leadership Institute
Have you ever wanted to travel? Desire to gain leadership skills? Apply to be one of five students chosen to attend this year's ¡Adelante! Leadership Institute conference in Chicago, IL, from October 28-30, 2023.
Know Your Resources
A CARE Referral is a student referral to address personal or academic issues and will be handled by Student Rights & Responsibilities. Student Rights & Responsibilities will host CARE Referral training beginning in August. Stay Tuned
June 2023
Greetings
Every year, when we complete the spring semester and move towards summer, it is a great time to reflect on the past academic year. A&M-SA celebrated many milestones and successes during 2022-2023. We celebrated our 5th year as an HSI, welcomed our largest first-year orientation class, launched the SA Ready to Work program, and cheered our most recent graduating class this spring as they begin the next stage of their journey. It was a great year to be a Jaguar.
We also have a lot to look forward to for the fall. Most notably, we look forward to welcoming our new president, Dr. Salvador Hector Ochoa, to campus to continue the transcendent work done by Dr. Maria Ferrier and Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson. We are excited to take the following steps under the leadership of Dr. Ochoa and move forward with the mission of education and service that makes A&M-San Antonio unique. We will also be celebrating the university's 15th birthday. This is a special time, and we look forward to sharing the festivities with our community and partners to commemorate the occasion.
We are also extremely excited that two student-centered construction initiatives will move closer to completion. Work will continue on our student recreation facility and our second residence hall. These two projects will transform the student experience and the university. These signs of progress for our students define our mission and commitment to fulfilling the vision from which our university was founded.
We wish you a safe summer as you re-charge for the next semester. You are a part of the Jaguar family, and we look forward to sharing all of the great things at A&M-SA as we progress toward the future.
Mari Fuentes-Martin, Ed.D.
Vice President, Division of Student Affairs
Read Our Stories
Texas A&M Student Affairs Symposium
Salvador Hector Ochoa was named the sole finalist for President at Texas A&M University-San Antonio.
Softball Earns #4 Seed in NAIA OKC Bracket
Esports Chess Team
Summer Activities
Commencement Photos
Outstanding Senior Recognition
May 2023
Jaguar Familia
It is hard to believe that the spring semester is almost over. This has been an excellent year for A&M-SA and its students. The university achieved significant milestones with the 5th anniversary of our designation as a Hispanic Serving Institution and a record student enrollment eclipsing over 7,000. We also entered into a transformative partnership with Texas A&M University Health Science Center and University Health that will support and enrich our community.
Our students have had the most critical opportunities and achievements. Through their participation in student organizations, leadership programming, civic engagement, service learning, and many more co-curricular options. The opportunities to have unique experiences that empower you to realize your potential are foundational to universities and essential to the student. Our Jaguars have done an outstanding job of making those opportunities a reality through participation and contributions.
The end of the Spring semester also brings with it graduation. The things learned in the classroom and the growth outside of the classroom through your engagement will do more than help you reach graduation. They provide a platform for what lies next. You, the person, will take this collective experience into the world and be successful in whatever you choose. The sky's the limit.
Our Jaguar family is growing, as is the impact of our graduates in their communities. We are proud of you!!!
With Jaguar Pride,
Mari Fuentes-Martin, Ed.D.
Vice President, Division of Student Affairs
Read Our Stories
Catalyst
Catalyst is a one-day program hosted by LeaderShape. Participants focus on learning to develop an authentic path, connect to groups and causes they care about, and commit to a plan to be a catalyst for themselves and their groups.
Mays Center Featured in ¡ADELANTE!
The spring 2023 issue of ¡ADELANTE!, the official magazine of Texas A&M University-San Antonio, highlights the aMAYS-ing work the May Center does
Greek Week
The All Greek Council planned and hosted the 2nd Annual Greek Week
Voter-Friendly Campus Designation
A&M-SA Designated a Voter-Friendly Campus by NASPA and Campus Vote Project: A&M-San Antonio was named a Voter Friendly Campus, one of 258 campuses in 38 states and the District of Columbia, by Fair Elections Center's Campus Vote Project and NASPA – Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education. The initiative recognizes institutions that have planned and implemented practices encouraging students to register and vote in the 2022 elections and the coming years. The 2023 Voter Friendly Campus designation aims to bolster colleges' and universities' efforts to help students overcome barriers to political participation – every year, not just during years featuring federal elections. Texas A&M University-San Antonio was evaluated based on a written plan for how we planned to register, educate, and turn out student voters in 2022, how we facilitated voter engagement efforts on our campus, and a final analysis of our efforts.
Ring Day Photos
Students who attend Ring Days this month can download their photos here!
Jaguar Awards
Every year, students, faculty, staff, and families gather to celebrate Texas A&M University-San Antonio’s outstanding student leaders!
April 2023
Jaguar Familia
Last month, we celebrated Transfer Week, Family programs like Spring Fest, and Women's History Month. I was able to spend the month learning about students' families and enjoyed time with my own.
The month of April welcomes families of all varieties to campus for the Festival de Cascarones. The 10th annual Festival de Cascarones has special meaning to A&M-SA. Every time we host the event, it reminds our San Antonio community that A&M-SA is loud, proud, and ready to impact the future positively.
Many of you will attend the Festival de Cascarones for the first time. This tradition spans all Jaguars, and as you celebrate with chicken on a stick and carnival games, remember that an event like this showcases the beauty and bright future of our home and Jaguar Familia.
VIVA A&M-SA & VIVA FIESTA!
With Jaguar Pride,
Mari Fuentes-Martin, Ed.D.
Vice President, Division of Student Affairs
Read Our Stories
FESTIVAL DE CASCARONES FIESTA MEDAL GIVE AWAY!!!
Mari will give away Fiesta medials for Festival de Cascarones this month! Stay tuned and follow us on Instagram to find out how to win! @tamusa.sse
JAG WOMEN ROCK! AWARDS
Learn about Jaguar women honored this year.
MENTAL HEALTH ALLY TRAINING
Thank you to the 65 members of the Texas A&M University-San Antonio community (faculty, staff, and students) who participated in the Student Counseling Center’s “Mental Health Ally” training on Thursday, March 23rd. All attendees were successfully trained in suicide prevention and received a “Break the Stigma” t-shirt, button, sticker, and certificate for their participation. We now have 65 individuals trained as Mental Health Allies on campus!
We look forward to future events and hope to hear from you on how we can continue to create a supportive campus for all.
Cesar E. Chavez March for Justice
The 27th Annual Cesar E. Chavez March for Justice had Jaguars in its crowed.
MONTH OF THE MILITARY CHILD
April is the Month of the Military Child, underscoring the critical role military children play in the armed forces & community. A&M-SA is proud to have more than 400 military children on our campus.
OFF-CAMPUS HOUSING WEBSITE
We have partnered with Apartments.com to make searching for off-campus housing more convenient than ever! If you are a student, faculty, or staff member, sign up using your university email. This website will offer a map-based searching tool to help the A&M-SA community find property listings across San Antonio. Sign up today to explore the unique services you can use on our new Housing Website.
JAGUAR AWARDS NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR 2023
The Jaguar Awards recognizes leadership and involvement in the A&M-SA community. We are seeking nominations for outstanding students and student organizations. All nominations are due by Tuesday, April 11.
BLUE SHIRT SUCCESS
#BlueShirtSuccess is an incentive/recognition measure to celebrate with our students as they get HIRED, find their careers, and take steps toward being career-ready!
FESTIVAL DE CASCARONES 2023
Join us for the annual Festival de Cascarones, the official finale to Fiesta San Antonio, on Sunday, April 30, from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. on campus! Free admission and open to the public. This event will feature live music, food, games, and fun for the whole family - all day! There will be a Kids' Zone for the young ones. The event is pet-friendly. American pop and country singer Cassadee Pope will headline Festival de Cascarones. Save the date now to close out Fiesta San Antonio at A&M-San Antonio!
March 2023
Hola Jaguars
I hope everyone is having a great semester and looking forward to a well-deserved Spring Break. In addition to Spring Break, one of my favorite things about March is celebrating Women's History Month. At A&M-SA, we have events to educate, inspire, and celebrate women's vital role in American history.
I'm incredibly proud to serve at a university that has a strong record of having women in leadership positions. Dr. Maria Hernandez Ferrier and Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson both assumed the ultimate leadership post of the university by serving as the inaugural and second presidents of A&M-SA, helping to shape the institution and position A&M-SA for a future that is bright and prosperous. Our interim president, Dr. Linda Schott, is also an accomplished and capable leader and a scholar of women's history. Many of my colleagues in leadership roles at A&M-SA are women, and we are all proud and humbled to learn from those who have come before us, contribute to the present, and provide a foundation for future women leaders.
Please take some time to participate in the many great events we have planned for Women's History Month on topics ranging from voting rights to women's health and trivia. Visit the Women’s History Month website for a complete listing. I look forward to seeing you there and celebrating women's many contributions and powerful impact throughout history!
Gracias,
February 2023
Shake off the Winter Weather!
After an enjoyable winter break and some intense winter weather, we are ready to shake off the cold and return to the heat of campus life. With a new year, students face new challenges, but when we come together and lift each other, we all succeed. Our team is here to encourage and support our student body.
Please read about some updates to our Student Affairs team, programs that can help support your success, and valuable updates.
I will see you around campus; stay tuned and follow us on social media to see what we have in the works for Black History Month, Student Spotlights, and more.
Mari Fuentes-Martin, Ed.D.
Vice President, Division of Student Affairs
Read Our Stories
Impact Report 2022
Career Fairs All Semester Long
Celebrate Black History Month!
A&M-SA Welcomes Assistant Dean of Students, Director of Cisneros Institute for Emerging Leaders
Important Updates for Military-Connected Students
Great news for students who are eligible to use military benefits! ALL NEW AND EXISTING DEGREE PROGRAMS ARE APPROVED FOR VA EDUCATION BENEFITS. Students eligible for VA Federal Education Benefits can now be certified for all A&M-SA degree programs offered at A&M-SA — including the 11-month MBA program. Students can also request to retroactively be certified for Fall 2022 by submitting a benefit request.
The Men of Color Leadership Summit
December 2022
Seasons Greetings!
I wish everyone in our Jaguar community a warm and happy holiday season. I want to extend a hand of congratulations to our Fall 2022 graduating class. As we enter the holiday break, we take a break, enjoy our family and loved ones, and, most importantly, celebrate big and small achievements. This time of year is when we can collectively gather and reflect. Please read this month's newsletter for some fantastic stories of Jaguars who have walked the stage against all odds, outstanding opportunities for our current students, and gifts given to A&M-SA.
Happy Holiday from the entire Martin family and the Student Affairs staff, and have a great New Year.
Mari Fuentes-Martin, Ed.D.
Vice President, Division of Student Affairs
Read Our Stories
Jaguar Success
Not Too Late to Register
Polling Turnout!
#BlueShirtSuccess
Esports Team WINNER of 2002 Learn & Build STEAM (LABS) program
"Ready" Has New Meaning
November 2022
Happy Fall
Hola Jaguars!
The start of fall has been outstanding, and it was great seeing everyone having a blast at Fall Fest! This past weekend was wonderful seeing so many students participate in Ring Days, and I can not wait to see so many more walk the stage in just a few short weeks.
With the semester in full swing, I know many of our students are immersed in their studies; I want to remind our Jags to take a break, check on their mental health, and reach out to the many support systems A&M-SA provides if they need anything.
You can look forward to Senior Week, Lights of Esperanza, and the long-awaited Thanksgiving break. Please continue to read more about our division's events and services.
With Jaguar Pride,
Mari Fuentes-Martin, Ed.D.
Vice President, Division of Student Affairs
Read Our Stories
Fall Fest 2022
National Night Out Block Party
Theater Club Fans Demand ENCORE
November Photo Dump!
1st GAYLA at A&M-SA
Internship Week Spooktacular
October 2022
Bienvenidos al otono mi Familia Jaguar!!!
We hope you have been able to join us for the fantastic events and celebrations that have been a part of HSI Week: Celebrating Cinco and LatinX Heritage Month. There are still plenty of opportunities to participate and experience LatinX Heritage Month, as official events are happening until October 17th.
Many of our LatinX Heritage Month events illuminate and underscore the importance of community and civic engagement. Recent events, such as PAWS UP Day of Service, provide great opportunities to become involved with Service Learning and connect with our community. Participating in service learning also provides an open avenue for self-reflection and a heightened understanding of how individuals can be a positive and impactful part of their community.
In addition to Service Learning, Civic, and Community engagement opportunities are a great way to contribute to your community. The Mays Center works throughout the year to engage, educate, and encourage voters to exercise their rights and make a lasting impact on their community, region, state, and country. Should you not yet have registered to vote, we can help. Once registered (for Bexar County Residents), you can take advantage of A&M-SA’s designation as a polling site to make your voice heard. Our voices are crucial in shaping the future, and we empower those voices to be impactful by exercising our right to vote.
Con Orgullo Jaguar,
Mari Fuentes-Martin, Ed.D.
Vice President, Division of Student Affairs
Read Our Stories
Veterans Week
National Suicide Prevention Month
Not Too Late to Register to Vote!!
Paws Up! 2022 Recap
September Photo Dump!
September 2022
Hola mi Jaguar Familia!
September is an exceptional month on campus as we celebrate and experience LatinX Heritage Month. Texas A&M University-San Antonio provides not only a link to the rich history and heritage of San Antonio but also serves as a beacon to its future. A&M-SA was founded to make a difference in San Antonio, and our commitment through education, leadership, and community engagement creates a sense of familia.
There are numerous culturally educational and entertaining opportunities to participate in at A&M-SA LatinX Heritage Month. In conjunction with LatinX Heritage Month, we are incredibly proud to celebrate our 5th anniversary of being designated as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). This designation underscores our mission and commitment to intentionally serve LatinX students by providing equitable, high-quality education and experiences. We commemorate this journey with our first HSI Week: Celebrating Cinco.
Among the events scheduled is a multipart series titled T.A.M.A.L.E.S.: Talking About Making all LatinX Experiences Successful. Each opportunity showcases the vibrant LatinX community on campus and in San Antonio while providing beautiful experiences for all participants.
We hope you can join us in celebrating the past five years and what will follow in the coming LatinX Heritage and Celebrating Cinco events.
Con Orgullo Jaguar,
Mari Fuentes-Martin, Ed.D.
Vice President, Division of Student Affairs
Read Our Stories
HSI Week: Celebrating Cinco
#JaguarSucess - Discovering Your Passion
Mental Health in the LatinX Community
Spot Yourself - August 2022
Trunk or Treat Registration Open
Support Delta Chi
Cisneros Leadership Conference
College Recruiter Publishes A&M-SA
9/11 Heroes Run
August 2022
First Week of School!
For new members of the Jaguar Family, Welcome to A&M-SA. Our Student Affairs Newsletter spotlights our outstanding students, community outreach programs, leadership development opportunities, Heritage Months, keynote speakers, and fun events hosted by one of our many student organizations.
We are kicking the Fall off with many back-to-school events for Weeks of Welcome. We encourage you to attend some and immerse yourself in campus life. The Division of Student Affairs takes pride in creating a welcoming and inclusive campus community. As a member of the Jaguar family, we wish you a most enriching and memorable collegiate experience.
We hope this newsletter provides a resource for our friends, faculty, staff, and students to participate in reconnecting with their Jaguar familia.
With Jaguar Pride,
Mari Fuentes-Martin, Ed.D.
Vice President, Division of Student Affairs
Read Our Stories
Week of Welcome - Full Event List
SCC New Coping Skills Group
Jaguar Soccer Schedule (Women's) - Jaguar Soccer Schedule (Men's)
Undersecretary UAIF Visits Campus
Delta Chi Ring Fundraiser
LARGEST Family Orientation
SOLD Recap 2022
June 2022
Happy Summer!
I want to wish everyone in our Jaguar community a wonderful summer break. I want to extend a hand of congratulations to our Spring 2022 graduating class. As another semester ends, I am reminded of our Jaguars' resilience.
I encourage you to reflect on your personal goals during this downtime. The Student Affairs staff will continue reimagining and setting new goals for the academic year. We gather to prepare for the new academic year and reflect on our past.
With that, I will ask you about your personal goals and what we at Student Affairs can do to help you achieve them. Even during the summer, I challenge you to contact our departments for assistance as you work on your goals.
With Jaguar Pride,
Mari Fuentes-Martin, Ed.D.
Vice President, Division of Student Affairs
Read Our Stories
LeaderShape 2022
A&M-SA First Air Force ROTC Graduate
Celebrating A&M-SA's First Student-Athletes to Graduate!
National Society of Leadership
Five softball players named NFCA Scholar-Athletes
May 2022
What is Student Success?
Read our Stories
Student Spotlight
Outstanding Senior Recognition
8 Habits for Establishing a Holistic Well-Being for Students
Military Students Appreciation Month
ead Our Stories
LeaderShape 2022
A&M-SA First Air Force ROTC Graduate
Celebrating A&M-SA's First Student-Athletes to Graduate!
National Society of Leadership
Five softball players named NFCA Scholar-Athletes
April 2022
Viva Fiesta!
As the Vice President of Student Affairs, I have grown to love and value the rich history and new traditions A&M-SA has instilled. With the Ring Ceremony again happening at the end of this month, I want to return to a previous newsletter where I touched on that tradition and talked about some of the rich traditions we have here at A&M- San Antonio.
I want to discuss Fiesta this month, especially the Festival de Cascarones. Our community has desperately missed Fiesta, and we are so excited to celebrate together this year. The 9th annual Festival de Cascarones has special meaning to A&M-SA. Every time we host the event, it reminds our San Antonio community that A&M-SA is loud, proud, and ready to impact the future positively.
Like myself, I know many of you will attend the Festival de Cascarones for the first time. This tradition spans all Jaguars, and as you celebrate with chicken on a stick and carnival games, remember that an event like this showcases the beauty and bright future of our home and Jaguar Familia.
VIVA A&M-SA & VIVA FIESTA!
With Jaguar Pride,
Mari Fuentes-Martin, Ed.D.
Vice President, Division of Student Affairs
Read our Stories
Festival de Cascarones Kick-off!
Celebration of Women's History Month
Transfers Inspiring Transfers
Sexual Assault Awareness Month
Jaguar Success: Feminist Advocacy & Empowerment
March 2022
Make March Meaningful!
I want to spend time on personal wellness in this March newsletter. The Wellness Wheel is very meaningful to the A&M-SA community and me. The Wellness Wheel illustrates a wellness model with seven dimensions: emotional, intellectual, physical, social, environmental, financial, and spiritual. All dimensions are interconnected and important to a well-rounded and balanced lifestyle.
The wellness of our students is integral to student success. Across campus, parts of the Wellness Wheel are embedded in programming, education, and engagement. Physical wellness in our Rec Sports JagFit program or emotional wellness services provided by the Student Counseling Center are all part of the Wellness Wheel. The biggest thing is that we give attention to every dimension of the wheel; without caring for each, we are not giving ourselves overall wellness.
In March, I encourage you to look within your Wellness Wheel and congratulate yourself on your lifestyle balance. If you've attended a Rec Sports JagFit program, celebrate that wellness dimension being met. Then, identify where you can spend some extra time; maybe that's something as simple as attending a Real Talk Series to work on your intellectual wellness.
Enjoy March for all it has to offer you. Please have a safe, wonderful spring break, and read on to see what we have for you when you return.
With Jaguar Pride,
Mari Fuentes-Martin, Ed.D.
Vice President, Division of Student Affairs
Read Our Stories
Student Counseling Center Updates
Student Spotlight
Transfer Week Spring 2022
Choose. Act. Impact
February 2022
Welcome Back!
The winter holidays gave us time to recuperate from a busy fall semester and ramp up for an exciting spring term. Your academic, professional, and personal goals are why we are here to guide you through your college experience.
The Division of Student Affairs comprises more than 50 full-time professionals and numerous student leaders. They are dedicated to serving our students to meet their success goals. We genuinely believe that the entire Jaguar community is in this together, and together, we can make a difference for ourselves and our community.
February's articles demonstrate this in abundance. We have won distinguished awards, welcomed new key players to our team, and served our community through service and civic engagement. These are all examples of our campus community and why being a student at A&M-SA is an impactful experience.
I will see you around campus; stay tuned and follow us on social media to see what we have in the works for African-American History Month, Career Fairs, Student Spotlights, and more. Welcome back to school, Jaguars!
With Jaguar Pride,
Dr. Mari Fuentes-Martin
Vice President for Student Success
Read Our Stories
CAB Takes Home Awards for their Outstanding Work
MLK Day of Service
SGA Fall 2021 Recap
Meet the New Dean of Students
December 2021
Seasons Greetings!
Warm Greetings,
I wish everyone in our Jaguar community a warm and happy holiday season. This holiday season is very meaningful to my family and me. This year has been another of challenges, but our Jaguars stuck together and shined in the face of adversity. I want to especially extend a hand of congratulations to our Fall 2021 graduating class.
I have continued to remind my staff that as we enter the holiday break, take a break, enjoy our family and loved ones, and, most importantly, celebrate big and small achievements. This time of year is when we can collectively gather and reflect.
The Student Affairs newsletter has been news, but now I see it as a virtual scrapbook of student achievements, staff accomplishments, heritage months, and campus fun. Thank you for submitting your story ideas and helping me bring this dream to light.
Happy Holiday from the entire Martin family and the Student Affairs staff, and have a great New Year.
With Jaguar Pride,
Mari Fuentes-Martin, Ed.D.
Vice President, Division of Student Affairs
Read Our Stories
Jaguar Ring Recipients
Transgender Day of Remembrance is Recognized on Campus
Cheers to the New Year with SGA and Dr. Mari (video)
Trunk or Treat Recap
November 2021
Thankful for our Jaguars
So much to be grateful for!
October was packed full of events and opportunities for our Jaguars and community. I attended my first Fall Fest and had a blast celebrating with our newly crowned 2021-2022 Mr. & Ms. Texas A&M-San Antonio, Fayaz Lal & Angela Diaz. As Vice President of Student Affairs, I have grown to love and value the rich history and new traditions A&M-SA has instilled.
Some of our Jaguars will participate in one of those traditions this week while attending the Ring Ceremony. On the eve of each Ring Ceremony, the class rings are stowed in the Dome of the Central Academic Building. The Dome holds the Spirit of the Jaguar. The Jaguar Spirit unifies the connection between classmates, future and current alums, and our beloved Texas A&M-San Antonio. As the sun rises through the east window of the Dome, the Jaguar Spirit is sealed in each band, which lasts an eternity.
As you may have heard, A&M-SA recently received the certification of the Seal of Excelencia from Excelencia in Education for 2021. This certification affirms Senator Madla's overarching vision to serve Latinx students. The seal and its mission reverberate throughout the halls of our campus day in and day out. We will continue highlighting and embracing our rich traditions in serving our Latinx students and the surrounding community.
As the holiday season and graduation approach, I will continue to reflect and explore more Jaguar traditions and share them with you all.
With the semester in full swing, I know many of our students are immersed in their studies; I want to remind our Jags to take a break, check on their mental health, and reach out to the many support systems A&M-SA provides if they need anything.
With Jaguar Pride,
Mari Fuentes-Martin, Ed.D.
Vice President, Division of Student Affairs
Read our Stories
A&M-SA Student Appointed to Disability Access Advisory Committee for City of San Antonio
Veterans Week Nov 10-15
3rd Annual Cisneros Student Leadership Conference
Choose. Act. Impact
Domestic Violence Awareness Month October
Financial Literacy Week Oct 4-8
A&M Writer-In-Residence Launches New Poetry Book
October 2021
Fall in Love with Jaguar Life
Happy Fall!
As we continue to provide a safe and nurturing environment for our campus community, I would like to focus on some of the Division of Student Affairs strategic planning for the future.
First is the Student Affairs Newsletter itself. We want to spend time evaluating how we tell our story, the story of all of our students. Whether that be their well-being, career growth, or personal achievements, the newsletter is an opportunity to highlight those stories for the A&M-SA Community. I encourage you to reach out and share those stories and congratulate the featured students on their achievements.
Next is our programming. Over the past year, we have learned more than ever how important it is to provide engaging and enriching programs to our students. We have focused on holistic well-being through mental health keynote speakers, financial literacy workshops, and active social events for community engagement. Jaguars will have Fall Fest, Trunk or Treat, Transfer Week, and much more to look forward to this month.
As more volumes of the newsletter are released, I will continue to work on providing more beneficial information for our friends, faculty, staff, and students to participate in reconnecting with their Jaguar familia. I wish all of you a wonderful rest of Hispanic Heritage Month and hope to see you on campus soon!
With Jaguar Pride,
Mari Fuentes-Martin, Ed.D.
Vice President, Division of Student Affairs
Read our Stories
What's Happening on-campus during October
Delta Chi Wins Presidents Cup
Jardines y Viviendas del Westside
DAAP Awarded Network Seal of Prevention
Mays Center YOUR NEXT Steps
September 2021
Welcome to a New Semester!
I want to introduce you to our new Student Affairs Newsletter. Stay up-to-date with all the fantastic stories and achievements from the Student Affairs Division. We will spotlight our outstanding students, community outreach programs, leadership development opportunities, Heritage Months, keynote speakers, and fun events hosted by one of our many student organizations.
Volume 1 will highlight our students' remarkable achievements and recognitions from the previous academic year. These outstanding students are shining examples of what is achievable at A&M-SA.
Fall 2021 will be filled with firsts. Returning to campus, we will re-engage with many aspects of university life that create a holistic experience for students and the Jaguar community. Details regarding student programming, departmental updates, and campus news are just some of the upcoming features. All of us will be creating new memories together.
We hope this newsletter provides a resource for our friends, faculty, staff, and students to participate in reconnecting with their Jaguar familia.
With Jaguar Pride,
Mari Fuentes-Martin, Ed.D.
Vice President, Division of Student Affairs
Read Our Stories
BluePrint Fall 2021
What's Happening on-campus during September?
Hispanic Heritage Month
Pride Month 2021 at A&M-SA
"If Not Me......The Who......" 20th Anniversary of 9/11
Who Moved My Happy?
Jag Women Rock Awards bring staff, students, and faculty alike together to Celebrate
Jag Awards Rolls out the Red Carpet for its winners!