WORD the
Summer 2013
The Evolution of Brainpower
Dear Friends:
“A medical school is a natural extension of UIW’s historical Mission in healthcare, which today includes outstanding programs in many fields such as nursing, pharmacy, optometry and physical therapy.”
Even by the fast-paced standards of UIW, the past few months have been a near-blur. Let me give you a brief recap of some of the major events. In early May, the inaugural class of the Rosenberg School of Optometry walked the stage at our doctoral graduation. It was a beautiful ecumenical ceremony before a packed crowd at the Convocation Center that included the school’s namesakes, Sandra and Stanley Rosenberg. Imam Abdur-Rahim Muhammad offered a blessing in Arabic and English. UIW Chaplain Fr. Tom Dymowski provided the homily and introduced Rabbi Mark S. Diamond, who delivered a keynote address full of humor and personal anecdotes. It’s worth noting the historical significance of the graduation, as there are only 20 optometry schools on the United States mainland. Equally as important is that two-thirds of the optometry graduates were minorities, who continue to be severely underrepresented in the optometric profession. Two days later, San Antonio Councilwoman Ivy Taylor served as the keynote speaker at the commencement ceremony for the undergraduate and master’s students before a full house at the Freeman Coliseum. She gave a timely, informative address to the largest graduating class in UIW history. The following day we dedicated the new UIW Brainpower Center for Fencing and International Sports, which is located at St. Anthony Catholic High School. The $4 million center instantly became the toast of the fencing world. Courtney and Kelley Hurley, two sisters from San Antonio who won bronze medals in women’s team epee at the 2012 Olympic Games in London, called it one of the finest fencing facilities they’ve seen. Many people deserve credit for making the Fencing Center a reality. However, let me single out one person who deserves special recognition, Professor Tim Henrich. Several years ago, Dr. Henrich approached me with, as he put it, a “crazy idea” involving fencing at UIW. Through many ups and downs, he remained a staunch advocate for fencing, and often, it was his boundless enthusiasm that allowed the project to move forward at key points in the process. In early June, we dedicated the $8 million Bowden Eye Care and Health Center before a standing-room only audience that included many dignitaries from San Antonio’s Eastside, an area historically underserved by healthcare services. The three-story, 30,000 square-foot facility is named after Artemisia Bowden, who led St. Philip’s for 52 years. The Bowden Center will focus on vision care, although nursing, nutrition and pharmaceutical services will also be offered. Because the center is located in an economically impoverished part of San Antonio, patients will be accepted regardless of their ability to pay. A few days later, our board of trustees unanimously voted to authorize a feasibility study that could result in the opening of a $50 million UIW School of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) in 2016. There is one private medical school in the Southwestern U.S., and there are none located at faith-based universities. In fact, up until this year there were just four medical schools in the U.S. located at Catholic universities (a fifth is opening this fall). And while there are 29 D.O. schools in the country, only one is located in Texas. A medical school is a natural extension of UIW’s historical Mission in healthcare, which today includes outstanding programs in many fields such as nursing, pharmacy, optometry and physical therapy. We chose the osteopathic (D.O.) track instead of the allopathic (M.D.) one for several reasons. While costs are important, we ultimately decided a D.O. program is much more compatible with our Mission due to its holistic approach to care. It stresses prevention, promotion and cure while putting an emphasis on the connection between the body, mind and spirit. Although the feasibility study will be completed by March of next year, the board will spend the next few months investigating possible sites for the school. The final site recommendation will be presented to the board at its meeting in October. I encourage you to read the rest of this issue to catch-up on what else has been happening at UIW, including a profile on Board Member Doyle Beneby, who is president and CEO of CPS Energy. Remember, it’s because of your commitment to our community that we can continue fulfilling Incarnate Word’s goal of offering students the best possible educational opportunities within a context of faith. Please remember an investment in higher education is something that will yield returns for a lifetime for you, your family and our community. Special blessings on you and your loved ones throughout 2013. Best Wishes,
Louis J. Agnese Jr., Ph.D. President
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contents
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Campus News
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The Evolution of Brainpower
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Animating the Future
12 UIW partners with Chinese sweater manufacturer 23
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32 6 Contributing Writers Rudy Arispe ’97 BA Brance Arnold ’10 MA Alex Castañeda ’83 BA Coordinator Brance Arnold ’10 MA Sr. Kathleen Coughlin, CCVI Debra Del Toro Art Director Rebecca Esparza ’99 BBA, Michael Hood ’03 MBA Ashley Festa Graphic Designer Crystale Lopez Marisol Martinez Shane Meling
credits
Managing Editor Debra Del Toro
Dr. Louis J. Agnese Jr. President
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Retiring professors take away memories and leave lasting impressions
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European Study Center completes first year
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UIW football coach set to appear on Animal Planet’s “Catch and Release”
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Rosenberg School of Optometry graduates its inaugural class
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UIW opens the UIW Brainpower Center for Fencing and International Sports
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Alumni aspires to climb Seven Summits
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University Collective
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Class Notes
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New programs available at UIW
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Alumni Events
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Meet the Board
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Moment for Reflection Look for this icon throughout the magazine to find online bonus content.
Lisa McNary ’91 BA,’95 MA Director of Alumni Relations
Sr. Kathleen Coughlin ’67 Debra Del Toro BSN Director of Public Relations Vice President for Institutional Advancement The Word is published by the Public Relations Office of the Vincent Rodriguez University of the Incarnate Assistant to the President/ Word for the alumni, parents, Communications benefactors and friends of the Incarnate Word community.
Cover Photo Steve Holloway This publication is available in alternate format by request. To request an alternate format, please contact the UIW Office of Public Relations at (210) 829-6001.
Board of Trustees Dr. Louis J. Agnese Jr. Charlie Amato Scott Beckendorf Michael Belz Doyle Beneby Gayle Benson Mike Beucler David Cibrian Sr. Martha Estela Perez Curiel Catherine Dulle Veronica Edwards John Feik
Sr. Marinela Flores Gary Henry Sr. Mary C. Henry Winell Herron Gary Joeris Betty Kelso Nancy Kudla Jack Lewis Stephen Lucke Charles Lutz Sr. Teresa Yolanda Maya John Miller
William Moll Carmen Nava Dr. Ramona Parker John Peveto Sr. Annette Pezold Marky Pontius Joseph A. Reyes Bobby Rosenthal Richard Schlosberg Sr. Yolanda Tarango Sr. Gloria Ortiz Villalon
campus news
UIW celebrates Incarnate Word Day and recognizes CCVI Spirit Award recipients On April 8, the UIW community celebrated Incarnate Word Day with its founding congregation, the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word. The annual event was held in observance of the feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Incarnation of the Eternal Word, God. The day’s festivities included a reception on Dubuis Lawn, the Parade of Values: Golf Cart Parade, the Cardinal Carnival, and the presentation of the CCVI Spirit Awards during a Mass in Our Lady’s Chapel. The 2013 faculty recipient of the CCVI Spirit Award was Dr. Mary Beth Swofford, associate professor of English. The award recognizes a member of the faculty, administration or staff who has demonstrated in service to the university and/or to the broader civic community, the spirit of the founders, the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word. The 2013 Student CCVI Spirit Award, presented to a student who is recognized by peers, faculty and staff as living the Mission of the Sisters, was presented to senior Caroline Garcia; it is the highest award a student can earn at UIW. As part of the Incarnate Word Day events, Sr. Margaret Patrice Slattery, CCVI, president emerita, gave a presentation on the origins and history of the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word and Fr. John Markey, O.P., associate professor and director of the Ph.D. in spirituality program at Oblate School of Theology in San Antonio, lectured on incarnational spirituality in the Mabee Library Auditorium.
CCVI Spirit Award recipient Dr. Mary Beth Swofford (left) and her driver for the golf cart parade, Marveen Mahon, UIW director of health services, wave to the crowd.
UIW students get an opportunity to meet with U.S. Congressmen
Hui Opera members perform “Guan Yu Floods Seven Armies” in the Rosenberg Sky Room on Feb. 13.
(Pictured L-R) Co-founder of the Institute for Civility in Government Cassandra Dahnke, U.S. Congressman Lamar Smith (R-TX 21), UIW President Dr. Louis Agnese, U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar (D-TX 28), and Co-founder of the Institute for Civility in Government Tomas Spath pose for a photo in the Grossman International Conference Center (ICC) auditorium. On May 1, the UIW community was invited to attend a Congressional Student Forum, sponsored by the Institute for Civility in Government. During the forum, Smith and Cuellar spoke and took questions from UIW students.
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UIW hosts Legendary Chinese Opera Companies UIW International Affairs, the Institute of World Cultures, the Greater San Antonio Chinese Chamber of Commerce and the Alamo Asian American Chamber of Commerce hosted the performance of two legendary Chinese opera companies, the Hui Opera and Huangmei Opera, in the Rosenberg Sky Room at the McCombs Center on Feb. 13. In celebration of the 2013 Chinese New Year, the performance was an entertaining mix of song, dance and martial arts.
campus news
UIW celebrates the Class of 2013 UIW conferred degrees to graduates at two spring commencement ceremonies on Friday, May 10 and Sunday, May 12. The Friday ceremony held in the Alice P. McDermott Convocation Center honored graduates of the university’s Ph.D. and professional doctoral programs including the inaugural graduating class of UIW’s Rosenberg School of Optometry. The Sunday ceremony held at the Joe and Harry Freeman Coliseum honored undergraduate and graduate candidates. A total of 929 students graduated with 783 walking the stage at the ceremonies. Friday’s graduation featured an interfaith element that represented the diversity of the graduates. Imam Abdur-Rahim Muhammad, Associate Imam of Masjid Bilal Ibn Rabah of San Antonio, Texas and a member of the UIW interfaith council, delivered the invocation at the ceremony for professional and Ph.D. candidates. Fr. Tom Dymowski, O.SS.T., UIW chaplain, welcomed the keynote speaker, Rabbi Mark Diamond. Diamond has served as the Los Angeles Regional Director of the American Jewish Committee (AJC) since 2012. Dr. Adrienne Ambrose, assistant professor of religious studies, gave the invocation for Sunday’s ceremony. San Antonio City Councilwoman Ivy Taylor was keynote speaker. Taylor Julie Bell displays her Alumni has served San Antonio’s of Distinction Award during the District 2 since 2009. Dr. Spring 2013 Commencement Jo LeCoeur, professor of for undergraduate and graduate English, and Dr. Dianna candidates.
(Pictured L-R) Dr. Louis Agnese; Imam Abdur-Rahim Muhammad; Stanley and Sandra Rosenberg, UIW benefactors; and Rabbi Mark S. Diamond share a photo prior to the Spring 2013 Commencement ceremony for professional and Ph.D. candidates.
J. Tison, professor of nursing, were honored with emerita status at the commencement. Theresa Tiggeman, professor of accounting and finance, was awarded the Moody Professorship for 2013-2014. Former Moody Professor Dr. Sally Said, professor of modern languages, presented the university mace to Tiggeman during the ceremony. The 2013 Alumni of Distinction Recipient for Service in Mission was Julie Bell. After graduating from Incarnate Word College in May 1991 with a master’s degree in education, Bell began teaching special education with Northeast Independent School District (NEISD). In 1995, Bell was diagnosed with Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) and by 1998 was forced to quit working full time. Although faced with a debilitating condition, Bell realized she missed teaching. In 2002, she returned to the North East Independent School District full-time, where she continued teaching students with severe and profound handicaps. In 2012, Bell was honored by NEISD as the High School Teacher of the Year of the Special Education Hospital Homebound Center School for her efforts in educating students with disabilities.
Swing-In 2013 With this year’s Sock Hop theme, the 36th Annual Swing-In Auction Party and Golf Tournament was the most successful to date with $338,500 raised for the UIW Scholarship Fund. Approximately 500 guests enjoyed the Swing-In Auction Party on May 2 in the McCombs Center Rosenberg Sky Room and 238 golfers participated in the golf tournament on May 3 at The Republic Golf Club. Thanks to the support and dedication of UIW’s development board members and sponsors throughout the years, Swing-In has raised over $3 million for student scholarships to date. Join UIW for next year’s Swing-In Auction Party on May 1, 2014 and Swing-In Golf Tournament on May 2, 2014. (Pictured L-R) Dr. Louis Agnese, UIW president; Dr. Marian Suarez, development board member and chair of the Swing-In Auction Party; J. Scott Beckendorf, board of trustees member; and Sherry Houston, a friend of Suarez; share a photo at the 36th Annual Swing-In Auction Party. THE WORD | SUMMER 2013 3
campus news
FSOP students and faculty along with Prati-Donaduzzi representatives gather to celebrate a unique partnership at the Rites of Passage event on April 10.
FSOP to partner with Brazilian Pharmaceutical Company Prati-Donaduzzi and Pontificia Universidade Catolica do Parana UIW’s Feik School of Pharmacy (FSOP) is proud to announce a partnership with Brazilian generic pharmaceutical company Prati-Donaduzzi. This partnership is part of a larger collaboration involving Brazil’s university Pontificia Universidade Catolica do Parana (PUC-PR) and San Antonio-based grocer H-E-B. “This is a unique venture within the U.S. pharmacy school arena which has the potential for multi-directional outcomes for UIW’s FSOP, H-E-B and Prati-Donaduzzi,” said Dr. Arcelia Johnson-Fannin, FSOP founding dean. Prati-Donaduzzi will provide eight fourth year pharmacy students (P4) a fully paid six-week industrial rotation at PratiDonaduzzi in Brazil near the great landmark Iguassu Falls. This group of students will be the pioneers in this innovative
venture that bridges education and its application to comparative drug development with a global perspective. Together Prati -Donaduzzi, UIW and PUC-PR will embark on creating the first experiential pharmacy education on regulatory affairs involving the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Brazilian regulatory agency, Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (ANVISA). “UIW is embracing globalization by bringing together eight Brazilian and eight American students. These students will tackle the real world needs of private organizations that need employees who can maneuver through complex regulations in both countries and develop solutions to product registration in Brazil and in the U.S.,” said Dr. Marcos A. Oliveira, associate professor of pharmaceutical sciences, FSOP.
UIW students win ADDY® Awards UIW’s Computer Graphic Arts students took 21 awards: eight gold, four silver, five bronze, and three Student Judges’ Awards, as well as Best of Show at the 2013 ADDY® Awards hosted by the American Advertising Federation – San Antonio (AAF-SA) chapter. Held Feb. 16, the annual event recognizes excellence in the advertising industry presenting the highest ranking agencies and individuals with the prestigious ADDY® Award. Students also compete in a special category judged by a committee of industry professionals and are recognized for their efforts in student advertising. 4 THE WORD | SUMMER 2013
At the banquet, the level of winners in each category was announced. Gold, silver, and bronze ADDYs® were awarded, with those winning student gold and silver ADDYs® being advanced to District Competition. A Best of Show as well as several Student Judges’ Awards were also announced. This year – for the first time – a $200 award was given to each gold winner and $500 awarded to the Best of Show. Four UIW students were also awarded scholarships of $1000 each. The winners include: Travis Burkett, senior, awarded gold, Best of Show and a $1000 scholarship; David Dunn, junior, awarded gold and a Student Judges’
Award; Aaron Gutierrez, junior, awarded gold; Kelly Kirkland, senior, awarded gold; Samantha Cole, senior, awarded silver; Wayne McWilliams, senior, awarded silver; Juan “Milo” Marin, junior, awarded gold, silver, bronze and a $1000 scholarship; Aaron Cervantes, junior, awarded gold, silver and two bronze; Crystal Henze, junior, awarded two bronze; Alex Ruiz, sophomore, awarded a $1000 scholarship; and Michelle Lorentzen, junior, awarded a $1000 scholarship. The 2012 Graphic Design senior class won two gold and two Student Judges’ Awards.
campus news
UIW opens newest ADCaP Center At a grand opening held on March 4, UIW officially opened the newest location of its Adult Degree Completion Program (ADCaP), the Pecan Valley Center, located at 408 Bushick Drive. University and community officials were on hand for the festive event. “The new center provides an affordable college option in an area of town that is surrounded by new growth and progress,” said UIW President Dr. Louis Agnese. “We are equally pleased that the new center is located in the Southeast part of the city, an area that’s been historically underserved by higher education.” The Pecan Valley Center, UIW’s seventh ADCaP site, is the first to be located in the southern part of San Antonio. The 9,000 square-foot facility has four classrooms and a computer lab as well as a student lounge and reception area. It is staffed with a full-time advisor from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Undergraduate classes are held from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Classes began on March 12. Several undergraduate degrees will be offered at the new site including a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with concentrations in management, marketing and general business; Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Development; Bachelor of Arts in Human Resources; Bachelor of Arts in Administration; and a Bachelor of Arts and Applied Sciences. Additional undergraduate and graduate degrees will be added in the future. Applications are now being accepted.
San Antonio’s Poet Laureate speaks at UIW On April 25, UIW welcomed San Antonio’s Poet Laureate Dr. Carmen Tafolla for a presentation in the Mabee Library’s Special Collections Suite. Tafolla’s lecture focused on children’s literature. She is the recipient of numerous awards, including the prestigious Americas Award, presented to her at the Library of Congress in 2010; two Tomas Rivera Book Awards; two ALA Notable Books; a Charlotte Zolotow; the Art of Peace Award; Top Ten Books for Babies and recognition by the National Association of Chicana and Chicano Studies for work which “gives voice to the peoples and cultures of this land.”
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t h e 2013 lat io n s U I W: P re s ide nt ’s H ig h e r C o m mu n it y Se r v ic E e H o n o r R du c atio n o ll R a n ke d in Top 10 by M il it a r y 2013 Be T im e s a s st fo r Vet a s U n ive rs it y Se le cte d a s a m il it a r y-f r ie n M il it a r y d ly u n ive Adva n c e rs it E du c atio n M il it a r y’s 2013 G y in Fr ie n d ly C u ide to o lle g e s & U n ive rs it ie s Na m e d to
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(Pictured L-R) Tom Shaw, president of the South San Antonio Chamber of Commerce; Leticia Ozuna, former councilwoman, City of San Antonio-District 3; and Dr. Louis Agnese, UIW president; share a photo at the ADCaP Pecan Valley Center Opening Celebration. During the celebration, Shaw presented Agnese with a plaque recognizing his membership with the South San Antonio Chamber of Commerce since 2004.
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campus news
UIW hosts Lifelong Health, Fitness, and Learning Through Play Conference
Dr. Joe Frost speaks to the UIW community at the Lifelong Health, Fitness, and Learning Through Play Conference.
Sponsored by the Joe L. Frost Play Research Collection and the Dreeben School of Education, the Lifelong Health, Fitness, and Learning Through Play Conference was held at UIW on April 5. Dr. Stuart Brown, author of a report to Gov. John Connally and the lead psychiatrist writing an exhaustive two-year report with a panel of experts to explain Charles Whitmann’s actions at the University of Texas Tower in 1966, spoke during the event. The keynote speaker for the conference was Dr. Joe L. Frost, UIW’s benefactor of the Frost Play Research Collection at the Mabee Library. Frost has more than 30 years of work on early childhood and children’s play environments. A pioneer in research on play, Brown has worked on behalf of children and their right to play. He is the author of several National Geographic documentaries, several books and many articles. He is also the head of the National Institute for Play, a supporter of the conference, and has recently launched the Encyclopedia of Play Science. “Play is essential to the fabric of life of all healthy children, teens, and adults. The conference offered participants and our community an in-depth look at the importance of play for all ages,” said Dr. Mary Ruth Moore, professor with the Dreeben School of Education. “And it aligns UIW with two of the biggest names in the field of education and medicine.”
Understanding Taiwan
(Pictured L-R) UIW President Dr. Louis Agnese, Taiwan Ambassador Dr. Daniel T.C. Liao, and Vice President for International Affairs Marcos Fragoso share a photo at a luncheon prior to Liao’s presentation. On Feb. 6, UIW’s International Affairs Office hosted a presentation by Liao titled, “Understanding Taiwan: A look into the global position of Taiwan.” In his presentation, Liao outlined the current position of Taiwan, with an eye to the future, focusing on many relevant cultural, political and economic considerations. 6 THE WORD | SUMMER 2013
campus news
Red Goes Green: UIW participates in RecycleMania
Mozart Festival Texas 2013
UIW students took the reins toward sustainability this spring by participating in RecycleMania, an annual competition for universities across the country to help promote waste reduction activities on campus. The initiative occurs over an eight-week period each spring. The amount of recycling and trash collected each week are reported and in turn ranked in various categories based on who recycles the most on a per capita basis. There exists a Competition Division where universities compete against each other, and a Benchmark Division where the university does not compete nationally but internally to bring awareness to the school by setting a collection goal. That’s what UIW’s Student Government Association (SGA) decided to do. UIW students Pompeyo Quesada, president of the student organization SustainUIW, and Joel Pena, Jr., SGA vice president, met in mid-January to discuss a goal for the university. “At first I wanted to do a competition among organizations or housing because I felt that if we want to continue to keep this campus beautiful it starts with them,” said Pena. “Pompeyo thought it was a good idea and saw where I was going but he asked about commuters. After going back and forth bouncing ideas from each other, we thought of the perfect solution; open it up to the campus and have a set goal of 16,000 pounds.” Pena, with the support of the SGA executive council, decided to forego the use of traditional flyers and posters to promote the campaign, instead using social media and meeting with different university organizations to spread the word. SGA, SustainUIW and the UIW Community Garden held a RecycleMania Kickoff to promote the initiative. Collecting recyclable material from Feb. 3 until March 30, the university surpassed the goal of 16,000 pounds. “I am proud of our school for an outstanding job and being aware of what recycling can do for our university,” said Pena.
The third annual Mozart Festival Texas (MFT) will be held again on the campus of UIW in Our Lady’s Chapel from July 26 to Aug. 3. The MFT will feature chamber music and orchestral concerts. The concerts will feature the Mozart Festival Orchestra composed of some of South Texas’ most outstanding professional musicians, including members of the UIW faculty and student music community. On Aug. 3, the audience will delight in a performance of the Jupiter Symphony, K.551, and the Piano Concerto in D Minor, K.466. Conducted by Terence Frazor, the soloist for this concert will be Japanese-Canadian pianist Ryo Yanagatani. Since winning the Gold Medal in the 2009 San Antonio International Piano Competition, Yanagatani has appeared as soloist with the San Antonio Symphony and the Cactus Pear Chamber Music Festival. Billed as “A Major Event in C,” this highlyunique program on July 27 will consist of three important works, all in the key of C Major. Yanagatani and UIW music faculty member Daniel Kobialka will perform Mozart’s Sonata for Piano and Violin in C, K.303. The Artisan Quartet, led by UIW music faculty member Richard Kilmer, will complete the program with the Dissonance Quartet, K.465 of Mozart and Beethoven’s quartet Op.59, no.3. Also on the MFT’s schedule is a solo piano recital by Eugene (Rick) Rowley, one of the most highly respected pianists in the U.S. Rowley has performed extensively throughout Latin America, Europe and North America, and has recorded highly-praised solo discs of the music of Chopin, Liszt, and American composers Aaron Copland and Samuel Barber. In addition to the great C Minor Sonata of Mozart, Rowley will perform works by Ravel, Rachmaninoff, Liszt and Scarlatti on Aug. 2. The festival opens July 26 with the Debut Concert, designed to give performance experience to young artists from San Antonio and South Texas. The program features the Clarinet Quintet, K.581 of Mozart, the First Piano Trio of Johannes Brahms and Beethoven’s Spring Sonata for Piano and Violin. MTF is the brain-child of UIW adjunct professor Terence Frazor, who serves as the festival’s Artistic Director. For ticket purchase or information, contact the UIW Department of Music at (210) 829-3855.
UIW named StormReady® University (Pictured L-R) Campus Police Cpl. John Sanchez, Director of Environmental Health Safety and Risk Management Sam McDaniel, and National Weather Service Warning Coordination Meteorologist Paul Yura pose in front of the Administration Building on April 16. The National Weather Service has recognized UIW as a StormReady® University. StormReady®, a program started in 1999 in Tulsa, Okla., helps arm America’s communities with the communication and safety skills needed to save lives and property—before and during the event. StormReady® also helps community leaders and emergency managers strengthen local safety programs. To learn more, visit www.stormready.noaa.gov/
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cover story
The Evolution of Brainpower By Ashley Festa
Above: Christopher Vasquez at spring commencement. Left: Vasquez pictured with his pre-kindergarten teacher, Terri Harrold ’75 BA, at St. Peter Prince of Apostles School.
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hough he didn’t realize it when he began the journey, Chris Vasquez ’13 Pharm.D. has been working toward this day for the past 20 years. Now 24 years old, Vasquez began his Brainpower Connection schools career at age four, in pre-kindergarten at St. Peter Prince of the Apostles School. This past May, he graduated from the Feik School of Pharmacy (FSOP) with a doctoral degree in pharmacy. “It went by so fast,” Vasquez said. He recalled the words of Dr. J – the students’ affectionate name for Dr. Arcelia JohnsonFannin, the founding dean of the FSOP: “In pharmacy school, the days are long, but the years are short. It felt like forever, but I look back on it now, and it passed in the blink of an eye.” His path wasn’t always straight and narrow. Near the end of his years at St. Anthony Catholic High School (SACHS), Vasquez faced a fork in the road. With a strong background in mathematics and physics, and also a love of science and chem8 THE WORD | SUMMER 2013
istry, he was torn between studying engineering or pharmacy. Then the University of the Incarnate Word opened the pharmacy school in 2006, when Vasquez was a junior. Though he briefly considered other universities, UIW’s offer of $6,000 in scholarships persuaded Vasquez to stick with the Brainpower Connection. Not to mention he didn’t appreciate the idea of becoming a nameless face in an auditorium overflowing with students. The dual credit courses he took as a senior at SACHS also helped solidify his decision; he walked into his UIW undergraduate classrooms with 11 hours of college credits under his belt. Even after he had decided to follow his love of chemistry into pharmacy school, he still felt the tug of engineering. Physics professor Dr. Michael Frye admitted an attempt to change Vasquez’ mind: “I tried to recruit him to engineering since he was a very gifted student, but to no avail.”
Though the choice between engineering and pharmacy might have been difficult, the decision to stay in the UIW system of schools was easy. With his impressive GPA – he graduated in the top 10 percent of his class at SACHS – Vasquez had his pick of any public university in Texas. But the Brainpower Connection felt like home. The biggest benefit, Vasquez said, was its inclusiveness. He fit in with his peers and felt welcome in student organizations. And he saw others being involved too. “It felt like a pretty close-knit group of people,” he said. “Our dorm room was always open, even at 3 a.m. playing Rock Band. Our friends were in our room, rocking out. It was really fun because it united people.” In fact, the camaraderie students establish during Cardinal Camp makes the orientation program Vasquez’ top recommendation for incoming freshmen. The experience helps new students learn about campus life and eases them into the UIW culture of involvement. (Bonus: “They have food, and that’s a great incentive because everyone is hungry in college.”) As a former introvert, Vasquez understands it’s not always easy to be the newbie on campus, especially when high school friends attend other universities. “I know it can be scary to put yourself out there, to do it alone,” he said. “But you’ll quickly realize you’re not alone.” Vasquez decided to start putting himself out there about the time he transitioned from St. Peter to SACHS. He credits his favorite teacher – Robert Niehoff, who teaches history at SACHS – for the change. Despite Vasquez’ timidity, Niehoff helped him come out of his shell. “He was the type of student who made a teacher feel good about his or her career,” Niehoff said. “I remember telling him right before he graduated that he would do well in college because he had both the ability and the attitude necessary to succeed.” Vasquez has indeed succeeded, thanks at least in part to Niehoff ’s outgoing personality.
“He knew a lot of people and just got people to smile,” Vasquez said. “He knew people’s background story. To this day, I try to mirror that personality. I would walk down the halls of the pharmacy school and ask how people are doing and give them a high five.” Little did he know being an extrovert would serve him well professionally. A friendly, open demeanor encourages customers to relax and feel comfortable talking to their pharmacist. He accepted a community pharmacist position at Walmart, where he’ll move around between stores, getting to know the people of San Antonio, Seguin, Uvalde and other areas. “I like talking with people and learning their stories,” he said. “I started doing that in pharmacy school. I became close to some of the P2s and P3s (students in their second and third year of pharmacy school). It’s really important to make conversation and see their motivation and see what they’re going through.” Even though he has flown out of the Cardinal’s nest, Vasquez still plans to be involved as an alumnus. Among his plans? Bragging about his alma mater to other students. “I always wanted to go back to St. Anthony and tell people about how cool pharmacy school is.” q
Top, right: Vasquez with the BEST Club (Boosting Engineering Science and Technology) during his senior year at SACHS. The club competed and won first place by constructing a robot from selected equipment. Above: Vasquez blesses an animal during the Feast Day of St. Francis while in high school. Right: Vasquez pictured with the UIW Pre-Pharmacy Association during a Habitat for Humanity event in 2008.
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alumni
Animating the Future By Brance Arnold ’10 MA
Adam Watkins (left), associate professor of Computer Graphic Arts, assists a team of advanced students with a game design during class.
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t a very young age, both Jacob Green ’10 BA and Matt Tovar ’08 BA held a deep passion for all things art, but never knew growing up how they could parlay their love of artistic pursuits into careers. By a touch of fate, each found the answer as students of the University of Incarnate Word’s (UIW) Computer Graphic Arts (CGA) program. “Almost all of my favorite things to do growing up either involved art, video games, or science, but I never knew what I would be able to do to make a living,” said Green. While attending New Braunfels High School, Green took a digital graphics and animation class that would serve as the spring board for his future. At the Austin Student Digital Film Festival, he won a scholarship to attend a summer course from the Digital Media Academy at the University of Texas at Austin. Serendipitously, this experience was the catalyst for introducing Green to UIW. “It was there where I met Adam Watkins, head of the 3-D animation half of the CGA program, who happened to be teaching the intro 3-D course,” explained Green. “He saw I had an interest in the field and told me about the CGA program at UIW.” As a result of this chance encounter, Green applied to UIW to pursue his ambition of becoming a CGA graduate. Like Green, Tovar’s early love of art also led him down the path to UIW’s CGA program.
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“I was always interested in art as a kid,” said Tovar. “I was always drawing in my notebook but to be honest I never really thought about pursuing it as a career.” It wasn’t until his brother’s friend, who worked in the industry, sought help one summer that he decided on animation. Tovar was a student at another university, but after assisting the friend, he did some research and made up his mind. “I heard about UIW’s CGA program and so I transferred my sophomore year,” said Tovar. While in the CGA program, both Green and Tovar met students who shared their interests and aspirations. They collaborated with classmates to turn out high quality work and continually learned new things, not just from the faculty, but from their peers. “It was a great learning environment that fostered a lot of growth and success which was taught by CGA faculty who were all active industry professionals,” Green said. “UIW taught me that you have to get other eyes on your work. It was great working in a classroom setting with others that share the same interest and passion towards animation. We would bounce ideas off each other as well as help critique one another’s work because even the person giving the critique is learning,” shared Tovar. Green and Tovar learned 3-D modeling, rigging for games, animation, film, character design, sound design, game development
and design, basic programming and many other elements to complete a well-rounded curricular experience. Green attended seminars featuring professionals who worked at local design and animation studios as well as representatives from Pixar and other major studios in the industry. Following graduation, Green moved straight into a career at Los Alamos National Laboratory in Los Alamos, N.M., where he has worked for the past four years. At the laboratory, he works with a team that has created a studio designing movies and video games for the purposes of training, education and familiarization. His team has worked for clients such as the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to create virtual libraries of machinery and equipment as well as design fictional nuclear facilities used by students and nuclear security personnel. Currently, the team’s biggest project is creating a video game that allows the Los Alamos Fire Department to virtually tour and run exercises at high-hazard facilities. Due to Watkins’ own work with the laboratory, Green said they have almost exclusively hired students and graduates of UIW’s CGA program. During Tovar’s senior year, he received an internship at 1080 Entertainment in San Antonio. Since that time, he has worked for Sony Computer Entertainment of America, Sony Pictures Imageworks, Infinity Ward and Naughty Dog. Now a resident of Los Angeles, Calif., Tovar has worked on films such as “Green Lantern” and “The Amazing Spider Man” as well as video game projects such as “Uncharted 2,” which received the Game of the Year Award by the Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences, “Socom 3,” and, most recently, “Call of Duty: Ghosts.” “Green Lantern was pretty special to me,” Tovar said. “It was my first feature film and my first time living in L.A., the hub of the animation industry. My name was displayed on the big screen for the first time.” Now professionals in their field, the two credit much of their success to the education they received at the university. “My education at UIW has been vital for me and the work I do. I utilize everything I learned in the CGA program. It was also critical to my pursuit of a family,” said Green. “Without the salary and benefits I receive working at Los Alamos, it would have been extremely difficult for my wife and I to start a family, which we did, and now are proud parents of a two-yearold little girl.” Alumnus Jacob Green at Los Alamos Canyon in New Mexico. Green works for Los Alamos National Laboratory as a 3-D animator.
Alumnus Matt Tovar enjoys some sun in San Diego, Calif. Tovar resides in Los Angeles where he works as a 3-D animator. “Once I started working in the industry, I realized that all those late nights I was doing homework really prepared me,” Tovar shared. “The 3-D program didn’t just help teach me animation; it also taught me the other departments of CG.” As UIW continues to grow and evolve, so does its School of Media and Design, which houses the CGA program. Though UIW has had a well-developed 3-D animation and game curriculum for several years, a new Department of 3-D Animation and Game Design (ANGD) has been created to offer a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation and Game Design this fall. Watkins, founding coordinator for the CGA program, serves as the coordinator for the ANGD program. He said the program will prepare and provide graduates with the work ethic needed to succeed. “Our program helps students understand all aspects of 3-D animation for film, TV, game design and production processes, but by the time a student graduates, he or she will have focused on one particular aspect they’ll need to be competitive,” said Watkins. The AGND department will have two distinct tracks that share a common 3-D core of classes, 3-D Animation and Game Design and Production. These two industries have a high demand for competent and trained animators. “As early as 2007, more than half of the top 20 movies were partially or totally animated,” said Watkins. “Video game companies employ more than 120,000 people in 34 states, with Texas being among the top five.” The new degree program will further broaden UIW’s appeal to students who aspire to be animators. “With virtually no local or regional competition in the 3-D area, UIW is a very attractive destination for animators,” said Watkins. q To learn more about the 3-D Animation and Game Design (ANGD) program, visit UIW’s School of Media and Design at http://www.uiw.edu/simd/
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feature
UIW partners with Chinese sweater manufacturer By Rebecca Esparza ’99 BBA ‘03 MBA
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simple presentation in late 2011 by Dr. Melinda Adams, UIW associate professor of fashion management to the San Antonio Economic Development Board, set into motion a chain of events that would eventually make history for the university. Representatives with Chinese sweater manufacturer Shantex Group were in the audience, scouting various locations for a planned factory. A year later, Shantex officially chose San Antonio to build their factory, but they had a unique idea for a partnership that included UIW. By January of this year, the Fashion Management program was formally asked about creating an educational partnership with Shantex. The agreement allows UIW fashion students to supply sweater designs to the Chinese garment makers. In return, UIW students will be provided internship opportunities at the company and receive hands-on, real world experience in the fashion industry. At a ceremony held on April 22 at the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter, UIW President Dr. Louis Agnese signed a memorandum of understanding with Bingguo Liu, chairman and general manager of Yaqi Yantai Textile Co., Ltd on behalf of the Shantex Group LLC. “We hope this will be a long and fruitful partnership for everyone: UIW, Shantex, and most important of all, our students,” noted Agnese. The alliance would not have been possible without Bexar County Economic Development (BCED), which worked tirelessly for three years to entice the Chinese company to build in San Antonio. Tracy Avery ’96 BA ’12 MBA, market researcher at the BCED, described the partnership between UIW and the Shantex Group as company goals, UIW fashion department goals and BCED goals all overlapping at the same time. “We were promoting the area and what it had to offer in terms
(Pictured L-R) Bingguo Liu, chairman and general manger of Yaqi Yantai Textile Co., Ltd., and Dr. Louis J. Agnese. Jr., UIW president, prepare to sign a memorandum of understanding at a ceremony held on April 22 at the Marriott Rivercenter Hotel. 12 T H E W O R D | S U M M E R 2 0 1 3
UIW’s Institute of World Cultures Lion Dance Team perform at the Shantex ceremony.
of manufacturing, workforce and education. UIW was one of the area organizations the Chinese delegation met with on multiple visits over approximately 2-3 years,” she said. According to Avery, Adams saw the unique opportunity for real world experience for her students and the Shantex Group saw the benefit of a philanthropic relationship to help establish their U.S. headquarters. “Partnerships like this do not happen often,” admitted Avery. “A lot of people came together to ensure that UIW and the Shantex Group’s best interests were represented. The partnership has long term potential that will help to further differentiate UIW programs from other schools.” Agnese agreed, adding: “These collaborations represent opportunities for our students to receive additional internship experiences. That will help them immensely when they’re looking for jobs in the future.” As UIW’s facilitator of the program, Dr. Catherine Studak, director of UIW’s fashion management program, said she will ensure students receive the best fashion education, as well as serve Shantex in the best possible way. “As they grow their business in the U.S., Shantex foremost wants us to develop designers and merchandisers for possible employment and for internships. Shantex also wants us to develop a certification program for their employees. The purpose is to learn how to work within the U.S. fashion business environment for design, production, distribution and merchandising of fashion products,” she added. “Because of this partnership, we are able to directly connect educational opportunities with employment opportunities,” Studak said. “We will be able to provide both student designers and student merchandisers a learning experience in real time. We will have direct access to manufacturing processes, be able to create real life product development projects for garments that could actually be manufactured.” In fact, sweater patterns were provided to Shantex by UIW and seven were chosen for manufacturing. The first sweaters manufactured were featured at UIW’s Cutting Edge Fiesta® Fashion Show. UIW student Emilia Silva won the Shantex Award for her design which will be manufactured and sold in North America. q
Winning designs hit the runway at the 2013 Cutting Edge Fiesta® Fashion Show The 2013 Cutting Edge Fiesta® Fashion Show, held in memory of Kathleen Watson, drew a record crowd of over 900 guests to the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter on April 22. The annual event is a showcase for seniors of UIW’s fashion program who illustrate, design and construct the garments. The show is produced entirely by students. UIW senior Ashley Pugh won the top awards taking home the Kathleen Watson Award for Best of Show as well as first place in construction and first place design for her collection titled “The Wedding Party.” Pugh’s spring bridal collection included a wide range of silhouettes from sleek, long gowns to short, cocktail dresses with careful attention spent on detail and craftsmanship. The Kathleen Watson Award for Best of Show is determined by the garment scored highest by a panel of judges and includes a $1,500 scholarship from the Watson Foundation. Construction and design awards were also given. The third place winner for construction was Shatorria Whitener, third place winner for design was Ana Leija Yamamoto and second place for construction and second place for design were both awarded to Chasity Taylor. The student designers featured in the 2013 show were Celia Alecozay, Courtney Casares, Nabil Gomez, Ana Sylvia Legarreta, Ashley Pugh, Chasity Taylor, Genevieve Truscott, Shatorria Whitener and Ana Leija Yamamoto. Anniegogglyn, owned and operated by UIW alumna Allison Young, provided jewelry for the show’s models and designers. Gay Isber of The Sugar Factory, located in Austin, provided statement jewelry pieces from her runway collection and showroom to accentuate the designer garments. The Cutting Edge Fiesta® Fashion Show is an official Fiesta® event. Guests at this year’s show included Miss Fiesta San Antonio Victoria Flores and Larry Benson, El Rey Feo LXV. Proceeds from UIW’s Cutting Edge Fiesta® Fashion Show provide scholarships for UIW fashion management students. Since 2006, the fashion show, its sponsors and supporters have awarded more than $45,000 in scholarships to students. q
Samantha Plasencia: An Eye for Fashion By Rebecca Esparza ’99 BBA ‘03 MBA
As a young child growing up in Seguin, Samantha Plasencia ’08 BA had a special passion for the arts. “Being creative and coming up with innovative ideas was all I knew. My father was the most creative person, coming up with a method to create new and fascinating art,” she recalled. Armed with a degree in fashion management and her gift for the “dark side of fashion,” Plasencia recently had the honor of participating in the prestigious Plitzs New York City Fashion Week. “It’s hard to explain the feeling of showcasing with people from all over,” she said. “Coming together to showcase our creativity was exciting.” The experience was exhilarating and she’s already preparing for next year. Meanwhile, she’s continually pushing herself to think differently and allow herself to become inspired by the simplest things. “It forces the eye to see something in a different way. It takes more than the love of fashion to be a designer. My entire day consists of critiques, ideas, new concepts and creative thinking,” Plasencia said. Success doesn’t happen overnight in the fashion industry, she acknowledged. But she’s fully committed to the hard work and dedication needed to keep up with the ever-evolving fashion industry. “It’s awesome to see how far I’ve grown in myself and as a designer. Fashion and design will always be a part of my life whether 10 years or 30 years from now. “ The first six months of 2013 have been a whirlwind for Plasencia: from her first showcase outside Texas to interviewing for the next season of the hit television show, “Project Runway” on the Bravo network. “I went to Seattle to interview with Tim Gunn of Project Runway. I had a week’s notice to prepare and when I showed up, it was all negative feedback,” she lamented. Plasencia said Gunn wanted to see pieces from her New York showcase but she had undermined herself by not bringing the “crazy stuff.” “He said I needed to work 10 times harder and come back next year. There were people trying out for the fifth time, with pieces they’ve kept for years! I cried the entire cab ride home. It gave me time to reevaluate the time I put into my design work.” But Plasencia said she’s grateful for the life-changing learning experience. “I’m glad I was shot down. It’s made me work harder and become a stronger person,” she said. “If designing was easy, everyone would be amazing at it. You really need positive and negative feedback to make it in this industry. If it’s something you can’t handle…this isn’t the life for you.” q To view Samantha Plasencia’s designs online, visit: www.modelmayhem.com/1029607 and www.facebook.com/samantha.plasenciadesign. Follow her on Twitter at www.twitter.com/samplasencia. T H E W O R D | S U M M E R 2 0 1 3 13
faculty
Retiring professors take away memories and leave lasting impressions By Crystale Lopez
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he University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) bid farewell to two remarkable professors this spring. Dr. Dianna Tison ’64 BSN, assistant professor in the Ila Faye Miller School of Nursing and Health Professions, retired after 42 years at UIW, and Dr. Jo LeCoeur, professor of English in the College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (CHASS), also began her retirement concluding 36 years of teaching and service. “It took a while to come to the decision to retire since I enjoyed working with the students and seeing them achieve their successes,” Tison shared. “However, there comes the time you have the realization that excellence in the UIW Ila Faye Miller Nursing program will continue as we have been fortunate to hire very talented and dedicated faculty that will continue the program and vision for the future.” Tison and LeCoeur were also awarded emerita status. This title of respect acknowledges their retirement and recognizes the contributions they have made to the university. Throughout her tenure at the university, Tison has touched the lives of many students and her colleagues. She was also instrumental in the success of the nursing program. “Dianna was a team player who turned challenges into innovative opportunities,” said Dr. Jennifer Cook, associate professor in the School of Nursing. “She was very willing to do the research and follow through on creative problem solving. She can be described as a ‘champion web surfer’ who enthusiastically brought forward ‘whatif ’ and ‘let’s try this’ approaches.” Dr. Julie Nadeau, assistant professor and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program chair, said Tison also facilitated students’ initial transition into the professional nursing role. “She always encouraged students to consider the individual patient as a biological, psychosocial and spiritual human being – not as a disease or diagnosis,” Nadeau said. Tison said it was a joy to encourage young minds to expand
1: Dr. Dianna Tison in the late 1960s. 2: Tison in the early 1960s while completing her BSN at UIW, then Incarnate Word College. 3: Tison (right) and daughter Mary Carol ’92 BSN. 4: (Pictured L-R) Dr. Kathi Light, provost; Sr. Teresa Stanley, CCVI; Dr. Louis Agnese, UIW president; Dr. Hector Gonzalez, friend and former colleague of Tison; Dr. Mary Hoke, dean of the Ila Faye Miller School of Nursing and Health Professions; and Dr. Dianna Tison, assistant professor emerita of nursing; share a photo at Tison’s retirement party.
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their knowledge and use their talents in a calling that provides important services to mankind. “Hearing of the success of graduates and meeting them in the community is what I enjoyed most about being a professor,” she shared. “All of my students are famous in their own special way to those they care for in the many settings they practice.” Cook said she has many great memories of working and teaching with Tison. “I think her positive attitude about the actual and potential capabilities of learners has been a highlight for me,” she said. “She has a way of looking at student barriers to success as what can be done differently to assist them to be successful.” Tison said she will greatly miss her colleagues in teaching and the wonderful “sharing of knowledge” atmosphere that exists at UIW. For LeCoeur, stepping into the role of professor was not an option. “God gave me free will in every life choice except the decision to become a professor,” LeCoeur said. “Teaching was my calling.” Making UIW her permanent home seemed reinforced through a sign from above. One evening during a fierce storm, the rain was making her homesick for New Orleans. “As I began to think about going back to Louisiana, my office suddenly filled with an atomic burst of light and thunder shook the walls,” she said. “Two stories above my head, the cross atop the UIW Administration Building had been struck by lightning. That was memorable.” Dr. Bernadette O’Connor, professor of philosophy in the CHASS, had the privilege of working with LeCoeur for 23 years. She said over the years LeCoeur served in all the ways faculty are required to, but touched her colleagues most deeply by sharing her poetry. She also had two great effects on her students. “First, she has the poetic gift, and by giving students semester after semester, in class and in personal conferences, access to her poetic spirit, she, in turn, gifted and inspired them,” O’Connor said. “Her second great effect on her students was to teach the discipline requisite for writing – and indeed, for living – well in her students.” LeCoeur said the UIW Mission influenced her teaching with daily reinforcement of lifelong learning. “The UIW Mission Statement commits us to ‘educational excellence,” O’Connor said. “Those words are so common that they can become meaningless, but for Dr. LeCoeur they were not just words; they set the standard she always tried to achieve, for herself and for her students.” Although Tison and LeCoeur have retired as full-time professors, they each intend to continue pursuing their goals. Tison plans to continue teaching part-time through UIW’s RN to BSN program online. LeCoeur will continue writing and reading performance poetry. “As a lifelong learner, one never meets all their goals; we just keep setting new ones,” Tison said. q 1: Dr. Jo LeCoeur pictured in 1993. 2: LeCoeur with alumna Myriam Hundere in the late 1980s. 3: LeCoeur (center) visits with former UIW president Sterling Wheeler and his wife Dot in the late 1970s. 4: LeCoeur pictured in 2012.
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international
European Study Center completes first year By Debra Del Toro
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ast fall, a pioneering group of college students set out for a new adventure in Heidelberg, Germany, as the inaugural class of the UIW European Study Center (ESC). The students discovered a bustling city where 40 percent of the near 150,000 residents are students and education is one of the top industries. The ESC which was started through a partnership between the University of the Incarnate Word, CEPA (Cultural and Educational Programs Abroad) Europe and SRH University Heidelberg, offers students the opportunity to take courses from UIW professors while abroad. Located in Germany’s second sunniest city, in one of the most picturesque neighborhoods, the center is housed in historic Villa Krehl built in the early 1900s. The city of Heidelberg is rich in history and tradition. It is the largest German city to have escaped bombing during World War II. As a result, much of the original architecture and landmarks exist to this day, offering students a rich cultural experience. “I always wanted to study abroad. My heritage is German so I thought it would be neat,” said junior Garrett Townzen. While the majority of the students in the program have been from UIW, the center is open to any college student looking for a study abroad experience. In the fall, the group was comprised of eight students from UIW, three from The College of New Jersey (TCNJ), one from Quinnipiac University in Connecticut and one student from Universidad de Monterrey (UDEM). In the spring, the second group to participate consisted of six UIW students and three from TCNJ. Ultimately, the program facilitators would like to see the center reach its full capacity of 200 students. “This is a really unique chance for students to step out of their comfort zones and learn more than they can from books alone,” said Marissa Bennett, European Study Center recruiter. “We hope that as students return to their respective campuses and talk about their experiences, that other students will be encouraged to take advantage of the oppor-
(Pictured L to R) Brody Rodriguez, David Craig and Evan Morris share a laugh in the ESC computer lab.
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The entry to the European Study Center at Villa Krehl. tunity to see Europe while earning college credits.” Regardless of where they originated, the ESC students found a common experience and enjoyed learning together and from each other. While some were nervous about a language barrier before their trip, their anxieties were short lived. “As soon as we got here, we realized it wouldn’t be a problem,” said junior Evan Morris. “There were a lot more English speakers than I expected.” In fact, 10 percent of the population in Heidelberg is American. The U.S. Army has had a presence in Heidelberg for decades, bringing countless Americans to the city. Though the Army base began relocating to Wiesbaden in 2012, their presence has influenced the local population. With its central location, the ESC is the perfect choice for individuals wanting to study and explore Europe. In a short four to five hour trip, students can visit Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, Zurich or Munich. Prague, Milan, London and Vienna are only six to eight hours away from the city. “What’s cool about it, is it’s centrally located,” said Morris. “It’s so easy to travel from country to country. With long weekends, there are a lot of excursion opportunities,” added Townzen. A variety of excursions are included each semester with additional field trips available as well. While being away from home can be tough, the students shared holiday traditions to avoid homesickness. The fall students hosted a Halloween party and shared a traditional Thanksgiving dinner complete with a football game on the lawn. They also enjoyed lo-
cal traditions and boasted waiting hours to be the very first group served at the 2012 Oktoberfest festival in Munich. Many students would like to study abroad but worry it isn’t possible with their busy schedules. “It’s only four months,” said Morris. “In the scheme of things it’s not long at all. And it gives your parents an excuse to visit.” Junior Brody Rodriguez is a perfect example of a busy student who didn’t let the chance to study abroad slip by him. A member of UIW’s tennis team, he fit his study abroad semester between tennis seasons. But with the spring season starting soon after his return, he sought opportunities to stay on top of his game. “I had to find courts to practice,” said Rodriguez. As part of the partnership, ESC students are also able to use the workout facilities at SRH for a small fee. The students acknowledged that movies and television shows like “Taken” and “Locked up Abroad” feed a fear that studying abroad is dangerous but they dismiss the idea. “I think it’s safer than the U.S.,” said Rodriguez. “You’re in really good hands,” said Townzen. “Because you’re traveling in groups, you’re never alone,” added Morris. This fall will mark the second year for the ESC. Any university level student may apply for the program and scholarships are available. In an overwhelming show of commitment to supporting UIW students wishing to obtain a life-changing study abroad experience, the university has established the new Global Experience Travel Award or ‘G.E.T. Award’. This award offers UIW students the opportunity to receive up to $2500 towards a full semester or $1500 towards a summer session. Internship opportunities are also available for students to gain invaluable resume-building work experience in Germany. “This is the biggest adventure you can go on,” said Morris. “It was the greatest semester of our lives,” added Rodriguez. q For more information, visit: http://studyabroad-germany.eu.
ESC students enjoy a cool afternoon in the garden.
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alumni
Jake Zweig (right), assistant football coach, on location with fellow competitors of Animal Planet’s upcoming reality series, “Catch and Release.”
UIW football coach to appear on Animal Planet’s “Catch and Release” By Shane Meling
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hat have you been doing with your spare time? Former Navy SEAL and current UIW assistant football coach Jake Zweig has gone into survival mode… literally. Zweig recently finished shooting the first season of Animal Planet’s new reality television show “Catch and Release.” He is one of the show’s five participants with a chance to show off their survival skills in some extreme conditions. The Associated Press recently reported a story about the show calling it a “back-to-nature game show that makes ‘Survivor’ seem as tame as a round of ‘Jeopardy.’” The premise of the show is that the group of five participants selects one among them who is then blindfolded and dispatched to a remote, unexpected location to fend for himself. He has 100 hours to find his way back to civilization or he loses the game. This is the second reality-themed show in which Zweig has
appeared. He was also on season three of the History Channel’s “Top Shot.” Zweig sees “Catch and Release” as a way to market the university and the football program. The show focuses heavily on the fact that Zweig is a UIW football coach. “When I went to the show to negotiate with them, I said that I have to be able to wear UIW gear,” said Zweig. “The producer of the show said, ‘listen, this is who he is; this is his life,’ so they have done a great job of working it in that being a football coach is my career.” Zweig has big goals for his football coaching career and would like to combine his experience. Eventually, he would like to be a college football head coach and have a reality show based on his football program. He believes that a show based on a football program would mean big business for an institution.
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While his time on “Catch and Release” is not the same as having a reality show following an entire football program, Zweig believes that exposure on the show will have a positive effect on the entire university. Prior to joining the staff at UIW, he coached at both University of New Hampshire and Bryant College in Rhode Island. “The school websites were receiving more traffic and applications went up after I appeared on ‘Top Shot,’” said Zweig. As part of the show, Zweig and UIW coaching buddies Kyle Kennan and Michael Briglin were filmed while coaching. The show features plenty of authentic Cardinals gear and equipment in the football segments, including a staged football practice, and will give UIW fans a little extra incentive to watch the show. The schedule for “Catch and Release” has not been determined but it could be as early as October or as late as January. One of Zweig’s favorite parts of the show was just getting to hang out with the other four competitors – Matt, a world class triathlete from Utah; Tom, an older man who teaches survival skills around the globe; Terry, an active duty Green Beret who is still serving in the National Guard; and John, a British survival expert with the British military. The competitors traveled around the world to different remote locations. In each spot only one man was sent in while the other four remained in the command center to monitor the situation. The competitors never knew when their turn was next because they were chosen by the most recent competitor. “Reaching the goal of getting back to civilization is the best part,” said Zweig. “We all have big egos and none of us want to fail.” q
UIW women’s basketball head coach assumes administrative role Long-time UIW women’s basketball head coach Angela Lawson has moved into an administrative role after 13 years with the program. On April 3, it was announced that Lawson had accepted the position of Associate Athletic Director Academic Services and Senior Woman Administrator for UIW. “With our move to Division I, I just felt like it was the right time to make a change,” said Lawson. “I am very appreciative of Dr. (Lou) Agnese, Dr. (David) Jurenovich and Mark Papich for giving me the opportunity to be the head basketball coach 13 years ago and continue to be thankful for the chance to further my career at UIW.” Lawson compiled a 191-174 record to set the program record for career wins. She guided the Cardinals to a Heartland Conference championship in 2009 and had five other teams reach conference tournament finals. She was named the Heartland Conference Coach of the Year in 2010. q
Kyle Kennan (left), assistant football coach, and Zweig (center), prepare for a staged UIW football practice with “Catch and Release” cast and crew members.
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alumni
The inaugural class of RSO gathered at the Hooding Ceremony on May 9 in the McCombs Center Rosenberg Sky Room.
Rosenberg School of Optometry graduates its inaugural class By Brance Arnold ’10 MA
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n May 10, the University of the Incarnate Word’s (UIW) Rosenberg School of Optometry (RSO) made history by graduating its inaugural class at the Spring 2013 Commencement ceremony held in the Alice P. McDermott Convocation Center. Earning their Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) degree, the Class of 2013 was comprised of 58 students from 17 states and several countries including Canada, Mexico and Nigeria. Since RSO’s inception in 2009, these graduates have established and built a reputation of excellence as vision care providers and have set the bar for future RSO students. “The Class of 2013 will forever hold a special place in history as the inaugural class,” said Dr. Andrew Buzzelli, dean of the RSO. “These graduates are pioneers of optometry and the university.” Indicative of the perseverance and resilience of the Class of 2013 are the seven students who graduated with honors. The valedictorian of the inaugural class was Samantha Susan Rieger and co-salutatorians were Briteny Brunner Allison and Martin Vicente Diaz. Buzzelli said some of the students plan to return to their home states and countries to practice but many will practice in Texas as licensed optometrists. Allison plans to join a general practice in rural northeast Texas and Diaz will head to Vermont to complete his residency in primary care at the White River
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Junction VA Medical Center. Rieger, who plans to serve the nation as an optometrist and Captain in the United States Army, said the inaugural class members were trailblazers in establishing the RSO program. “This program was formed around and by the Class of 2013,” said Rieger. “We identified strengths and weaknesses in curriculum, clinics and extracurricular clubs and activities and were able to help shape the future of the RSO.” For Diaz, it meant a great deal to be among such a pioneering group. “I like to do things differently and get an experience that no one else will, and pave new ground being a part of the first class,” he said. “They singlehandedly invented the culture and collegiality we call the Rosenberg School of Optometry,” Buzzelli said. “The evaluation of the institution, which we underwent during the accreditation process, showed that this class of interns has done it with distinction, with diligence, with empathy and with compassion.” Kristine Benne, RSO director of student affairs who has been with the program since 2009, concurs that the inaugural class has directly contributed to its success and growth over the years. Specifically, she cited their expansion of student organizations. “When they first started the program we had two student
organizations,” explained Benne. “Today we have 17 organizations dedicated to the professional, academic and personal growth of our students. Many of these organizations and the numerous opportunities they afford our students would not be in existence without the continued efforts and leadership of our inaugural class.” When Rieger entered the program, she had no prior optometry experience but had the mindset of learning to provide the best patient care possible and not to simply pass exams. And she believes her training at UIW prepared her to deliver such superlative vision care. “I believe it is my duty to my patients for them to feel confident in my abilities and for them to know they received the best care possible,” said Rieger. “RSO gave me the opportunity to provide that level of care.” To achieve their degree, the graduates of the RSO underwent a rigorous four year curriculum earning a minimum of 206.5 credit hours. Throughout the duration of the program, they received didactic and clinical laboratory instruction with all courses integrating and emphasizing clinical applications and scenarios. In their third and fourth year rotations, they applied their training in professional settings to include the UIW Eye Institute, the San Antonio Lighthouse for the Blind and various CommuniCare health centers. The curriculum even entailed courses in practice management to emphasize the skills essential to maintaining a business or private practice. “The RSO curriculum and clinics have provided the Class of 2013 with a solid education and resource network for continued support,” stressed Rieger. continued on next page
RSO graduates of the inaugural class follow a procession on campus for the spring commencement.
UIW’s Rosenberg School of Optometry teams with NISD to provide eye examinations UIW’s Rosenberg School of Optometry (RSO) provided free eye exams to 60 preselected students from the Northside Independent School District (NISD) on April 29 at the UIW Eye Institute as part of an ongoing program to bring eye care to the underserved children of San Antonio. The patients included children between the ages of five and nine years old who failed their school vision screenings and do not have insurance or the ability to pay for comprehensive eye care. For many of the children, it was the first eye exam they had ever received. RSO optometry students, under the direction of RSO faculty, provided eye examinations with Essilor Vision Foundation providing frames and lenses. Essilor Vision Foundation is a public, non-profit foundation based in Dallas, Texas that provides screenings, eye exams and vision resources to thousands of school-age children across the United States. q
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However, Rieger and Diaz indicated that establishing the RSO was at times a trial and error process. “Our class had the opportunity to learn how to adapt to as well as solve problems and complications,” she explained. “Sometimes it’s beneficial to experience some bumps in the road so that you learn how to successfully overcome them in the future.” “Overall the best thing I can take away from my RSO education is to be adaptable to change,” added Diaz. Since the RSO is one of only 20 optometry programs on the United States mainland and one of two in Texas, the inaugural class has also made an impact on a statewide and national level. “The Class of 2013 has set a new standard for initial health care colleges which will come after them,” said Buzzelli. “Their legacy will live on as the best example of the Incarnate Word intern, setting a standard above the rest in what they do and who they are.” “Looking back to the beginning of the RSO program, it is amazing to see the growth of the school, and I am honored to know I helped make it what it is today,” Rieger shared. “As with all of my classmates, now fellow O.D.s, we showed that with hard work, dedication and setting goals, your dreams can become a reality.” q
UIW opens Bowden Eye Care and Health Center
(Pictured L-R) Dr. Adena Loston, St. Philip’s College president, and Dr. Louis Agnese, UIW president, unveil a plaque honoring Artemisia Bowden.
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Samantha Rieger (center) with fellow graduates of the RSO inaugural class Nevi Ramsey (left) and Sunaina Sakhuja (right) during spring commencement.
More than 200 guests attended the grand opening and dedication ceremony for the UIW Bowden Eye Care and Health Center located on San Antonio’s Eastside on June 5. Guest speakers included Dr. Andrew Buzzelli, dean and professor of the Rosenberg School of Optometry (RSO); Jackie Gorman, executive director of San Antonio for Growth on the Eastside (SAGE); Dr. Adena Loston, St. Philip’s College president; Ivy R. Taylor, city councilwoman, District 2; Rep. Ruth Jones McClendon, Texas State House of Representatives, District 120; and Dr. Louis Agnese, UIW president. A plaque in honor of the center’s namesake, Artemisia Bowden, was unveiled during the ceremony. Bowden was a local civic leader and pioneer for education who served as president of St. Philip’s College for 52 years. The National Council of Negro Women cited Bowden as one of the 10 most outstanding woman educators in the U.S. She died in San Antonio on August 18, 1969. The 30,000 square foot facility with 39 exam rooms, 16 of which are for children, will serve over 15,000 patients annually. The center will focus on access to eye care for vulnerable populations, particularly children, the elderly, and the uninsured. Patients will be accepted regardless of their ability to pay. Discount high quality eye wear for children and adults will be available in the center’s full service optical dispensary. The center will primarily service the needs of the 120,000 residents on the city’s Eastside. Licensed eye care doctors and interns from RSO will provide care. q
UIW Brainpower Center for Fencing and International Sports opens
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n Monday, May 13, officials from Bexar County and the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) officially opened the UIW Brainpower Center for Fencing and International Sports at a ribbon cutting celebration. Located on the campus of St. Anthony Catholic High School (SACHS), which is owned and operated by UIW, the center is the premiere fencing facility in the region. Over 150 guests attended the event which included a blessing, formal ribbon cutting, reception and a fencing demonstration performed by Courtney and Kelley Hurley, bronze team medal winners at the 2012 Summer Olympics held in London. Mark Papich, UIW athletics director; Dr. Louis Agnese, UIW president; Sr. Kathleen Coughlin, CCVI, UIW vice president of institutional advancement; Paul Elizondo, Bexar County commissioner; and Nelson Wolf, Bexar County judge, spoke at the event. Among the special guests in attendance were former fencing Olympians Velizar Iliev, Dr. Robert Beck, Dr. Risto Hurme and Leslie Bleamaster. “This facility compliments our city’s long history of training world class and Olympic athletes,” Agnese told the crowd. “It’ll provide a much needed venue not only for local fencing programs, but other sports as well. It’s also a good example of the synergy that can take place between the public and private sectors, and the high schools and university.”
Olympians Courtney and Kelley Hurley perform a fencing demonstration at the grand opening event.
(Pictured L-R) Mark Papich, UIW athletics director; Dr. Louis Agnese, UIW president; Sr. Yolanda Tarango, CCVI, congregational coordinator; Paul Elizondo, Bexar County commissioner; and Nelson Wolf, Bexar County judge; cut the ribbon to officially open the UIW Brainpower Center for Fencing and International Sports. The UIW Brainpower Center for Fencing and International Sports was made possible by a $2 million contribution from the Bexar County Venue Tax with UIW providing an additional $2 million to complete the building of the facility. “Bexar County is glad to participate in the establishment of yet one more venue for competitive sports, such as fencing, that allows our youth to hone their skills and compete on a national and international level,” Elizondo said. Uniquely, the center is an internationally constructed facility with Italian fencing reels and electronic components that work with the fencing’s scoring system and fencing strips imported from France. The 18,000 square-foot facility will serve as the home for a UIW fencing team and affiliated high schools and local club teams. The complex features eight fencing strips, practice strips, an armory, a gymnasium with basketball and volleyball capabilities, spectator and exercise areas, and an international sports area for table tennis and badminton. Most profoundly, the center allows UIW to develop an NCAA fencing program with the official shift to Division I. Further, it serves as a training facility for fencing athletes, yet is also capable of hosting regional and national competitions; provides facilities for a U.S. Fencing Association club for the community; and supports community efforts such as Dreams for Youth, which provides out-of-school youth sports programs with a special emphasis on disadvantaged youth in underserved communities. The UIW Brainpower Center for Fencing and International Sports places an important foothold in the arena of non-traditional sports in Texas and further broadens UIW’s reach globally considering the international appeal of Olympic sports. Former fencing Olympian and Chief Executive Officer at USA Pentathlon Rob Stull, who attended the fencing center’s grand opening, said he commended UIW for being an institution that is supporting sports at the international and Olympic level by establishing an impending scholarship fencing program in San Antonio. q
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feature
Samantha Magnum on her way to base camp. This is their first sight of Aconcagua, which took the party three days to see. The summit is hiding in the clouds with a view of The Polish Glacier.
Alumna aspires to climb the Seven Summits By Rudy Arispe ’97 BA
W
hen Samantha Mangum ’06 BA makes up her mind to do something, she’ll climb any mountain in the world to achieve it. And, in fact, she has. To date, Mangum, 30, has scaled three of the highest mountains across the globe as part of her grandiose mission to climb the Seven Summits after nearly losing her life. In 2002, Mangum was in a car accident near Fort Stockton, Texas. Her car, she said, rolled about 10 times across the length of three football fields. “The first time the car flipped I remember seeing the ground, 24 T H E W O R D | S U M M E R 2 0 1 3
and I don’t remember anything after that,” she recalled. “I woke up and I could hear the sound of a helicopter.” After being airlifted to an Odessa hospital, Mangum spent the next two weeks recuperating from two broken hips, a cracked skull, punctured lungs and a shattered right arm. Doctors told her she would never walk or run normally again because of the severity of the hip injuries. “The recovery process was long. I had to learn to walk again,” she said. “They told me I would have trouble walking for the rest of my life, and that after five years I would develop arthritis
y
in my hips.” But Mangum, who friends describe as having a tenacious and fierce, fighting spirit – just as she did when she competed on the UIW women’s tennis team – has proved doctors wrong. While lying in her hospital bed one day, she suddenly announced to those present that she was going to climb the Seven Summits, known as the highest mountains on the seven continents. “The nurse just rolled her eyes at me,” she said. To date, Mangum has made the physically and mentally challenging, and sometimes treacherous trek to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa in 2007, Mount Kosciuszko in Australia in 2010 and the latest, Mount Aconcagua in Argentina in January. “It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do outside of my recovery,” Mangum said. “It not only shocks your system internally, but externally as well. But it’s really rewarding.” Those glorious rewards, which offer stunning views of the world just beneath her feet, however, do not come without hours of toil and sweat in preparation for an average three-week climb. For her latest trek, for instance, Mangum focused on building her endurance by wearing a weighted vest or a back pack weighing 45 pounds, and ran up and down the Rocky Mountains near her home in Boulder, Colo. until her lungs and legs refused to cooperate. In mid-January, Mangum left the comfort of her home, as well as her husband, Robert, and dog, Simple, for her trip to Mendoza, Argentina where she met company tour guides and seven fellow climbers for their 17-day climb up and down Mount Aconcagua. Along the way, Mangum and the rest of the party endured freezing, cold temperatures, eight-foot deep snow that at times halted their progress, and extreme, high winds. “The worst part is when it’s freezing, and you have to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night,” she said. Mangum also had to constantly monitor her breathing and heart rate to avoid altitude sickness. “The higher you go in altitude your body starts to slow down,” she said. And then there was the bland tasting food that didn’t do much for her already waning appetite the higher she climbed because of the effects on her body. Meals consisted of powdered mashed potatoes with wieners and cheese, oatmeal and cereal, among others. Despite the physical hardships and harsh weather conditions, reaching the summit of any mountain is pure bliss for Mangum. “It puts my life into perspective,” she said. “I feel free like I can do anything. You can’t feel the weight of the world on your shoulders when you’re on top of it even though you’re tired and exhausted.” For Roger and Amelia Mangum, their daughter’s decision to tackle each Mangum learns how to use a llama as a mountain brings mixed pack animal on the trail at Corral Creek emotions. Llamas in Kremmling, Colo.
(Pictured L-R) Kim Jordan, a friend who accompanied Magnum; Augustine, a guide from Patagonia; and Mangum at the welcome sign of Base Camp, 14000, where they stayed to acclimate to conditions for three days. “As parents, we support her 100 percent and do whatever we can to encourage her,” Roger said. “But on the flip side, there’s that concern for her safety and well-being when she takes on an endeavor like that…I know God protects her, and we’re grateful that she comes back to us every time.” Because she has climbed thousands and thousands of feet into the clouds, it’s safe to assume Mangum is not afraid of heights. “No, not all,” she said. “I’m afraid of falling. The scariest part is when you reach the halfway point of a mountain and realize there’s no turning back unless you’re ill.” Although Mangum’s treks are part of her personal mission, they also serve to fulfill a desire to assist local charities in the towns or villages where her mountain hikes begin. While in Argentina, Mangum solicited donations via online to help support a local orphanage, Quinta Betel. Today, Mangum remains busy as a therapist at a mental health center in Boulder with a case load of 40 patients who suffer from schizophrenia and bipolar disorders. But already she’s planning her return to Mount Aconcagua on Nov. 24 because the party fell 300 vertical feet short of reaching the summit when severe weather conditions forced the climbers to turn back. Then she plans to tackle the highest peak in Europe, Mount Elbrus in Russia, in the summer of 2014. Mangum’s story of survival and determination to achieve her life goal has had a positive effect on many who know her, including close friend, Andrea Prieto ’10 MS, who made the trek to Mount Kilimanjaro with her in 2007. “The way Samantha lives her life reminds me to always make the ordinary, extraordinary,” Prieto said. “Her climbs are inspirational and have served as a platform to bring charity to communities around the world while still realizing dreams of her own. I’ll continue to support her each time she finds herself above the clouds.” Finally, one is curious to know what Mangum does as soon as she comes off a mountain. “The first thing I do is take a shower because sometimes you don’t take a shower for 17 days,” she said. “Then I have a great, big hamburger.” q For more information about Samantha Mangum’s treks and to follow her progress or donate to her charity of choice, visit www.facebook.com/SamanthaSevenSummits or www.samanthasevensummits.com T H E W O R D | S U M M E R 2 0 1 3 25
university collective
Dr. Veronica Acosta, assistant professor of biology, was awarded a grant from the Department of Defense in May to investigate the molecular aspects of wound healing. The grant is a three-year award totaling over $617,000. The title of the grant is “Wound Healing & Regeneration in the California Blackworm Lumbriculus Variegatus.” Acosta’s program aims to enhance research programs and capabilities in scientific and engineering disciplines critical to the national security functions of the Department of Defense; encourage greater participation by Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) and Minority-Serving
Institutions (MSI) in Department of Defense research and education programs and activities; increase the number of graduates, including underrepresented minorities, in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics; and encourage research and educational collaboration with other institutions of higher education. Dr. Pat LeMay Burr, professor and distinguished chair in the H-E-B School of Business, has been selected as an Apple Distinguished Educator for 2013. Each year, Apple selects 75 to 100 awardees from around the world; this is the first award to a UIW faculty member. Honored for her work in mobile learning, Burr has led mobile initiatives at UIW, first integrating the iPad into a digital media class in Summer 2010, and was instrumental
Dr. Louis J. Agnese, Jr., UIW president, was named a 2013 Legacy Leader by the San Antonio Business Journal. He is one of 10 men and women selected who have made significant contributions to local businesses and the community in the last 25 years. On May 3, Agnese was also honored by the Archdiocese of San Antonio with the Outstanding Leaders in Catholic Education award and inducted into the Catholic Schools Hall of Fame.
(Pictured L-R) Sr. Sally Mitchell, UIW Online instructor; Dr. Louis Agnese, UIW president; and Patricia Davis, superintendent, Department of Catholic Schools on May 3 at the Outstanding Leaders in Catholic Education dinner held at the Omni Hotel.
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in the formation of the iPad User’s Group on campus. Burr will join other selectees this summer in Austin for an Apple Distinguished Educator Institute, during which educators will focus on professional development, collaboration and content creation. In the coming year, she will test new Apple hardware and software, and blog about her experiences with the products in the classroom. Dr. Marshall Eidson, vice president for information resources, is one of 21 senior-level administrators in higher education nationwide selected by the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) and the American Academic Leadership Institute (AALI) to participate in a year-long Executive Leadership Academy. Individuals chosen for the program are vice presidents or cabinet officers in higher education who aspire to the presidency of an independent college or university. Eidson will participate in two seminars, ongoing webinars and a mentoring program. In addition, he will develop an experiential learning plan focused on specific areas of presidential responsibility and complete a series of readings and case studies. UIW’s Faculty Appreciation Luncheon was held in the Rosenberg Sky Room at the McCombs Center on April 4. Recipients of the 2013 Provost’s Legacy Teaching Award, included: Dr. Joleen Beltrami, instructor of mathematics;
Dr. Noah Kasraie, assistant professor of teacher education; Dr. Russell Raymond, assistant professor of biology; and Dr. Teresa TaylorPartridge, assistant professor of psychology. The Provost Legacy Teaching Award recognizes a commitment within the first five years at UIW to keeping alive the rich tradition of teaching excellence that characterizes the university. Dr. Douglas Gilmour, associate professor of philosophy, was selected as the Presidential Teaching Award recipient of 2013. Gilmour was selected from a noteworthy group of full-time faculty from every college and school. These educators were nominated in early spring by colleagues, current students and alumni. UIW and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) proudly announced that Dr. Annette Craven, professor of business administration and DBA program director, has received ACBSP’s 2013 Region 6 Teaching Excellence Award for the Southwestern Council for Business Schools and Programs. Each year, the council recognizes individuals from each of its 10 regions who exemplify teaching excellence in the classroom. Craven was honored, along with other regional recipients, at the 2013 ACBSP Annual Conference in June in Salt Lake City, Utah and received a medallion and a $100 check.
university collective Dr. Suk Bin Kong, professor of chemistry, has been working with biologically active chemicals from ginger that have been used for reducing air sickness and nausea. The effective main ingredients are alcohol derivatives such as gingerol and gingerdiol. Kong collaborated with the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) and a U.S. Air Force laboratory to co-author four papers in 2013: “Ir(I)Catalyzed Enantioselective Decarboxylative Allylic Etherification: A General Method for the Asymmetric Synthesis of Aryl Allyl Ethers,” published in “Organic Letters”; “Concise Asymmetric Synthesis of Orthogonally Protected synand anti-1,3-Aminoalcohols,” published in “Organic Letters”; “Cross-Metathesis/Iridium(I)catalyzed Allylic Etherification Strategy: (Iterative) Catalytic
As part of Earth Day events on April 22, Dr. Bonnie McCormick, professor of biology, was awarded the Bill Mulcahy Award for Ecological Stewardship at an award presentation held in front of Marian Hall. The accolade recognizes McCormick’s contributions to the preservation of the environment. The Bill Mulcahy Award for Ecological Stewardship was first awarded to its namesake in 2007 for his leadership in ecological conservation and care of the land that is home to UIW.
Asymmetric Synthesis of synand anti-1,2-Diols,” published in “Angewandte Chemie International Edition”; and “Airstable Bifunctional Allylation Reagents for the Asymmetric Synthesis of Differentiated syn- and anti-1,3-Diols,” published in “Chemistry–A European Journal.” Dr. Georgen Guerrero, assistant professor of sociology and criminal justice, has been nominated to serve on the Academy of Criminal Justice Science’s Minority Mentorship Award committee for 2013-14. Following a thorough vetting process, Dr. Sandra Fortenberry, assistant professor of optometry instruction, has been announced as a member of the board of trustees of the Texas Optometric Association. She moves forward in the great tradition of service of UIW by being in a position to affect the health care of millions of residents of Texas. Additionally, Fortenberry was named the 2013 Young Optometrist of
At the 8th Annual Blessing of the Peacemakers on Jan. 27, the Peace Center of San Antonio named Sr. Martha Ann Kirk, CCVI, UIW professor of religious studies, the San Antonio Peace Laureate for her works of compassion at home and abroad. The Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word were also included in the award for their long history of compassionate service in health care and education to the people of the U.S., Mexico, Peru and Africa. A decorative art piece carved from UIW campus oak and depicting “Compassion,” complete with twelve candles, was presented to Kirk and the Sisters as a token of gratitude.
the Year at the Texas Optometric Association’s 113th Annual Convention Awards Ceremony. Dr. Patricia Lieveld, professor of pharmacy practice, was awarded a sabbatical for the Spring 2014 semester. She is the first faculty member of the Feik School of Pharmacy (FSOP) to be awarded a sabbatical leave. Lieveld will continue her research on methods to improve access to safe water in Bukoba, Tanzania. She will return to the work she began in the remote village of Kishanje, and extend the project to other isolated villages, Kabale and Ithawa. Lieveld will conduct workshops on water, sanitation and hygiene, in addition to proper care and maintenance of rain water harvesting tanks. Along with local artist Ruth Buentello, Dr. Joey Lopez, assistant professor of communications, displayed a video projected installation at Luminaria 2013 in March.
Cynthia Richardson, senior instructor of nursing and Student Nursing Association (SNA) faculty advisor, attended the Texas Nursing Students’ Association (TNSA) State Convention in March. The UIW Student Nurses Association (SNA) won the Texas SNA Chapter of the Year and the Breakthrough to Nursing awards for the second year in a row. Mark Stringham, assistant professor of theatre arts, had a proposal accepted for the 11th International Conference on New Directions in the Humanities this June in Budapest, Hungary.
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C lass
Alumni serving their communities
Jennifer Staubach Gates ’88 BSN ran for Dallas City Council’s District 13 and was elected on May 11.
notes
Enzo Pelligrino ’02 BBA was elected to the Olmos Park City Council. Mendell Morgan, Jr. ’88 BBA won his seat on the Live Oak City Council by a vote of 53 percent.
The window of UIW’s success stories! Submissions: alumni@uiwtx.edu
Photos submitted for Class Notes may be included on the online alumni community site.
Congratulations to the following alumni who were recently elected to serve on the UIW Alumni Association Board: Crista Branch ’94 BA, Patricia Gonzales ’94 BBA, Tina Siller ’04 BS ’07 MBA, Adam Greenup ’06 BA, Daniel Martinez ’12 BA, Malik Jabeir ’13 MBA, and Vu Tran ’13 OD.
1960s Sr. Elizabeth Riebschlaeger, CCVI ’64 BA ’77 MA, , was recently recognized with the Distinguished Alumni Award from St. Michael’s Catholic School for the Diocese of Victoria.
Jennifer Staubach Gates
Sandy Wesser Chavarria ’85 BA ’92 MED, former director of the Carroll Early Childhood Education Center in the San Antonio Independent School District will direct one of the pre-school centers of Pre-K 4 SA.
ployed in corporate design at The University of Texas at Austin’s architectural engineering and design program. Currently, she is on the advisory board for The Patient Institute, and is a member of SAMGMA, ALA and Health Cell. Cohen founded the Healthcare Partnership in 2009.
1990s Timothy Lee ’90 BS business owner of Maximum Velocity Performance currently holds the record for World’s Fastest Boss Mustang. The car ran 202.7 mph at the last October Texas Mile event.
Lynette Best-Gray ’93 BA has taken a position as a marketing representative with First Call Restoration at their new office in San Antonio. Previously, she was with IESI Waste Service for 11 years and the City of Seguin for four years. She resides in La Vernia Texas with her husband Royce and 16-year old daughter KJ. Nancy Glass West ’94 MA, who wrote her first novel while earning her master’s degree in English literature from the University of the Incarnate Word, has been nominated for a Lefty Award for best humorous mystery novel for her latest book “Fit to Be Dead.”
2000s Stephen Slattery ’02 BA recently became a Cloud Specialist at Rackspace after completing Cloud savvy boot camp. Jennifer Lagundino ’02 BA graduated from Yale School of Drama with an MFA in theater management on May 20, 2013. Flor de Maria Garcia-Wukovits ’66 BA ’05 Ph.D. is now the department chair for mathematics at the University of the Incarnate Word.
1970s Debra Rose Galindo ’78 BA retired in December 2012 after 35 years of federal civil service. She also became the proud grandmother of Aubrey Rosel Moore born on March 14, 2013.
1980s Fran Cohen ’81 BA is employed at Workspace Solutions, Inc. and has worked on medical installations. She has been em28 T H E W O R D | S U M M E R 2 0 1 3
Bill Cooper ’92 BA ’09 MBA currently serves as a director at CGI, a global technology company with 71 employees. Cooper was also recently recognized in “Stonewall Living” magazine for his first country rock music single “Wrong Reputation.” Veronica Edwards ’92 MBA president and CEO of InGenesis recently had her company named one of America’s Top 10 health care organizations founded by Hispanics by HispanicBusiness.com. San Antonio-based InGenesis is the only Texas-based company on the Top 10 list. The company ranked third on the list among for-profit companies.
Congratulations to Michael Dodd ’03 BSN who recently accepted a position as administrative director of hematology, oncology, and vascular access for University Hospital.
Weddings and Engagements
Lexie P. O’Brien ’05 BAAS ’08 MBA recently graduated from Oklahoma City University School of Law. She passed the Oklahoma bar exam and will be practicing law in Oklahoma. Dr. Joan Braune ’06 BA has been hired as an assistant professor of philosophy at Mount Mary University in Milwaukee, Wis., beginning in Fall 2013 and has also been accepted to present papers at two prestigious conferences, the Apocalyptic Politics conference in Villanova University and the Loyola Critical Theory Conference in Rome. Dick McCracken ’06 L.H.D., UIW development research analyst, has published an article, “The Lilt of Irish Laughter in Texas or Irish Cleopatra: Queen of Denial,” about actress Maureen Halligan in the Palo Alto Review Summer 2012. To read the article, visit www.uiw.edu/documents/halligan.pdf Aaron Seaman ’08 BA ’13 MAA was recently selected to join the Texas Lyceum as a director of the Class of 2013. Roxanne Pena ’09 BBA ’10 MBA moved from Corpus Christi to Austin and has started a position as an accountant with the Office of the Attorney General of Texas.
2010s Marithza Calderon ’10 BS ’13 MAA accepted a position as Chief Meteorologist at Univision Channel 41 in San Antonio. Chelsea Woodard ’10 BS was recently hired as a consultant at Jacobs Engineering for Facilities Asset Management Services. Erin Nichols ’11 BA started work as a reporter for KABB Fox 29 in San Antonio.
Pamela Diaz ’11 BBA just completed a nine month fellowship with the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute and was also recently chosen as December’s “Fellow of the Month.” During her time in Washington, D.C., she served in the office of Congressional Affairs at the United States Trade Representative’s office as well as the office of Congressman Joaquin Castro. Erika Diaz BA ’12 has just completed her first year as a kindergarten teacher in Victoria Texas at Rodolfo Torres Elementary School.
Audrey Valencia ’12 Pharm.D. and Daniel Martinez were recently married in San Benito, Texas. Jeff Lehmann ’04 BBA and Jackie Clifton ’11 MAA were married on March 2, 2013 in Winchester, Texas.
Future Cardinals
Cedric Carr ’13 BBA started his master’s program and accepted a position with UPS as an inside sales representative. Lauren Shelton ’13 MAA received a promotion to Billing Department supervisor at Wheelchair Professionals, LLC and now manages a group of 10 employees.
In Memoriam Helen Bennett, former employee of IWHS and UIW Dr. Bernard J. Cooke, Religious Studies faculty Mary T. White Heffron, ’50 HE Elsa Cisneros Brown, ’55 BSN Jeanne Whelan, ’57 BA Concepcion (Connie) De Luna, ’60 IWHS ’70 BA ’75 MA Sr. Mary Rose Winkle, CCVI ’57 IWHS ’71 BA Maj. Charles J. Hart, U.S. Ret. ’73 BA Carolyn Cauley Barry, ’81 MA Jacqueline Schultz Kries, ’82 BA Sr. Geraldine Eveler, CCVI ’84 MA Catherine Ann Elizondo, ’93 BA
Myra Alvarez-Garza ’01 BA and Gerardo Garza. Jr. UIW HVAC technician celebrated their twin girls Madylyn Nova and Madison Corvette’s first birthday on January 25, 2013. Andrew Smith, IV ’11 BS and Shellie Erin Smith share the great news, Andrew “Henry” Smith, V, was born on May 7, 2013. Dad is currently a student at the University of Texas School of Dentistry.
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New programs available at UIW At a time when other universities are cutting programs and personnel, UIW is pleased to announce the addition of several new academic programs. The Rosenberg School of Optometry (RSO) is now offering a 3+4 Bachelor of Science in Vision Science/Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) program. Students can complete both a B.S. in Vision Science and a Doctor of Optometry degree over seven years instead of the traditional eight-year track. This accelerated curriculum is for the advanced undergraduate student ultimately interested in a Doctor of Optometry degree. The successful candidate will qualify to enter this program upon admission to the university with specific criteria (Phase I). The student must maintain and meet additional requirements throughout three years of undergraduate vision science coursework for acceptance into the O.D. program (Phase II). Upon acceptance into the professional program and successful completion of the first professional year, the student will be retroactively granted a B.S. in vision science degree. At the conclusion of the 4-year program, the student will be awarded a Doctor of Optometry degree. The School of Mathematics, Science, and Engineering has added a Master of Science in Applied Statistics program. This degree will provide students with a comprehensive study of the theory and applications of probability and statistics with specific emphasis in solving practical problems. Program graduates will be prepared for careers as applied statisticians in fields including medicine, biology, banking, insurance, environmental science and manufacturing. In addition, UIW’s department of mathematics has received a grant from the United States Department of Agriculture through the National Institute of Food and Agriculture to implement a statistical consulting laboratory into this program. As part of their study program, students will tutor undergraduate statistic students and work with industry clients. The Ila Faye Miller School of Nursing and Health Professions is offering a new post Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) for family nurse practitioners. The school will admit the first class of full-time graduate students in January 2014 and will take applications this summer. It will be a hybrid program combining in-class coursework, with some online courses. Nurses with a BSN are eligible to apply for this program. After completing the program, students will be eligible to take the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exam, and will be awarded the DNP. UIW’s Pastoral Institute will offer a bilingual Bachelor of Arts in Pastoral Ministry (PMIN), through a collaborative academic ar-
ALUMNI TAILGATE SCHEDULE
rangement with the Mexican American Catholic College (MACC) in San Antonio, Texas. The curriculum is based on solid Catholic biblical and theological foundations with pastoral application to concrete situations in ministry. Students will receive multidisciplinary knowledge in the liberal arts and Catholic culture. It will offer a solid foundation in biblical and theological studies in preparation for ministry and ensure language proficiency for ministry in a bilingual (English and Spanish) pastoral setting, and for English-language graduate studies. It will equip students with the leadership skills and intercultural competencies needed for effective pastoral ministry in today’s multicultural dioceses, parishes and institutions; and offer an optional concentration in philosophy which fulfills requirements of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) for seminarians at the college and pre-theology levels. Students complete the standard required core curriculum courses at UIW’s main campus. Most of the courses in the major are offered at MACC and are taught primarily by MACC faculty members who have been appointed as UIW part-time faculty. Students are subject to all UIW’s normal admissions standards. UIW’s campus in Mexico City, Centro Universitario Incarnate Word (CIW), has recently signed an alliance with Mexico’s Westbridge University, to offer programs in gastronomy and 3-D animation. The Bachelor of Gastronomy program is designed for students to acquire the theory and practice needed to dominate food preparation from simple to sophisticated recipes from around the world, based on hygiene, quality, service and security fundamentals. The students will develop knowledge about the management of food and beverage related businesses so they may work in their own business or as chefs in specialized kitchens. The students will earn a Mexican degree. The bachelor’s degree in 3-D Animation will offer two different concentrations. The first is 3-D animation specialized for visual effects. The students will acquire the theory and practice needed to design and create all aspects related to animation and visual effects, dominating 10 software programs used in film, TV, advertising and animation studios. The students will earn a Mexican degree. The second concentration is a dual Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation and Game Design (ANGD) between UIW and CIW that begins this fall. For information, contact the UIW Admissions office at (210) 8296005.
Homecoming Save the Date!
Join the UIW Alumni Association for tailgating before the Fall football games! Check the Cardinal’s Nest for updates soon at www.uiwalumni.org
Homecoming week is Oct. 23-Oct. 27
Saturday, Sept. 7 UIW vs. Texas College Saturday, Sept. 14 UIW vs. Langston Saturday, Sept. 28 UIW vs. Eastern New Mexico Saturday, Oct. 26 UIW vs. Houston Baptist (Homecoming) Saturday, Nov. 9 UIW vs. Abilene Christian Saturday, Nov. 16 UIW vs. Angelo State University
As always, we have events for everyone, including: Alumni Dinner mixers Wine and Cheese with Dr. Agnese Tailgate before the Homecoming game Lion & Rose Double Decker Bus experience Homecoming Memorial Mass Trunk or Treat
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Save the date for Homecoming and plan to join us!
Meet the Board
In this issue, meet Board of Trustees member Doyle N. Beneby
When Doyle N. Beneby joined the UIW Board of Trustees in 2011, it was a natural fit. The 25-year veteran of the energy industry is himself a product of a Catholic education. “Having benefited from the educational and social experience of attending a Catholic high school, it felt natural to become involved in a Catholic institution of higher learning,” said Beneby. Of course, it didn’t hurt that Dr. Louis Agnese, UIW president, encouraged him to join at a breakfast where Agnese welcomed him to San Antonio not long after his arrival. “Dr. Agnese is a persuasive and dynamic individual, and frankly quite difficult to say no to,” said Beneby. “Additionally, I have a passion for contributing to education and UIW is an up and coming institution that I was delighted to be a part of.” Since 2010, Beneby has served as president and chief executive officer of CPS Energy, the largest municipal electric and gas utility in the nation. He has led the transition to a lower carbon intense generation fleet, utilizing clean coal, natural gas and nuclear energy combined with targeted renewables such as wind and solar energy. Through the multiple partnerships he has brokered with clean technology companies, thousands of jobs have been added to the Greater San Antonio area, increasing research and development and enhancing educational investments. “I’m very pleased that CPS Energy was able to
secure $100,000 earlier this year from our New Energy Economy partners that will go to scholarships for the students of the UIW School of Mathematics, Science and Engineering. We hope to employ some of these UIW engineers one day,” said Beneby. As a successful leader, Beneby recognizes the importance of the UIW Board in the growth of the university. “One of the primary roles of the Board is to give advice and counsel to the president and university leadership. Additionally, the other principle role of the Board is ambassadorship and promotion of the university,” said Beneby. Beneby describes the changes he has witnessed during his tenure on the UIW Board simply: “Growth. Growth. Growth. Diversity. Diversity. Diversity. UIW is increasingly becoming bigger, better and more accessible to students around the globe.” Beneby holds a bachelor’s degree from Montana Technical College and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Miami. In 2003, he completed the Advanced Management Program at Exelon Training Center. He also completed the Advanced Executive Leadership Program at Exelon Academy/Northwestern University in 2008. He serves on numerous boards for corporate and industry organizations. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and San Antonio Medical Foundation.
Moment for Reflection By Sr. Kathleen Coughlin, CCVI I recently had the privilege of making a pilgrimage to Lyon, France, the origins of our Congregation, the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word. Our travels took us to the site of the original monastery where our Sisters received their preparation prior to their departure for Galveston and San Antonio, Texas, in 1866 and 1869. These women responded to the call of Bishop Claude Marie Dubuis, “Our Lord Jesus Christ, suffering in the persons of a multitude of sick and infirm of every kind, seeks relief at your hands.” As we traveled the country, we reflected on our beginnings, and walking in Madeleine and Pierre’s footsteps was a deeply moving and transformative experience. Their decision to leave their homeland and come to the U.S. at the end of the Civil War was courageous and remarkable. We also visited Bishop Dubuis’ home, the village of Coutouvre, and the parish church where he is interred. For 140 years, the Sisters have continued to live the mission of the founders, touching lives through healthcare, social justice, pastoral care and education in the U.S., Mexico, Peru and Zambia, responding generously to the needs of God’s people. Today, in partnership with our co-ministers, we continue to respond to the original call. At UIW, we are part of the wonderful heritage and tradition of educating young men and women to “become concerned and enlightened citizens” throughout our city, state, country and the global village. Imagine the lives that have been touched through the years, and the gift that has been given to us to make a difference, as we journey together making tangible the love of God. It is doubtful that our founders could have foreseen the inheritance/patrimony we have today. This is a time to give thanks to the first three Sisters and Bishop Dubuis, who were poured out “as libation” in their service of others. We live in challenging times. Our hardships today are not, in most cases, the material ones they suffered, but rather the stress and demands of daily living. Yet, we are faithful and continue “the first three Sisters’ spirit of Christian service” as we incarnate the Word in today’s world. This incarnation asks us to be in solidarity with all who suffer and are in pain. We give thanks for “all that has been, and for all that will be” as we trust God’s promise of fidelity and all that holds for us in the future.
A stained glass tribute to Bishop Claude Marie Dubuis in the parish church in the village of Coutouvre, France.
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The Word Online www.uiw.edu/thewordonline
View online videos and photos of Tech Fair 2013 Sponsored by UIW’s Instructional Technology department, Tech Fair 2013 hosted approximately 500 attendees and included representation from 16 vendors, 14 UIW programs and departments, and three employers in the Employer Showcase. The employers spoke with students about technology jobs and qualifications. Various faculty members gave presentations showcasing apps and technologies that have enhanced their teaching. The fair also included student project presentations and vendor presentations. View online videos of Tech Fair 2013 presentations at the Interactive Corner and App Table as well as links to photos on Facebook and Twitter by visiting sites.uiw.edu/techfair/ Get involved
Want to be more involved with university programs and events? Visit www.uiwalumni.org and click the “Get Involved” tab. Just login and fill out the form to show interest in UIW programs or even suggest a program.
Find fellow alumni
Log on to www.uiwalumni.org. Under the “Networking”tab, click “Alumni Search” to enter criteria to search for former UIW classmates. You can search by first, middle or last name and class year. 32 T H E W O R D | S U M M E R 2 0 1 3
Access bonus photos at The Word Online Web extras are easy to access. Just visit www.uiw.edu/ thewordonline. A password is not needed. Click the stories that interest you to view bonus photos of the stories in this issue not included in the printed edition.
See UIW’s new You Will Know ad campaign online Visit UIW’s public relations webpage at www.uiw.edu/pr/ and click “Current Campaign Ads” to view our new television and print advertisements produced in partnership with Bromley and Cevallos Brothers Productions.
Visit RSO’s blog page, The Cardinal’s Eye UIW’s Rosenberg School of Optometry (RSO) has a blog page, The Cardinal’s Eye. Read about what’s going on with RSO from an inside perspective by visiting sites.uiw.edu/optometryblog/
Health Services E-Magazine View UIW’s Health Services E-Magazine, “Student Health 101,” online at readsh101.com/uiwtx.html. The magazine covers topics dealing with wellness issues that impact student success and retention rates.
Lifelong friendship impacts future generations M
ary Helen “Pinkie” Devine Pinner, ’46 BA, developed many lifelong friendships during her years at UIW. Sr. Mary Helene Probst, CCVI, was among those very special friendships. Probst was director of speech and dramatics from 1940 to 1955, and was one of Pinner’s favorite professors. Years later Pinner and her husband, Bill, established The Sister Mary Helene Probst Scholarship in Speech/Theatre Arts to honor Probst. They received two things from making this gift to UIW – 1) the joy this scholarship brought to Probst; and 2) the ability to make a positive impact on the life of a student. Their scholarship supports students like Evan Michael Smith. Smith is the 2013 recipient of the Probst Scholarship. He is a theatre arts major with a minor in business management, and plans to graduate in December 2013. In his freshman year, Smith auditioned and was chosen to play the male lead in UIW’s theatrical production “Play” by Samuel Beckett. But as Smith will tell you, acting is only one part of the theatre arts program at UIW. Students learn diverse skills necessary to put on an entire production such as carpentry and welding to build a set, lighting, costuming, and staging. Though theatrical productions require much preparation, Smith has maintained a high GPA and earned two scholarships in addition to the Probst Scholarship – the UIW Theatre Arts Scholarship and the Dean’s Academic Scholarship. Smith credits his quality educational experience to his professors who really work to get to know the students, support them in their craft and want to see them succeed. Students receive exposure to professional actors, stage and lighting designers and are connected to UIW theatre arts alumni all over the country.
Smith participated in a 10-day summer British theatre study abroad course that included five days in London, two days in Stratford and three days in Paris. Students visited museums and attended theatrical productions. What impressed Smith most was being able to see multiple productions while there, and go on a backstage tour; it showed him once again why he is so passionate about theatre. After graduation, Smith’s goal is to work in stage management or as a stage technician in a regional theater. Smith is an example of the tremendous impact alumni and friends can make on students’ education by establishing a scholarship at UIW. Scholarships may be established with an outright gift or through a bequest or other planned gift. For more information, contact Alex Castañeda, director of major gifts and planned giving, at (210)829-6071 or macasta1@uiwtx.edu.
Above: Sr. Mary Helene Probst, CCVI Left: UIW student and Probst Scholarship recipient Evan Smith
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University of the Incarnate Word 4301 Broadway San Antonio, Texas 78209
Golzar Hosseini Junior Major: Biology
“Thanks to scholarships and the generosity of other donors I was able to attend UIW. My parents know that UIW offers a great education; the scholarships I receive help them worry less about money for college and allow me to attend the school I want.”
Thank you for investing in our future! Brenda Miranda
Junior Major: Vision Science with a Minor in Accounting
“Receiving scholarships from UIW has helped me focus on my studies and given me and my family peace of mind about affording college. These scholarships have helped me reach my goals and have inspired me to one day donate money and create a foundation to help other students in economic need to fulfill their dreams.”
Juan Marin
Junior Major: Computer Graphic Design and Fine Arts “Scholarships have been a big part of my educational success. It is because of these funds and sponsor support of events like Swing-In, that we as students are blessed with opportunities to continue towards our degrees.”
Vivian Partida Senior Major: Nutrition/ Dietetics
“I was able to qualify for scholarships to fund my schooling that would allow me to continue my educational journey. When it comes to education, every penny counts. I am very grateful to all those who make a gift to UIW.”