Vol 111 Issue No. 01 - 09/22/2022

UVALDE

Victim of Uvalde tragedy remembered in new series of murals

ANGIE DURRANT CONTRIBUTING WRITER

On May 24, 2022, parents in the small Texas town of Uvalde sent their elementary school students to school like any normal day, but what they were not expecting was for tragedy to strike. At around 11:30 a.m. that day, an 18-year-old man changed the lives of an entire city, and in turn, affected the entire nation. The shooting at Robb Elementary School is one of the deadliest mass shootings in American history and in modern time, with 21 innocent souls being taken from the world too soo.

After the tragedy that struck the nation on that day, the city in mourning desired to do something to remember everyone who was lost on that horrific day. A professor at the local community college in Uvalde, Abel Ortiz, produced the idea of having a walking tour of murals to remember all the victims involved in the shooting. That idea is exactly what was brought to life. Twenty-

Robb Elementary who was full of life and knew exactly what she wanted to do in life. Her mom, Kimberly Rubio,

says that her daughter wanted to follow in her footsteps and attend St. Mary’s University when she was older. She wanted to major in math, which was a subject her mom would never understand. But nonetheless, she fully supported Lexi in her desires. Eventually, down that path, she wanted to study law just like her mom. Lexi also enjoyed playing both basketball and softball with the hope of getting a softball scholarship when the time came. She was a shy person but was still incredibly competitive.

Lexi’s mural is located near the Courthouse in downtown Uvalde. At first, it was at a different location in town, but after some convincing, Mrs. Rubio got a different building to allow the artwork to be tattooed on. Her mural now sits on a beautiful twostory building that is not only in a central part of the town but is in a place incredibly special to Mrs. Rubio. The painting of her daughter overlooks the very parking lot in which Mrs. Rubio parks her vehicle to go to work every single day. On days when she goes to work, she is now greeted by her daughter’s smile, which she says was “such a contagious smile,” that spread joy to everyone she encountered.

Lexi Rubio. Lexi was a 10-year-old student at

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the little things that Lexi enjoyed the most like sunfowers, sofball, basketball and a Libra sign because “she was a very proud Libra,” Mrs. Rubio said. Tey insisted that there be fve butterfies on the mural, representing the number of siblings she lef behind. It was both an emotional and exciting experience for everyone because

they got to honor Lexi in a way that highlighted her personality and life. Te whole family sat some nights and watched as the artists worked together to create a wonderful piece of art to honor their daughter and sister.

Te artists that created the mural, Ruben Esquivel and Carmen Rangel, wanted to create something that gave the family “a place for healing and refection. A place for

laughs and some tears,” said Esquivel in an Instagram post about Lexi’s mural. With all the tragedy surrounding this horrible situation in Uvalde, these murals bring a happier light to the town. As the nation moves forward in the fght to end school shootings Mrs. Rubio says, “[We need to] learn from Uvalde, [have] better-trained police and remind people to use [their] voice [and] vote.”

Students notice delayed responses from campus facilities

ASHTON JEFFERS NEWS EDITOR

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Whether going to and from class or coming to fnd a study space, students utilize some aspects of the St. Mary’s campus facilities. Facility Services is able to keep these spaces clean and functioning properly, ready for students and staf to use during their busy day. One priority is convenience, which can be great for those who bring refllable bottles or use the vending machines if they happened to forget something when heading to class. Facility Services are also important to the health of the campus, ensuring nothing harmful afects those on campus. Another essential part of that is being able to use bathrooms and water fountains in classrooms and other study spaces, meeting the needs of students, faculty and staf

Since coming back to campus for the fall, some students at St. Mary’s have taken up more sustainable alternatives to using water, especially to fght of the Texas summer

heat. However, students have noticed a greater struggle to fnd water fountains on campus whose flters have been changed on-time. Te water reflling stations around campus can be found in various spaces on campus. Tese include student residence halls, the Blume Library, administration buildings, as well as classrooms. All of which create the opportunity to refll water bottles efciently, while being available for students and faculty around campus as they go about their day.

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While this can be seen as a way students can save money and time, some returning students have noticed the flters for the reflling stations have not been changed since the Spring semester of this year. “ Te water issues do make living harder for students, especially those who live in the dorms and use showers and water to brush their teeth,” said Megan Insall, sophomore criminology major and resident of Treadaway Hall. Insall reported that they had noticed the water from the tap in their dorm had a slight color to it. “Just imagining how we have particles in the water that can easily make any of us sick without knowing the cause, which can be prevented by making sure the water is clean,” she added.

It also brings into question how these issues of water will be dealt with. Students can use the vending machines around campus or other dining options that students and staf use throughout the day- such as the Diamondback Café or Chick-Fil-A. One way that students can fnd afordable options for clean water is through the spaces in the Commons, which has a Starbucks that ofers free water

to students who might have forgotten to bring water to class or to study rooms. Not all is lost for those who use the water bottle-flling stations which are displaying red lights. According to Elkay’s website, the red lights on the bottle flling stations are meant to indicate that the flters preventing contaminants, like lead, from getting into the water. Te red light indicates the bottle flling stations are being used ofen, which can lead to more sediments being stored. Students and staf alike could beneft from having more communication from facilities by learning how these flling stations operate and perhaps, more communication from students when red lights are noticed.

Having inexpensive, convenient and sustainable options on campus is something that St. Mary’s is working towards. Tese options are valued by students, especially in the residence halls and classrooms, where the campus collective is taking necessary steps toward environmental and economic consciousness. However, the issues of water on campus still continue to fuctuate. It is important to keep in mind that Facilityrelated work orders do take time to address and fx, which may at times rely on student action. For those who experience issues with water in residence halls, students are encouraged to submit maintenance work order requests directly using the form on Gateway. If the problem persists, residents should contact their Resident Assistants to follow up on the issue. Tough the process does take some time, students can be assured that there are methods in place to solve these concerns, despite current delays.

One of the many water bottle-flling stations on campus. | Photo by Giovanna Lucio

FROM “INSPIRED BY”

Westside Cofee shop, Barrio Barista, re-opens since undergoing renovations

Spanish double major, recalls her frst time at Barrio Barista saying, “It felt very

Nestled into the businesses that occupy the busy street of Culebra Road lies a small west side gem called Barrio Barista. Less than fve minutes away from the St. Mary’s campus, this café provides students, as well as other community members, a relaxing and laid back atmosphere. People can also grab food and cofee, catch up with friends or even ft in a bit of studying at this fne location. Barrio Barista’s tenthousand Instagram followers along with being featured in multiple San Antonio publications, speak to the business’ popularity and reputation. Te charming café was established in 2014 and has gained the admiration of San Antonians through its delicious menu options and friendly staf. Following a recent closure for renovations, Barrio Barista is back open for business and ready to serve the west side community.

Te café’s owner, Gilbert De Hoyos, remarked that his passion to serve others acted as a driving force in establishing Barrio Barista. Tis passion is evident through the friendly and welcoming environment that his café ofers to all of its guests. Upon entering, visitors are met with a familiar and homey atmosphere. St. Mary’s student, Mariana Mata, junior international and global studies and

welcoming as soon as you enter.” Friends chat with one another over great food while others sip cofee, typing away on open laptops. Artwork hangs on the walls of the warmly-lit space while light music plays in the background. Booths, tables and couches along with outdoor seating provide guests with many options for their experience. “It’s a safe place for people to come and enjoy themselves with friends and family, and it ofers students in the area a place to hang out,” said St. Mary’s senior environmental science student and Barrio Barista patron, Norma Murillo. De Hoyos remarked that he enjoys seeing

people come together over a cup of cofee and it is clear that this is taking place at Barrio Barista.

De Hoyos’ business puts a west side twist on a traditional café and this theme presents itself through their menu items. Breakfast, lunch and of course, cofee are served. Some of their most popular drinks include the horchata latte and the Mexican mocha. Another extremely popular option is the Westside special. Tis lunch item is comprised of a barbacoa grilled cheese sandwich served with avocado and a side of tomato basil soup. “I saw the sandwiches on Instagram and thought they looked really good and I wanted to try them,” said Murillo. Te homemade food paired with cofee and the cozy atmosphere make Barrio Barista a great space for community members and students alike.

Having owned the building since 1965, De Hoyos admitted that many things had “worn down over time,” and he felt that renovations were necessary. Closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic limited Barrio Barista to curbside and online orders afer being forced to shut down their dining room. Tis provided him with the perfect opportunity to renovate the building’s interior. De Hoyos commented that “Everything remained the same, we just strengthened everything that was here.” Mata added, “Now as COVID restrictions

have gone down and the business opened up again the atmosphere is coming back.” She is referring to students hanging out with friends at the cofee shop.

Following the recent re-opening of Barrio Barista, De Hoyos hopes to reestablish the café’s relationship with St. Mary’s University. “Afer 8 years, St. Mary’s is supporting us more and more,” said De Hoyos. He hopes to foster an even stronger relationship saying, “I think it’s there, it’s just a matter of exposing it more.”

“Students should defnitely try it,” says Murillo. De Hoyos even ofers a student discount, solidifying the value he places on the relationship between Barrio Barista and St. Mary’s. He hopes that students will utilize his café as a means to “network and share with others,” in a relaxed atmosphere with great food.

Biden puts forward a plan to issue university students options for loan-relief

ASHTON JEFFERS NEWS EDITOR

On August 24, 2022, the Biden Administration announced a student-loan forgiveness plan to address the present concern college students face with being able to aford higher education. Troughout the pandemic, payment for student loans have been temporarily suspended, which started on March 13, 2020, and has been extended until December 31, 2022. For borrowers, this plan of studentloan cancellation could have Pell Grant recipients receive up to $20,000 in debt cancellation and up to $10,000 for nonPell Grant recipients.

Tose who are eligible for the cancellations are those with an income of less than $125,000, and those in the top 5% will not receive any of these benefts. Tere is also a potential revised loan repayment program based on income that would allow students to pay back their monthly loans based on their income and family size.

Te plan is to make the student loan programs more manageable for current

and future students by reducing the monthly payments on loans. Te plan also helps to fx the system of Public Service Loan Forgiveness by introducing rules and adding additional changes that allow students who have worked in nonprofts or institutions at the federal, state or local levels, the appropriate relief for student loans.

Te intentions of this plan address how most borrowers come from lower or middle-class families, are Pell-Grant recipients, advance racial equity and how borrowers range in age. Still, the word is just beginning to reach students, current and former.

“I hadn’t even heard of that,” said St. Mary’s alumni, Victoria Sanchez, who holds a Bachelor of Arts and got the opportunity to apply for loan forgiveness. “I think it’s a step in the right direction. Tere’s a lot more that can and should be done, especially considering the current economic trends the nation is seeing.”

While many students could beneft from this, reactions come as both eager, but also skeptical, especially about who has

the authority to ensure debt cancellation. Opponents of debt cancellation argue that this plan is unfair to those who have paid of their student loans in the past and that it does not appropriately solve how college can be aforded in the future. Some groups are arguing for more relief.

Skeptics will likely challenge the president’s authority to cancel student loans in the courts, but the Department of Education states that the Secretary of Education, Miguel A. Cardona, is one to give the say-so on debt cancellation. Tose worried about receiving relief may see their loans canceled before an ofcial decision leaves the court.

Another challenge to debt relief could come in the form of state taxes. While relief is said to not be subject to federal income tax, some states consider debt cancellation as income tax at the state level. According to NPR, states such as North Carolina, California, Indiana, Mississippi, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Arkansas have stated that they have policies that could consider relief taxable income or ensure that it will be

taxed. Some chose to not follow Congress’s decision of not taxing relief, and others have policies regarding this that haven’t been

updated to follow federal policy. Depending on the state income tax rate, borrowers could estimate paying four-to-fve percent of the $10,000 or $20,000 back to the state.

Tose interested in seeing if they qualify for debt forgiveness, an application will be available through the U.S. Department of Education in early October. To be notifed, subscribe for updates via email at: ed.gov/ subscriptions. Relief is said to come four to six weeks afer the application is submission, and the recommendation is to apply before Nov. 15, when repayment will continue. Te Department of Education will still accept applications sent afer December 31, 2022.

De Hoyos (third from left) stands with Barrio Barista employees. | Photo by Kaitlyn Valderas

Sign letting customers know that they have arrived. | Photo by Camila Justus

Graphic by Camila Justus

Student loan debt can grow steadily over time. | Photo by Monstera

Student Registration $10

Get in motion, Rattlers! Come together during the annual StMU 5K for the Neighborhood to run or walk on our beautiful campus. Celebrate after the race with food, live music, fun and fellowship!

Registration includes a race day T-shirt, gold and blue shoelaces, commemorative sticker, race bib and finisher certificate.

Proceeds from the 5K go toward the partnership between St. Mary’s University and our neighbor, Holy Rosary Catholic Church.

Students 9/11 remembrance demonstrates generational divide on campus

AARON COURTS OPINION EDITOR ESTEBAN SERRANO COPY EDITOR

Earlier this month, a day that seemed like any other, came and went, but it wasn’t a day like any other. Did our university do enough to honor the memory of that day? Some students believe it did not.

21 years ago, the nation was shaken by the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. Te moment is seared in the minds of anyone old enough to remember. Tey can tell you their exact location, whom they were talking to and what they were doing. Tose not old enough to remember the day or its events, learned about that day through many

other sources, including the stories passed down to them, terrible images, archived news coverage or amateur video captured while it happened. So, how do members of Generation Z, whose knowledge of the events aren’t seared but rather sowed, contemplate the attack?

Guadalupe Flores Saldana is a freshman education major. She was not alive on Sept. 11, but does recall learning about it in the frst grade. She explains, “I was taught it was a day of great loss and to always remember those who we lost as well as always letting our loved ones know that we love them.”

Taking that into account, she continues, “I think that it should defnitely be taught because we do not want to repeat history

but some scenes should not be shown to younger kids…” Saldana expressed concerns that Generation Z has become desensitized to the occasion because of the age gruesome images and audio recordings were introduced to them. Saldana explained, “It is difcult to see and understand as kids…” She admits that as her peers got older, she witnessed them ignoring the remembrance presentations, many times.

Another account on the subject comes from Luke Moody, junior international business major, and U.S. Army Veteran. Moody was in the ffh grade and does recall the day. He remembered one of the coaches interrupting math class and whispering something to the teacher. Moody says, his teacher turned on the TV, and “… Everyone watched [in silence] immediately following the second plane hitting the tower.”

Moody says that there was no doubt in his mind, or the others, that something was terribly wrong. “I remember having the Commandant of our JROTC program telling us that day… America’s response would be ‘judged on a global scale,’ and would symbolically be our ‘day of reckoning.’” Moody continued, “It wasn’t until several days later that… I began to realize the true scope of what had happened.”

He went on to say, “I think it’s important to remember the memory of the ones we lost, but at the same time, [consider] the goal and objective of the terrorists that day. I don’t think we should dwell on it in a negative light.” He continued by saying, “We can’t allow a tragedy on that scale to ‘terrorize’ us emotionally and be a point of sorrow because that gives power and

accomplishes the mission of the individuals who committed the atrocious acts that day.”

Te two were asked what, if anything, would they like to see the St. Mary’s Community do regarding the remembrance of Sept. 11. Saldana says, “I would like St. Mary’s to hold safe spaces for anyone afected directly or indirectly by this because some people my age lost family members and they have had to hear about it once a year, every year which can be difcult [to] acknowledge... but maybe not with the scenes of [that] day.”

Moody would like to see St. Mary’s University take Patriot’s Day remembrance a step further. “I perhaps would like to see a mass or service ofered the day or day aferward... I think also having some sort of nod or acknowledgment to those who served [as] either military, police or frst responders.”

Both accounts are striking and represent diferent ways the 9/11 attacks have impacted people today. Individuals who were alive and remember the events of that day, and those who learned about the tragedy from family, friends and educators.

Although Sept. 11 is not the date that will live on in infamy, it is a date that should remain present in our conscious minds through remembrance. Whether you think of the date as the federal holiday simply called Patriot’s Day, or as many who were alive will always remember it, 9/11, it is a date that changed the world, and America, forever. It is a day that St. Mary’s should prioritize in the years to come, and one we should never forget.

Students weigh in on comedian censorship and calls for their cancellation

AARON COURTS OPINION EDITOR ESTEBAN SERRANO COPY EDITOR

Chances are you have a favorite comedian, if not, maybe an actor who writes a lot of laughable material for the sole purpose of entertaining an audience. Ofentimes, people turn to comedic movies, TV shows and certainly stand-up routines to escape a tough time in their life. Tere is little doubt that comedy has anchored its place in the entertainment industry, and for many, evolved into a culturally grounded experience and a way to oppose common stereotypes.

For example, comedians such as George Lopez or Gabriel “Flufy” Iglesias point out some Hispanic stereotypes in their routine, flling rooms with laughter every time. George Lopez is famous for his Jack in the Box joke where he emphasizes that customers in the drive-through line may have a hard time understanding the employee because of a strong Mexican accent he or she has. In some circles, however, this exact same joke is considered ofensive. Many Hispanics attend his shows, but it’s possible that some people who ft within that stereotype might not fnd it funny at all. Jokes have always pushed the envelope and cracked jokes at others’ expense. However, there is an undeniable trend where comedians are being attacked, or canceled for the things they say.

A recent controversial event that took place on an international stage was at the Oscars. Comedian Chris Rock made a joke about Jada Pinkett-Smith, which some say

went too far. Although Rock has stated that the joke was more about a movie than Pinkett-Smith, the afermath of the joke was a violent one. Footage shows Will Smith laughing at the joke until he looks at his wife, and realizes that she felt insulted, so proceeded to walk onto the stage and physically assault Rock with an open-handed slap across the face. Ten he shouted at Rock, “Keep my wife’s name out of your f-----mouth,” shocking everyone in attendance.

Te incident was shocking and confusing to many in the audience, and around the world. In a similar incident weeks later, comedian Dave Chappelle was performing in Los Angeles at a comedy festival when an audience member attacked him. Heckling isn’t new, or even that surprising. However, the level of intensity and immediate demand for cancellation, seems to be the go-to criticism of late, and leaves many fans of comedy bewildered. Do comedians have an obligation to change their act because of a joke going too far? If comedy is helpful to some, then what makes a particular response to a joke more important than someone else’s response? More to the point, where is the line between censuring a comedian and censoring a comedian for their act?

Professor George Kendall, St. Mary’s Drama Department Chair and English Literature and Language Instructor said, “Laughter is a great healing and coping mechanism. Multiple medical studies have shown that smiling and laughing have positive health benefts, both psychological and physically.” Collectively, he believes that the word ‘together’ plays a lot in that process, adding, “groups that laugh together and at

themselves build tighter unity within their group.” He does believe, however, that there are topics that a comedian should avoid.

When asked to elaborate, Kendall said, “Almost everything is a fair topic of humor and comedy. Tere are a few areas, such as the holocaust, that should never be addressed comically. One must know the audience, as certain content that is acceptable to some groups is ofensive to others.”

However, Professor Kendall explains that comedians are not necessarily confned to hard lines. He references something that his favorite comedic writer once said in an interview, “According to Mel Brooks, comedy needs to shower people with truth and grit which means sometimes stepping outside of the lines.

Great comedy will approach the line, hover on the line, cross the line, then step back. Comedy needs to walk this thin line between civility and impropriety to be efective.” Students like senior electrical engineering major, Shea Spellman,

couldn’t agree more in terms of where the line is drawn. “I believe that there is nothing of-limits to comedy. Comedy is a tool that shines a healthy light on many topics that are considered of-limits, from race to politics. Once you start censoring comedians on one topic, then nothing is okay for them to make jokes about. With that being said, there are ways comedians say things that are not okay, but that should be the issue, not the topic.”

He believes in the cathartic nature of comedy and recognizes personal ts. Spellman said, “It lightens the mood… [and] fnd that if I’m in a good mood, my whole body feels better and it’s scientifcally proven that dopamine serves several purposes that help the body heal.”

Te consensus on campus seems to suggest that when it comes to the use of comedy, pretty much anything goes Like professor Kendall explained, with few exceptions, a comedian may help identify the boundary of what is acceptable by fnding the a line, crossing over it and then quickly stepping back.

Film photograph of the World Trade Center’s Twin Towers in New York City. | Photo by Malcolm Hill

VICTORIA OLGUIN MANAGING EDITOR

Over the course of many years, the perception of tattoos has changed drastically. Now, more than ever, it seems that tattoos are common among many in the workplace and greater community. Tough tattoos have become more of a modern trend now, the usage of tattoos has occurred centuries before, dating back to 3370 B. C. From tattooed mummies found in Ancient Egypt, and Native tribes using tattoos as tribal symbols, the usage of tattoos has varied over the years.

At the beginning of the 20th century, tattoos specifcally became common with sailors. A horrifc practice of tattoos, however, was used to brand slaves and criminals. Tis played a big role in shaping the negative connotation that persisted with tattoos for years to come. Despite this negative connotation, many people today have used tattoos as a way to tell their story in a meaningful way, helping to reshape the view of tattoos in society.

“I have a tattoo of an egg surrounded by the words ‘A little broken but still good.’ For me, this tattoo is [a] constant reminder that no matter what happens to me, I will still be worth something; it’s almost paying an homage of sorts to my struggles with mental health that I’m grateful for being able to get through,” said Catherine Garcia, sophomore forensic science-criminology major.

Tattoos have been a way for many to showcase their journeys, allowing people to share their stories through art. For others,

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tattoos have added to a person’s story, almost like an accessory.

Isabella Mulwani, senior accounting major said, “Some people might think it’s silly but I view my tattoos as a permanent accessory and a sort of signature to who I am. I have 6 tattoos, 5 of which are visible, and they all represent either diferent people or periods of my life.”

“I love being young and I genuinely look forward to looking back on my 20’s when I’m older. I want to have crazy stories to tell my kids, stories full of mistakes and successes; and I think my tattoos are a physical representation of this stage in my life and I love that,” Mulwani continued.

While tattoos can be used to express oneself, others have used the art as a tribute to loved ones or other important moments in life. “I decided to get some tattoos because they had signifcant meaning to me. I have a couple dedicated to my dogs and a matching tattoo with my mom!” Bailey Cabrera, junior fnance and risk management major stated. From pets to

family members, the possibilities of tattoos serving as a tribute vary indeed.

“It’s a great conversation starter. Whether it’s by someone who has never gotten a tattoo or people who have multiple. I’ve found that it allows you to get a little snapshot of someone’s life, and typically the majority of the people who comment on my tattoo are pretty cool so that of course helps,” Garcia added.

Despite the meaning behind tattoos, some fear that they could interfere with their chances of success within the work environment.

Cabrera shares how tattoos in the work environment have changed for them. “Being a business student, it is commonly understood that they are not to be shown of or seen. Tough, society is progressing and allowing workers to have visible tattoos! As a society, it is way more common to see people with tattoos, back in

the day it was defnitely taboo,” Cabrera said.

With the negative connotation slowly disappearing, people have already been experiencing the growing acceptance of tattoos in the workplace.

“I have had three internships, all in very corporate and professional settings, and no one seemed to care. In fact, a lot of my supervisors either also had tattoos or would compliment me on them and ask about their signifcance. I think that the corporate world is changing, and employers are realizing that this generation is more than willing to work a 9 to 5, but not at the expense of individuality,” Mulwani said.

Of course, a tattoo does require some thought, as the decision is a permanent one. Some students have shared some advice regarding getting a tattoo.

“I do advise people to give their tattoos thought and consideration, especially with bigger pieces or tattoos that are more visible. However, I really like the recent trend in patchwork tattoos because it allows people to have more of a variety of tattoos. Having a combination of carefully and well-done tattoos along with a few random impulsive ones is really fun,” Mulwani added.

Increasing popularity of tattoos fosters concern and excitement about ink ArtworkbyCamilaJustus

In the past, society has seemingly associated negative connotations with tattoos and those who have them. Tat perception has slowly changed, and people recognize today, more so than ever, tattoos are an expressive decision, carry meaning and signifcance and are not, necessarily, a refection of unprofessionalism in the person who chose to get inked, and display a part of their character on their sleeve.

Students balance the scales between a career and family

AMELY LOGAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Te 21st century has provided us with a shif in worldly views; primarily how the term nuclear family and the perfectionist idea behind it is both observed and valued.

According to an article by Act for Libraries, there have been signifcant shifs in all aspects of the nuclear family since the 1960s, including defnitions and roles of men, women and children, and how they are carried out.

Although, historically, men have been burdened by the pressures to be a provider, it is seen that now, women are expected to work and contribute to family fnances.

Additionally, with the introduction of the LGBTQ movement, we have seen an understandable increase and normalization of same-sex parent households. However, the pressures of being a good parent continue to be present and are ofen in confict with professional goals and the maternal responsibilities to care for a child.

Tis unique challenge is compounded by maternity leave policies in the United States.

According to a 2022 World Population Review article, which provides data on maternity leave by country, the U.S. follows a minimum of 12 weeks, which is unpaid for the mother to care for the child. For comparison, Bulgaria’s minimum maternity leave is 58 weeks.

Te time that a child spends with its mother following birth has an impact on the child’s development, which drives the one question as to why there is such a disparity between our nation and others.

Although there is no specifc maternity leave policy, St. Mary’s uses what is known as the Family Medical Leave Act, more commonly known as FMLA. Tis act provides those with various medical circumstances, including pregnancy and postpartum care, the option of requesting 12 weeks of leave from their employer. At St. Mary’s, that period is considered a paid leave of absence. In addition to FMLA’s authorized leave of absence, university employees are eligible to apply for shortterm disability. Tis process does require a specifc application and approval, but can be a period of up to six months.

St. Mary’s University faculty member Betsy Smith, Associate Professor of Political Science, Chair of the Political Science Department and Associate Dean for Student Matters of the College of the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, stated that “St. Mary’s is quite generous,” but when considering the signifcance of that time for a mother and child, she continued, “It’s just not good enough.”

As a mother and woman in a professional feld, she expounded on the challenge of fnding a balance between family life and work, stating that although sacrifces do have to be made, she says in her case, “It is easier to deal with the tradeofs because I love my job.”

Her sentiment is a great example of a shif in the family dynamic during the 21st century. Both women, and men, recognize the importance of a stable and happy homel ife, while acknowledging sacrifces within a household that are ofen required to achieve

professional goals. However, one of those sacrifces should not have to be reducing the invaluable time proceeding the birth of a child, because of a looming return to work.

Professor Smith added, “A daycare on campus for children of faculty and staf would be monumental.” Childcare in the workplace is a beneft that would reduce the burden on families and remove the difcult decision that so many parents face- just 12 weeks afer childbirth; leave their baby and return to work or fall behind their peers in the workplace.

Te known struggles of balancing a career and family may cause many students to prioritize a professional career over a family. “I am not totally sure that I want a family. Having kids and starting a family is a lot of work and as of right now my priority is my career. A career in the medical feld takes a lot of time to establish, and the thought of starting a family in the middle of that is too much.” said freshman biochemistry major, Briana Saenz.

Trough the conduct of several interviews, which included with a mixture of male and female students, there seemed to be a tendency to focus on a career over family, at least for now. A normalization of same-sex couples, an increase in dualincome families and more women choosing careers over the traditional roles in a household have advanced a shif in family dynamics, and eroded the ideas associated with a nuclear family. Te stay-at-home mothers and breadwinner fathers are inching closer toward interchangeability and things of the past.

How did @stmucampuscats get started?

All cat names were decided by students through The Rattler Instagram. @stmurattlernews

They saw how much people loved the cats, and thought the school might benefit from an Instagram page.

When did this account start?

The cat page was made March 16, 2021.

How many pictures are submitted daily?

Around 2-3 pictures every day, there are about 40 cat pictures sitting in drafts.

Favorite campus cat?

The brown cat with a mustache.

Name: Skunk

Where to find him: The PodMajor: Biology

Name: GingeWhere to find him: AlkekMajor: Political Science

PhotobyAnissaVargas

Name: Donut Major:Wheretofindhim:Treadaway

Name: Calcentines (Socks)

Where to find him: AlkekMajor: History

Name: Cow Major:Wheretofindhim:UC

Layout and Design Editor: Kasha Casiano

PhotobyDemiBestor

Photo by Laura Poole

Artistas Tejanos honran a victima de Uvalde con gran mural pintado a mano

ANGIE DURRANT/ LOGAN AMELY

El 24 de Mayo del 2022, padres de familia en el pequeño pueblo de Uvalde, Texas mandaron a sus niños de primaria a la escuela como cualquier otro día, sin esperar la tragedia que iba a suceder. Alrededor de las 11:30 a.m. de ese día, un hombre de 18 años, cambió las vidas del pueblo entero, y

por lo tanto, de la nación. El tiroteo en Robb Elementary School es uno de los tiroteos más mortales de la historia estadounidense y de los tiempos modernos, con 21 almas inocentes arrebatadas del mundo mucho antes de su tiempo.

Después de la tragedia que afectó a la nación ese día, la ciudad en duelo deseó hacer algo para recordar a todas las vidas perdidas en ese día horrible. El profesor del colegio comunitario de Uvalde, Abel Ortiz, dio la idea de realizar un recorrido a pie por murales recordando a todas las víctimas del tiroteo. Esa idea es exactamente lo que cobró vida a 21 murales bordeando la ciudad de Uvalde para recordar a los perdidos, mostrándolos como sus familiares y amigos los conocían. Entre estos murales está uno de una niña llamada Lexi Rubio.

Lexi era una estudiante de 10 años en Robb Elementary que estaba llena de vida y sabía exactamente lo que quería hacer con su vida. Su madre, Kimberly Rubio, dice que su hija quería seguir sus pasos y asistir a la St. Mary’s University cuando era mayor. Ella quería estudiar Matemáticas, que era un tema que su mamá nunca entendía. Sin embargo, ella apoyó plenamente a Lexi en sus sueños.

Al pasar del tiempo, ella quería estudiar Derecho como su mamá. Lexi también disfrutaba jugar básquetbol y softbol, con esperanzas de ganarse una beca

en softball cuando llegara el momento. Aunque ella era una persona tímida, era extremadamente competitiva.

El mural de Lexi se encuentra cerca del tribunal en el centro de Uvalde. Al principio, estaba en una ubicación diferente en la ciudad, pero después de un poco de convencimiento, la señora Rubio consiguió un edificio diferente para permitir que las obras de arte sean tatuadas. Su mural ahora está en un hermoso edificio de dos pisos que no sólo está en una parte central de la ciudad, sino que está en un lugar increíblemente especial para la Sra. Rubio.

La pintura de su hija pasa por alto del mismo estacionamiento en el que la señora Rubio estaciona su vehículo para ir a trabajar todos los días. En los días en que va a trabajar, ahora es recibida por la sonrisa de su hija, que según ella era “una sonrisa tan contagiosa,” que difundía alegría al que conviviera con ella.

Toda la familia Rubio estuvieron increíblemente involucrados en el proceso de creación de la obra de arte. Todas las imágenes presentadas fueron inspiradas por las pequeñas cosas que Lexi disfrutaba más como girasoles, softbol, básquetbol y un signo de Libra porque, “Ella era una Libra muy orgullosa,” dijo la Sra. Rubio insistieron en que había cinco mariposas en el mural, representando el número de hermanos que dejó. Fue una experiencia emocional para

todos porque lograron honrar a Lexi de una manera que resaltó su personalidad y vida. Toda la familia se sentaba algunas noches, viendo como los artistas trabajaban para crear una maravillosa obra de arte en honor a su hija o hermana.

Los artistas que crearon el mural, Rubén Esquivel y Carmen Rangel, querían crear algo que diera a la familia “un lugar para la sanación y reflexión. Un lugar para risas y algunas lágrimas.” dijo Esquivel en un post de Instagram sobre el mural de Lexi.

Con toda la tragedia que rodea esta horrible situación en Uvalde, estos murales traen una luz de felicidad a la ciudad. Esto tambien se hace para mejorar el mundo en

“un lugar para la sanación y reflexión. Un lugar para risas y algunas lágrimas.”

Ruben Esquivel artista de mural

donde se vive y ayudar a la comunidad a sanar. A medida que la nación avanza en la lucha para poner fin a los tiroteos escolares y a otro tipo de violencia dentro de la sociedad, la Sra. Rubio dice: “[Necesitamos] aprender de Uvalde,” tener “una policía mejor capacitada,” y recordar a la gente que “use su voz para votar.”

Reapertura de Barrio Barista ante las renovaciones causadas por la pandemia

KAITLYN VALDERAS/ BIANCA RAMOS

Acurrucada entre los negocios que llenan la ocupada calle de Culebra, se encuentra una pequeña joya en lado oeste llamada Barrio Barista. A menos de cinco minutos del campus de St. Mary´s, este café brinda estudiantes, además de otros miembros de la comunidad, un ambiente relajante y tranquilo. La gente puede conseguir comida y café, ponerse al día con amigos e incluso estudiar en este fino lugar.

Los diez mil seguidores en Instagram de Barrio Barista, además de su apariencia en varias publicaciones en San Antonio, hablan bien de la popularidad y reputación del negocio. Este encantador café fue establecido en el 2014 y ha ganado la admiración de la gente de San Antonio por sus deliciosas opciones de menú y su amigable personal. Después de un reciente cierre por renovaciones, Barrio Barista está de regreso y listo para seguir sirviendo a

la comunidad del lado oeste. El dueño del café, Gilbert De Hoyos, remarcó que su pasión para servir a los demás actuó como una fuerza impulsora para establecer Barrio Barista. Esta pasión es evidente a través de su amigable y acogedor ambiente que su café ofrece a todos sus huéspedes. Al entrar, los visitantes se encuentran con un ambiente familiar y hogareño.

Estudiante de St. Mary´s, Mariana Mata, una junior con una licenciatura doble en estudios internacionales y globales y Español, recuerda su primera vez en Barrio Barista comentando, se sintió muy acogedor en cuanto entré. Amigos platican entre sí mientras comen y beben café y otros escriben en sus laptops. Obras de arte cuelgan en las paredes del espacio mientras música suena ligeramente en el fondo. Cabinas, mesas y sillones, junto con los asientos al aire libre, brindan varias opciones de experiencia a los huéspedes. Es un lugar seguro para que la gente venga aqui a disfrutar con sus amigos y familia, y les ofrece a los estudiantes un área para pasar un buen rato, dijo Norma Murillo, una estudiante de último año de Ciencias del gran Medio Ambiente y cliente de Barrio Barista. De Hoyos remarcó que disfruta ver cómo la gente se une con una taza de café y es claro

que esto ocurre en Barrio Barista.

El negocio que es De Hoyos le pone un toque al lado oeste al café tradicional y este tema se presenta a través de sus opciones de menú. El desayuno, lonche, y claramente, café son servidos. Unas de sus bebidas más populares incluyen el late de horchata y el moca mexicano. Otra opción extremadamente popular es el especial Westside. Este está compuesto de un sándwich de barbacoa con queso a la parrilla servido con aguacate, acompañado con sopa de tomate y albahaca. Vi los sándwiches en Instagram y pensé que se veían muy ricos y quise probarlos, dijo Murillo. La comida casera acompañada del café y el ambiente cálido, hacen que el Barrio Barista sea un gran espacio para miembros de la comunidad y estudiantes por igual.

Habiendo sido el dueño del edificio desde 1965, De Hoyos admitió que muchas cosas se habían desgastado con el tiempo y sintió que las renovaciones eran necesarias. Los cierres debidos a la pandemia de COVID-19 limitaron Barrio Barista a pedidos en la calle y en línea, ya que fueron forzados a cerrar su comedor.

Esto le otorgó la oportunidad perfecta para renovar el interior del edificio. De Hoyos comentó que todo permaneció igual, nada más enforzamos todo lo que ya

estaba ahí. Mata añadió, ahora que las restricciones de COVID han sido relajadas y el negocio volvió a abrir, el ambiente está regresando. Se refiere a que los estudiantes están volviendo a pasar el tiempo con sus amigos en el café.

Siguiendo la reciente reapertura de Barrio Barista, De Hoyos espera restablecer la relación del café con la universidad St. Mary´s. Después de ocho años, St. Mary´s nos apoya más y más, dijo De Hoyos. Él espera fomentar una relación aún más fuerte diciendo, Creo que está ahí, nada más es cuestión de exponerlo más.

Los estudiantes definitivamente tienen que intentarlo, dijo Murillo. De Hoyos incluso ofrece un descuento estudiantil, solidificando el valor que pone en la relación entre Barrio Barista y St. Mary´s. El espera que los estudiantes utilicen su café como manera de conectarse y compartir con otros en un ambiente tranquilo con grandiosa comida. Asi poder crear un sentido de comunidad para los demas.

Rotulo hecho para informar a clientes que han llegado a su destino final. | Foto por Camila Justus

La familia Rubio parada ante el mural de Lexi. | Foto por Pete Luna

De Hoyos (segundo de derecha) posa con empleados para toma de foto. | Foto por Katlyn Valderas

Estudiantes internacionales comparten acerca de su primer año universitario

MARÍA JOSÉ VALIENTE / GIOVANNA LUCO

Cada año, St. Mary’s University da la bienvenida a estudiantes de todo el mundo. Todos los estudiantes tienen una experiencia universitaria diferente, y para los internacionales, la experiencia está estructurada por mucho más. Esto es debido a que no solo se están adaptando a una nueva escuela, sino también a un nuevo país. Los estudiantes internacionales juegan un rol muy importante en la comunidad de Rattler, ayudando a que esta sea muy diversa y, por lo tanto, es importante que sus historias sean compartidas.

Es importante mencionar que septiembre es el mes de la Herencia Hispana, un mes importante para muchos estudiantes hispano, por lo cual es esencial que se

celebre y reconozca todas las culturas aquí en la Universidad. Para el mes de la Herencia Hispana, The Rattler quiere destacar a unos cuantos estudiantes internacionales y sus experiencias en St. Mary’s.

Rodrigo Garland, un estudiante de primer año de Administración de Empresas proveniente de Perú, expresa que sus primeras semanas en St. Mary’s han sido “Muy bien, he hecho muchos amigos y ya siento que soy parte de la comunidad de Rattler.” Cuando se le preguntó cómo se enteró de la universidad y por qué eligió aplicar, declaró que “Mi escuela en Perú también era una escuela marianista.” Esto refleja como para muchos internacionales la religión les ha abierto puertas, especialmente la católica marianista, en el área educativa.

El estudiante de el primer año de Administración de Empresas Víctor Yacaman, viene de Honduras. Él tomó la decisión de aplicar porque se sintió “atraído por el programa de negocios que se ofrece aquí,” y quería “contribuir a la comunidad de Rattler y poder participar en las actividades que se ofrecen.” Sus primeras semanas “han sido geniales. Siento que estoy aprendiendo mucho.”

Una cosa que todos los estudiantes internacionales pueden experimentar es

el choque cultural. Muchos han expresado como esto les ha afectado al inicio de sus vidas universitarias. Entre estos estudiantes se encuentra Kevin Artola, un estudiante de primer año de ingeniería informática de Nicaragua. El afirma que los tamaños de servicios ya sea como en la comida en Estados Unidos son extremos, lo que se consideraría un mediano aquí sería un grande en Nicaragua. “No me sorprendería si vuelvo con un par de libras más,” añade Kevin. Él escuchó sobre St. Mary’s porque su hermano y su hermana son alumnos. Expresa que “estar aquí ha sido agradable, ha conocido a mucha gente y he hecho muchos amigos que espero que duren toda la vida y he estado mucho más relajado de lo que pensé que lo hubiera hecho.”

Finalmente, tabien para Diego Figueroa, estudiante de primer año de Gestión de Ingeniería de Perú, estar aquí ha sido una “linda experiencia, he hecho muchos amigos y he participado en muchas actividades. Disfruto del ambiente que me rodea.” Diego se enteró de la universidad desde su escuela secundaria porque tienen un acuerdo con St. Mary’s y ofrecen un programa de becas.

St. Mary’s University ofrece muchos recursos y oportunidades para estudiantes internacionales y su presencia en campus

hace que nuestra comunidad sea tan especial con las muchas culturas y antecedentes diferentes. Debido a esto, muchos estudiantes internacionales están emocionados por vivir el mes de herencia hispana por primera vez lejos de sus hogares, aquí en los Estados Unidos.

Sus emociones nacen debido al hecho de que la vida en los Estados Unidos es sumamente diferente a sus vidas en sus países natales. Ellos tambien explican como esto los ayuda a crecer como personas y aprender de diferentes culturas. Los estudiantes comparten cómo están listos para aprender sobre nuevas culturas, ideas y además, tradiciones. Aunque es muy difícil vivir lejos de sus familias y sus seres queridos, los internacionales expresan cómo ellos trabajarán duro y a la misma vez, aprovecharán esta oportunidad educativa y de vida ofrecida por la Universidad. Finalmente, ellos describen cómo el mes de la cultura hispana es una oportunidad perfecta para practicar la transmisión de la identidad latina. Esto los ayuda a sentirse como en casa, y gracias a esto, ellos sienten gratitud y mucho orgullo por ser hispano.

Estudiantes y sus diferentes opiniones acerca del mes de la Herencia Hispana

MARÍA JOSÉ VALIENTE/ EDITORA DE ESPAÑOL

“La cultura es la suma de todas las formas de arte, de amor y de pensamiento, que, en el curso de siglos, han permitido al hombre ser menos esclavizado,” -André Malraux. Como mencionó hace muchos años el escritor Francés Malraux, la cultura es una de las formas de expresión más importantes para la sociedad. Esta nos ayuda a transmitir nuestros distintos pensamientos, sentimientos y tradiciones, para así preservarlas y poder difundirlas a las nuevas generaciones.

Para la sociedad hispana, estos hechos son muy importantes, ya que la cultura y las distintas tradiciones son la cúspide de la vida. Debido a esto existe el mes de la Herencia Hispana. Esta celebración tiene como meta reconocer la diversidad, las contribuciones, culturas y acontecimientos históricos de la comunidad latina, y a la misma vez, se celebra con mucha alegría la cultura.

Todo empezó en 1968 cuando se creó la Semana de Herencia Hispana. Después

de muchos años, durante 1988, se decidió cambiar la semana a un mes entero. Como se había mencionado anteriormente, todo empezó siendo una semana de herencia. El presidente Lyndon Johnson decidió firmar la ley de la semana de herencia en 1968. Pero en 1988, el presidente Ronald Reagan cambia la semana a un mes entero.

Esta celebración es enorme, ya que no solo se celebra en Estados Unidos. Muchos otros países como Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras, México, Chile, Puerto Rico, Perú, entre otros, lo celebran. Cada país tiene distintas formas de celebrarlo, a través de festivales, carnavales, espectáculos de arte, conferencias, la gastronomía, conciertos, fiestas y muchas otras actividades.

El mes de festividades empieza el 15 de septiembre. Este es un día sumamente especial para los países latinos ya que es el aniversario de su independencia. Algunos países tienen su día de independencia durante el 16 o el 18, pero es el 15 de septiembre cuando empieza la celebración de la herencia.

Debido a esto, se entrevistó a distintos estudiantes alrededor del campus, acerca de sus opiniones, ideas y diferentes tradiciones del mes de La Herencia Hispana. Entre todo estos estudiantes se encuentra Justine Jade, estudiante de tercer año en criminología nacida en México.

Jade cuenta como el Mes Hispano es algo que ella mantiene muy cerca de su corazón porque “siendo mexicana de sangre, el Mes Hispano es una festividad la cual toda mi familia ha celebrado durante muchos años. Siento que es algo hermoso, ya que nos reunimos todos y compartimos sobre nuestra cultura. Ya sea a través de la gastronomía,

cada miembro de mi familia lleva un plato típico mexicano cocinado por ellos mismos. Todos juntos participamos en juegos y a la misma vez escuchamos música mexicana tradicional. También nos regalamos pequeños obsequios, para así recordar el día tan especial. Todo esto lo hacemos durante el día de independencia mexicano, siendo el 16 de septiembre.”

Otra estudiante llamada Isabella Castro de Honduras, quien está en su tercer año en Administración de Empresas, describe cómo es para ella el mes de la Herencia Hispana. “La verdad mi perspectiva en la ‘celebración’ es un poco conflictiva. Ya que me gusta mucho la idea de celebrar a líderes y figuras importantes hispanas,pero también siento que no debería de ser un mes dedicado a eso, debería de ser algo constante donde la gente por su cuenta descubre esas figuras, o encuentran sus intereses en ellas. La verdad tengo que ver más a fondo cómo se creó y por qué, y de esa manera crear mejores conclusiones.”

Además, se entrevistó a Diego Iglesias de El Salvador, estudiante de tercer año en Administración de Empresas. Iglesias comparte como “En El Salvador, la cultura hispana se celebra todos los días y esto es distinto para cada familia. Los salvadoreños estamos muy orgullosos de nuestra identidad y lo demostramos de distintas maneras,ay sea a través de nuestros festivales, carnavales, en los cuales se escucha música típica.”

Iglesias añade como “también cada semana es costumbre comer aunque sea una merienda típica, ya sea tamales, pupusas, atol de elote, entre otros. No solo esto, sino que en los colegios nos inculcan sobre nuestro país, a través de eventos culturales como bailes típicos, la orquesta salvadoreña o viajes a sitios culturales. En lo personal, el 15 de septiembre, nuestro día de la independencia, es una fecha muy importante para mi familia, y lo celebramos con ganas. Es hasta cuando vine a los Estados Unidos cuando me di cuenta de que hay un mes dedicado a la cultura hispana. Esto me encanta, ya que asi me siento mas

conectado a todas mis raices, pero a la misma vez siento que es importante celebrar nuestra cultura cada día.”

El Mes de la Herencia Hispana es un mes muy importante para todos los latinos, ya

“El15 de septiembre, nuestro día de la independencia es una fecha muy importante para mi familia, y lo celebramos con ga nas. Es hasta cuando vine a los Estados Unidos cuando me di cuenta que hay un mes para la cultura hispana. Esto me gusta, pero a la misma vez siento que es importante celebrar nuestra cultura cada día.”

Diego Iglesias tercer año administracion de empresas

que este mes sirve para conmemorar todas las tradiciones, los ideales y las culturas hispanas. A la misma vez, se conmemora todas las luchas, batallas e individuos que marcaron a los latinos a través de la historia. Con mucho orgullo, todos los hispanos se reúnen para mostrar respeto a la cultura, a través de la gastronomía, carnavales, festivales, rituales, canciones y obras literarias.

Es evidente que muchos sienten que no solo se le debería dedicar un mes a la celebración de la cultura hispana, ya que esto debería ser algo que se practica día a día. Unidos es cuando los latinos son más fuertes. Ya que esto es el grano de la vida hspana. Aquí en la St. Mary’s University, los estudiantes expresaron cómo ellos están emocionados por vivir el mes hispano junto a la universidad, y así mostrarles respeto y orgullo a sus identidades latinas. Esto demuestra como la cultura latina es muy fuerte ya que se celebra con mucho amor.

Graphic by Camila Justus

Graphic by Camila Justus

San Antonio’s Ripley’s closing to make way for Alamo Visitor Center

SOPHIA KUSSEL ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR

Ripley’s Believe It or Not on Alamo Plaza, right across from the Alamo, has closed its doors to the public, this time for good on Sept. 5, and is to be officially vacated on Oct. 31. Tomb Rider 3D: Adventure Ride and Arcade, the Guinness World Records Museum and Ripley’s Haunted Adventure agreed to terminate their leases in the Woolworth and Palace Buildings. Coming as a shock to many San Antonio locals, the familiar site has been opened since 2002, exactly two decades, and has established itself as a popular tourist attraction. So, why is it being closed?

Seemingly, the closure of Ripley’s is a major component of the “Alamo Plan,” which seeks to restore historic sites, such as the Woolworth and Crockett buildings. This includes closing streets to vehicular traffic, increasing public transportation and constructing a new exhibit hall. The Alamo Plan has started since May of last year, kicking off construction and road closures commuters are still dealing with to this day.

Ripley’s is set to be replaced with the Alamo Museum and Visitors Center, projected to be open in 2029. There is little doubt that San Antonio is rapidly changing, from expanding its public bus system, to the Alamo Plaza makeover. These changes have brought up the longstanding debate over the use of the Woolworth and Palace buildings.

When told about the Ripley’s closure, Freshman Communications Major, Sydney Tobias, had this to say: “I think that’s kind of crazy in a way. I remember going to the Ripley’s Museum when I was younger with my parents and my friends, and it was a great time so it will be [strange] to have some historical thing there instead.”

So, what excatly is the historical significance of the buildings? Aside from its proximity to the Alamo, the Woolworth building was a lunch counter and was the first site in the South to be peacefully integrated during the 1960s-making it a significant civil rights landmark and a symbol of racial desegregation in the U.S. The site’s tremendous historical significance is the main

reason for the repurposing of the building. The state will provide $50M for the redevelopment, but this leaves some people uneasy. “I think San Antonio really needs to get its priorities straight…there’s a lot of things going on and so many issues around town already.”, said Tobias. Ripley’s is placed in a historic site, in historic architecture. Yet, the city is determined to restore the Woolworth and Palace buildings to their former historical glory. However, the nostalgia of Ripley’s is a reminder that the attraction is a poignant memory for much of the community, making the Ripley’s goodbye a difficult one. That being said, Ripley’s is not leaving San Antonio altogether. In a statement issued to Texas Public Radio, Phillips Entertainment, which is the operator of the location, leaves us with an assurance that there will still be plenty of tourist locations to visit, saying, “We are pleased that we have been able to reach a mutual agreement with the General Land Office regarding the future of some of our Alamo Plaza businesses. However, Phillips Entertainment,

Inc. will continue in business all across San Antonio. We still operate two Extreme Escape locations, the Buckhorn Saloon & Museum, The Texas Ranger Museum and The Amazing Mirror Maze. In addition, we are opening a brand new Texas/ San Antonio themed retail business within the next week called Viva SA.TX! located at 123 Alamo Plaza, across from the Rivercenter Mall,” the statement read. Although Ripley’s is closed to the public, anyone is still welcome to visit the site for outdoor viewing before it officially becomes vacated in October. The building is located on 307 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205.

Freaking out the neighborhood: the 1970’s Family Values in Horror Media

SOPHIA KUSSEL ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR

As kids, many were afraid of the supernatural. Monsters lurking at every turn- under the bed, in the closet and in the television, waiting patiently to drag one down into a pit of unspeakable fetid horrors. But in the ‘70s, movie directors knew what was up. It’s not the boogieman you should fear, but your family. That’s right, Freddy Kruger is nothing more than a hapless criminal next to beloved Mee-Maw and Pee-Pee.

The 70’s was a time of rapid social change. The continued push towards women’s liberation, gay rights, racial equality and the shifting of family

dynamics was more than enough for most authors and movie directors to wet themselves. Women started to leave the territory of the domestic housewife in droves. With the increasing economic independence of women, the nation’s divorce rate also increased in turn. As a result, husbands were being left behind, either working in conjunction or even more salaciously, staying home and raising children.

Paul Tremblay, author of “Head Full of Ghosts” and “The Pallbearers Club,” gave his perspective, “Change takes so many of us out of our comfort zone because then we really don’t know what will happen next. Change is constant, and a truth of existence. There’s no going back, even if we could,” states Tremblay.

It’s little wonder that the storytellers of the time picked up on the swelling anxieties over the social changes that had already been seeping into the millions of middleclass American homes since the revelation of the ‘60s. Gone were the days of zombies and campy

monsters lurking on the grounds of decadent gothic mansions or castles. The ‘60’s lacked a true identity in the horror sphere, while the ‘70’s on the other hand completely redefined it.

Horror history buff and author (His next book is “HOW TO SELL A HAUNTED HOUSE” and it’s out on January 17, 2023), Grady Hendrix, states, “Horror didn’t exist as a genre in the ‘60s. Before “ROSEMARY’S BABY” came out in 1967, horror was marketed as “suspense” or “thriller” fiction… The first wave of books were, predictably, knock-offs of “ROSEMARY’S BABY,” “THE EXORCIST,” and “THE OTHER” but pretty soon, horror novels were dealing with more personal fears.”

By the time the ‘70s rolled in, writers and filmmakers realized that nothing is scarier than a divorce (in this economy?) The public was thrilled.

The fear of family members is heavily present within the horror genre. It’s evident in some of the most iconic horror media, such as “The Brood,” “The Shining,” “The Exorcist,” and of course, “The Texas

Chainsaw Massacre,” that these horror families all strayed from the status quo with their troubled kids who act like they’re possessed and cannibalistic tendencies. ‘70s horror readily acknowledged the ubiquitous experience of familial relations. Families are fraught with personal stories of heartbreak, troubled childhoods and hierarchy— these stories are what truly haunt people. To put it simply, a horror story is at its scariest when one can relate to the actual story, and it’s the reason the genre seems to continuously reflect the societal fears of the time. As Paul Tremblay put it in the interview, “Being a child and being part of some kind of family is a near universal experience. Those interfamilial relationships can be fraught and are often subjected to outside social and political forces.

If there is anything society can agree on, it’s that change is hard. When change occurs in the family, it can feel catastrophic. Change is the inciting action in life and in storytelling, so why not embrace that thrill?

San Antonio’s Ripley’s. I Photo By Camila Justus

Graphic by Sophia Kussel

Local author, V. Castro, talks about Latin representation in Horror Media

ASHTON JEFFERS NEWS EDITOR

As the fall season approaches and decorations of skeletons and ghouls begin to pop up on people’s porches and lawns, many look to horror novels and stories to prep themselves for getting into the spirit of Halloween. Telling ghost stories is a tradition as old as time, a thought shared by author, V. Castro.

V. Castro is a Mexican-American horror fiction writer, born and raised in San Antonio. Growing up, she was fascinated by Mexican folklore and Texan urban legends shared within her family. She noted that growing up in the 1980s had allowed her to watch many of the classic horror films of the decade that ultimately captivated her. Still, Castro said that there was always something missing in these stories and films that she loved. “I wanted more Latinas front and center because we’re very rarely ever the leads and, so this was my opportunity to make a Latina lead,

to say what it’s like to be a woman of color. What are our mental health challenges? We do bleed red, and we do deserve to be in the spotlight and to have our stories told.”

On Oct. 25, Castro’s newest novel, “Aliens: Vasquez,” releases, with her being the first Latina to write for the “Aliens” franchise. The book centers on character, Private Vasquez, diving into her backstory from a MexicanAmerican perspective. Castro views this as an opportunity to proudly show her roots by bringing a Latinx story in sci-fi front and center. Castro shared how important Vasquez is to her: “I come from a military family. My dad was in the army, my uncles are in the military. I’ve got lots of military in my family… So it was really cool to also give a nod to that.”

Castro has released five other books: “Mestiza Blood,” “Goddess of Filth,” “Queen of the Cicadas,” “Latinx Screams,” and “Hairspray and Switchblades.” During the pandemic, it had been difficult for authors to

hold public events to promote the release of their novels, especially for those just getting their foot in the door. Castro said that social media and online platforms like Amazon Reviews have helped immensely with ensuring her stories are shared and become points of conversation.

“I greatly appreciate anyone who gets on and talks about my books…and I really have a lot of gratitude for all the reviewers who are on there,” Castro states. “Every bit helps because publishing is a tough business,”

While talking with Castro, she mentioned that during this time, she is finally able to attend in-person events such as book signings and conventions. During the pandemic, most connections she made were online, which led her to interact with readers and authors on a global scale. Her work has been all electronic. She also plans to become more involved in the writing community in the U.K., where she moved to after living in San Antonio. She comes back to the U.S.

and San Antonio as often as she can, recently returning to her hometown for book signings at Barnes & Noble.

When giving advice to future authors, Castro said, “It’s okay to take up space. It’s okay to be loud. It’s okay to follow your dreams. If someone says no, do it anyway. How you react to the world is much more important… you are a story. You are the future… if you have a fire, you have a passion, you have a dream, you go after it, period-and especially you know for women of color. It is harder, but you know what, our day is coming. We are valid, you are valid, your story is valid, and there needs to be more representation so don’t give up. You got this.”

If interested in picking up any of the novels listed, they can be purchased at any bookstore. To hear more about “Aliens: Vasquez” and a novel releasing in April 2023, “The Haunting of Alejandra,” you can follow V. Castro on Twitter. and Instagram (@vlatinalondon).

Graphic by Sophia Kussel Graphic by Sophia Kussel

SOPHIA KUSSEL ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR

Music and the smell of delicious food will be filling the air this Saturday. Diez y Seis Mariachi Festival is making its way to the Historic La Villita. The festival provides the opportunity for middle and high school students from the San Antonio region to showcase their talents through traditional performances that include Ballet Folkloric dancers and student Mariachi performances.

The Mariachi Festival is an event part of the larger Fiestas Patrias taking place, which lasts from Sept 15 to Oct 15. The purpose of the festival is to honor Hispanic Heritage Month and commemorate Diez y Seis de Septiembre. As the story goes, on September 16, 1810, a Catholic priest by the name of Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, let out a cry as he kicked off the fight for Mexico’s independence. That day in history is now known as Mexico’s Independence Day. So, where does Mariachi fit into the celebration of Hispanic heritage?

Dating back to 18th century

Mexico, Mariachi is a genre of music that includes influences from Polka, waltzes of the time, as well as a traditional folk music called son, defined by its featured string instruments. Mariachi music is known for its distinctive, boisterous sound that one can always dance to. Mariachi bands are notable for their iconic Charro outfits-- an ensemble of tight and decorative pants, matching decorated jackets and a large silk tie called a moño. Mariachi has long been considered the music of celebration, played at weddings, quinceañeras and many religious celebrations, so it is only fitting that Mariachi is also used to celebrate Hispanic heritage this month.

The Mariachi Festival itself has been hosted by the Diez y Seis Commission for nearly 20 years, further establishing the cultural importance of Mariachi within the city. The festival is also being closely managed by The League of United Latin American Citizens Council #4947 (LULAC), which works in collaboration with the Commission. The school uses funds raised by the

performances to invest back into their students and their continuing musical education, a charitable pursuit. The festival is most certainly a group effort with multiple organizations participating, showcasing how the San Antonio community has banded together in an impassioned effort to bring the sound of Mariachi for all to enjoy and appreciate. When asked about the importance of collaborative effort when it comes to organizing the festival, Jeanette Flores, Texas State LULAC Deputy Director for the Youth, was happy to answer, “It takes a village to make it happen, and with the expertise of the Deiz y Seis Commissioners and leadership, dedication, and continual support from The Mexican Consulate in San Antonio.”

The festival shines a spotlight on Mariachi being taught within the classroom. Mariachi music has been a prominent fixture within San Antonio’s public schools for nearly four decades, making waves within the city since the 1970s, with Mariachi being the city’s largest program in the San Antonio Independent

School District. During the Diez y Seis Mariachi Festival, these talented students can demonstrate all of their hard work and training as Mariachi, and have their art appreciated by the entire community.

Some may wonder why there is such a push to get students involved with the vibrant musical style. Jeanette Flores offers a poignant explanation, “I believe that there is so much we have not shared with the younger generation, and we must introduce them to our heritage with support, and appreciate the students for their accomplishments and encourage higher education.” Mariachi is seen as a cultural representative of Hispanic identity. Allowing students an opportunity to experience Mariachi exposes them to a significant piece of Latino heritage— one that runs deep within the heart of San Antonio.

The Diez y Seis Mariachi Festival takes place Sept. 24 at 12:00 p.m.- 9:00 p.m. Admission is free to all, with food and arts and craft booths available for patrons to explore. The event will be located at the Arneson River Theatre within the Historic La Villita.

Rattler Athletic teams gear up for winning efforts all around

DIDIER CADENA SPORTS EDITOR

As the 2022 fall semester rolls on, the first month of Rattler Athletics has started with strong performances all around from the various Rattler teams. This fall half of sports looks to be a very exciting one, where there might be chances of late tournament runs for the various teams.

In one of the best starts since the 1998 season, the women’s soccer team is striving with the longest winning streak to start off the year, breaking the previous record from 2001. They won their first six games of the season in impressive fashion, outscoring the competition 21-2, and have shut out 4 of those opens. Those 21 goals have the Rattlers third in the nation for goals, assists and total points. Senior Forward Juni Ejere leads the team in goals scored with 7, placing her seventh in the nation in both goals, (8) and total points (19). The Rattlers are currently 7-1.

Next off is the women’s tennis team, who is coming off a strong performance at the St. Mary’s Invitational. The Rattlers ended the tournament winning six singles and two doubles titles during play. The tournament was also highlighted by 4 Rattlers going undefeated in singles play.

The women’s golf team hopes to continue with the strong momentum that they had from last season this year. In their first tournament of the season at the West Texas A&M Fall invitational, the Rattlers were able to place fourth overall with a three-round total of 873. Senior Rebecca Reed led the Rattlers as she finished in seventh place.

The volleyball team continues to show flashes of greatness as they begin their second season under coach Laura Ulrich. As they wrap up their non-conference play with a record of 4-7, they hope to surge through conference play starting against Texas Women’s University on Sept. 16.

The Rattlers have also recorded multiple service aces throughout all of their season and have recorded a total of five or more, eight times throughout thier games.

couple of seasons. The Rattlers have started their season in a unique way. In the first four games, the Rattlers have won only one of those games and the other three games have all ended in a draw. The first win was also an upset victory with a final-minute goal against the ranked Colorado State University Pueblo Thunderwolves. Even with the unique start, the Rattlers have continued to make noise across the nation, being ranked as the twentyfirst team in the nation at one point. There is hope to continue making strides towards late-season success and another playoff spot. The rattlers currently have a record of 2-0-3.

all players shooting -4 on par 4 holes and was also able to score an eagle during the tournament. No team scores were recorded after frequent weather suspensions forced the tournament to end play early. The golf team hopes to build off this success at the Missouri Southern State University Fall Invitational on Sept. 26.

The men’s basketball team hopes to build off some of the success that they achieved last season as they prepare for the upcoming one. They finished last season with a recod of 12-13. The Rattlers begin their season in Colorado on Nov. 11, but start play in San Antonio as they play a cross-city exhibition match against the University of Texas at San Antonio on Nov. 14.

The women’s basketball team starts their season later in the fall but hopes to enter a brand new era in the program. After finishing 3-25 last year, the team hopes to make a comeback to a strong play style and success they have achieved in the past. The Rattlers are also led by a new head coach, Valerie Huizar, who will become the ninth coach in the program’s history. The Rattlers started their season on Nov. 11 at home against the Regis University Rangers.

The men’s soccer team is hoping to continue the success that they have been constantly able to replicate in their last

The men’s tennis team was able to end their first tournament play with two single titles and had a pair of doubles teams who were able to advance to the finals. This was before the matches were called off due to lightning. They hope to continue their success as they travel to Colorado for their next tournament.

The men’s golf team continued their success from their last season with a strong start in their first tournament. Senior Christian Hansen was able to win the first tournament of his career at the Dallas Baptist University Fall Classic. Hansen led

The St. Mary’s eSports program enters their third year at the university. The plan this season is to continue the success that they have consistently been able to replicate in thier various programs. They currently have “League of Legends,” “Rainbow 6 Siege,” “Rocket League,” “Starcraft II,” “Halo Infinite,” “Fortnite” and “Call of Duty: Vanguard” teams geared up for success this season. Their scheduling and match data can be found through their Twitch channel at twitch.tv/stmuesports.

The St. Mary’s STUNT program is in its first year of existence at the university and is the 13th varisty sport at the university. The sport looks to bring a new sense of energy to the athletics program. More information about the program’s schedule will be revealed as the rest of the fall goes on.

This fall looks to be another competitive one for the rattlers so be sure to come out and support the teams this season.

Meet Valerie Huizar, the newest women’s basketball coach

DIDIER CADENA SPORTS EDITOR

A new era of Rattler athletics has just begun. A new coach has been announced for the women’s basketball team. After the previous coach stepped away from the program after 19 years, 16 years as the head coach for the program last spring, is the time for the new head coach, Valerie Huizar, to take the reins.

Valerie Huizar returns to her hometown of San Antonio, Texas this year as she leads the program. Huizar’s exciting history during her collegiate career is one that deserves recognition. She graduated from O’Connor High School in San Antonio. She received a bachelor’s degree in elementary and secondary health and physical education from Louisiana State University of Shreveport in 2010 and also played for the school’s team. During her two seasons as a point guard, the school compiled a record 50-13 and was named the Gulf Coast Atlantic Conference (GCAC) Newcomer of the year award, and also received two First Team All-Conference awards, a National Association of Intercollegiate (NAIA) All American Honorable mention and A Third Team All-Louisiana award. She was also able to start all 63 games that she played in and averaged 11 points and 5.3 assists per game. She would go on to receive her Master of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Texas at Tyler in 2013.

Huizar’s assistant coach history for over the past decade is something to take note of. She first started off as an Assistant

Women’s basketball coach at Tyler Junior College, where the team finished 25-8 and was conference regular season champs and tournament runners-up. Upon moving back to San Antonio, she got a stint as the Assistant Women’s Basketball coach at Our Lady of the Lake University from 2012-2014. During her two years at OLLU, her teams went on to finish 57-9. The Saints were also able to finish top five in the nation in scoring, scoring margin, turnover ratio and steals per game as they won two regular season titles. Then she went on to become the Head Coach for the Louisiana State University of Shreveport Pilots for two seasons.

During her seasons as the head coach for the Pilots, the team was able to advance to the NAIA national tournament. The Pilots in her second season were able to finish with a record of 21-9 and had wins over three of the top 25 NAIA nationally ranked teams that year. After her time in Louisiana, she would go on to be an assistant coach here at St. Mary’s under predecessor Jason Martens. She would then go on to return to Louisiana when she received the position of assistant coach at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette Ragin’ Cajuns where she was for the last five years. During her time with the Ragin’ Cajuns, the team went 77-57. During her twelve years of coaching, she has been able to coach 29 all-conference players and seven All-Americans.

Huizar’s announcement as the head coach for the programs brings in a brand-new era for Rattler Athletics. She will be the ninthever coach of the program, and her resume is one for the big shoes she has to fill. When

asked about how she feels about coming back as the head coach for the Rattlers, she said “It’s a surreal and humbling feeling for sure. I’ve always had an admiration for this program and [an] appreciation for the players that have come through here. Having the opportunity to coach this group has been great so far, and I look forward to seeing what we can accomplish this season.” When asked about what she is excited about the most about being a part of the Rattler community she said, “Just being a small part of the rich tradition this Rattler community holds is exciting in itself. From the academic side to the athletic, there’s a long history of success at this place, and I’m just humbled to be a part of it now. Our players are working hard and getting better every day. They’re embracing the work and I’m proud of what

we’ve accomplished in 4 weeks of preseason thus far.” The expectations for this season would be “to simply improve in every aspect of the program each day. We want to establish a culture of winning in everything we do. The approach we take in the weight room, to the energy we bring on the court and staying consistent with our work ethic; all of these things we want to be better at…We’ll play a fun brand of basketball that I know fans will enjoy watching. Our players are invested in becoming better versions of themselves, and I’m looking forward to seeing their hard work pay off this year,” she concludes. This is an exciting time for the future of the women’s basketball program. Be sure to come out and support Coach Huizar and the lady rattlers as they begin their season on Nov. 11 against the Regis University Rangers.

The University welcomes Huizar as the new women’s basketball coach. | Courtesy of Rattler Athletics

Courtesy of A n t o n i o M orano Photography

Courtesy of Antonio Morano Photography

Partnership brings two physical therapy groups to university

DIDIER CADENA SPORTS EDITOR

St. Mary’s University- Having the option to receive the right care from the right people and at the right time is something that many student athletes think about. Injuries are scary and can happen when someone would least expect it. Getting injured is something that can be very detrimental and change an athlete’s life. To student athletes who rely on scholarships to cover the cost of their attendance at a university, the probability of getting injured and losing their scholarships is a worry that is also considered. In the past decade, universities’ attitudes have been dramatically changing in how they treat athletes, and the relationship between sports medicine and rehabilitation. So, a recent partnership from the University that has been years in the making shows that the best care is needed for our athletes.

Recently, the St. Mary’s Athletics Department announced a new collaboration with both the Sports Medicine Association of San Antonio and Texas Physical Therapy Specialists (TexPTS). This collaboration will help put St. Mary’s Athletics at the forefront of sports medicine departments in Division

II sports. The collaboration brings forth a connection to the university community that would not have been possible through the standard clinic and in a place where they might feel more comfortable.

TexPTS has provided care for over 15 years to help people get back on track in their recovery goals. This will be done by establishing clear goals and setting realistic expectations that strive for long-term recovery success. They also claim that they impact their patients’ lives by providing the best possible care and results through proven research, innovative treatments and technologies, and doing so in a way that treats their patients like family. TexPTS also hosts the largest amount of board-certified specialists in physical therapy in the state of Texas. The Sports Medicine Association of San Antonio Texas prides itself on its promise of, any athlete, any injury, anytime. They also have specializations in orthopedic, joint preservation, sports medicine, foot and ankle and concussion therapy services.

Another outcome of the collaboration is the opening of the new physical therapy clinic that has recently been open to the public back in August. This is the seventh

location for the Sports Medicine Association of San Antonio Texas and the fourth in collaboration with TexPTS. The clinic is also accessible to St. Mary’s students, faculty, and staff in need of physical therapy services. Anyone in need of services can schedule an appointment through a referral line through the Sports Medicine Association of San Antonio Texas. The implantation of the office will also allow those who visit to use either their own private insurance, or the one that is provided by the University’s office, and will be housed on the first floor of the Alumni Athletics & Convocation Center.

The ability to provide coverage on and

off the field, whether through a field or in a clinic, is something that should leave many excited and relieved. The faster and sooner that the University’s student athletes can safely rehabilitate and recover to once again perform at the highest level possible is one of the leading factors behind the collaboration. The fact that even those who don’t fall under the category of student athlete can still schedule appointments with the office and receive care on campus is a great thing to see. For those members of the St. Mary’s community who are interested and in need of scheduling an appointment, the office can reached at (210) 798-8591.

Intramurals program hopes to bring community together

DIDIER CADENA

SPORTS EDITOR

Any student at St. Mary’s University knows that there are a myriad of activities available for them to participate in on campus. A lot of Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) catch the interest of many students every year- from the first meetings to the last, there’s always something to keep oneself

busy with, and stay productive outside of the classroom. One of the most exciting organizations on campus year-round is the St. Mary’s Intramural program The ease of getting involved and the community aspect of it creates an enticing environment for the St. Mary’s community.

For those who are unaware, the St. Mary’s Intramural program is open to all current students, faculty, and staff. The purpose of

Intramural sports at the university is to have a broad and diverse program for all enrolled undergrad and graduate students, as well as the faculty and staff. Some of the teams can be made up of people from classes, residence halls, campus organizations or free agents. All of the activities or sports are designed to include all those who wish to apply regardless of their skill level and experience. The competition, showcased annually, is in the form of leagues, tournaments and special events depending on the semester of play, and the sports involved. The fees for participation in Intramural activities are assessed by the St. Mary’s Campus Recreation Department and are usually priced at $50 per team in the team sports leagues and tournaments.

The participation requirements for those who want to participate depend on the status of those who register for the sport. All those who want to register have to do so through IMLeagues.com. All students who want to participle must be currently enrolled full-time in the University. On the faculty and staff side, all they need is their Rattler ID cards. Also, those who participate can only do so on only one team in each league for each particular sport. The full set of rules and procedures made by Campus Recreation can be found on their website and in their handbook.

For this fall semester, the 7-on-7 Flag Football for the Men’s League had already started. The season for this semester started back on Sept. 6 and goes on to Sept. 30. The schedule for the games for those who are

interested in watching the teams play can be found on the intermurals website and later seen at the intramurals field.

Also offered to students for participation is the outdoor soccer league. Registration for this league opened on Sept. 19 and closes on Sept. 29. The teams could consist of up to 14 players. The season for soccer intramurals starts on Oct. 3 and goes on until Oct. 31.This can also be seen at the intramurals field. Following soccer, the Co-Ed volleyball league starts immediately right after. The registration opens up on Oct. 17 and goes until Oct 27. The season would then begin on Nov. 1 and would last until Nov. 25. The teams for this league can have a max of up to 15 people per team and a minimum of 6. The matches can be seen at Alumni Athletics Convocations Center auxilary court. The final sport for the fall semester will be the 3-on-3 basketball tournament. This lasts the latter half of November with the registration being available for those interested on Nov. 14 and is accessible until Nov. 28. The tournament will be played all on the same date in the AACC auxilary court on Nov. 30.

Intramurals are a great way for members of the St. Mary’s community to engage with others who share a love of sports and to have fun as members of St. Mary’s University. There is still time plenty of time to go to the intramurals website at IMLeagues.com to sign up for the various sports and to make teams. Be sure to be on the lookout for more information about intramurals from the Campus Recreation office.

Courtesy of Rattler Athletics

Graphic by Didier Cadena

Student leaders make remarkable impacts in university campus community

VICTORIA OLGUIN MANAGING EDITOR

Part of St. Mary’s University’s mission is to shape leaders for the common good through faith, a quality education, family spirit, service, change and adaptation. By focusing on this mission, St. Mary’s has been able to successfully shape leaders of the future who will no doubt create a lasting impact not only at the University, but also in San Antonio and beyond. To be a great leader, students must first understand what leadership means. Junior finance and risk management major and president of the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS), Ethan Stein shares what leadership means to them.

“Leadership is not necessarily being the best at something but making those around you better. They make

in this organization where sometimes, difficult topics must be discussed. “Leadership to me means listening to others, being able to teach the truth and being wise as to how to solve issues,” Lozano said. “CUFI educates the St. Mary’s community on what’s happening in the Middle East, because when Israel is attacked, so is America… they are our biggest allies. So, by informing students about the issues and how to speak the truth, we help by teaching others what’s beyond San Antonio, Texas, and the United States of America,” Lozano continued.

Leadership for other students means taking a step out of their comfort zones. Senior music education major

we are a healthcare organization, we bring in professionals from all different fields of healthcare to guest speak at our meetings. I believe that this is a very helpful way to network and explore different fields if you are interested in going into healthcare,” Macias said. “I love that we are able to make connections with many different professionals, support organizations with donation drives and help our community through service. These are the exciting things that we get to do as an organization,” Macias continued.

Sophomore entrepreneurship and innovation major, communication studies minor and Vice President of the

the organization better, they know when they need to take the backseat and be a follower, but more importantly, they understand when they need to step up and set the example,” Stein said. “I get to watch individuals grow. I watch people who may not know what they want to do yet identify goals and find ways to adapt and pursue them. It’s honestly just amazing to be a part of a process that betters the professional development of others,” Stein continued. “I have never had so many people dependent on me… This has taught me that it’s okay for a leader to struggle, that there is always room to improve and grow. There is no one size fits all leader. We all have drastically different styles. NSLS has [shown] me what I needed to improve on, and I’m working my way there,” Stein said.

For other students like sophomore digital marketing

and president of the Student Musicians Committee, Jared Barry thinks the same. “This is only my second time holding a leadership position with any organization. I was always afraid of being a leader, but this opportunity has really changed my view. It has shown me how to take the views of my fellow students and create a common goal for us to strive towards. I have been fortunate enough to be involved in a growing and determined organization that fosters leadership,” Barry said. Students have been able

Women’s Affairs Council, Sophia Phelan is another leader who works to bring networking and a safe space to the university campus. “This organization has given me a home. It’s given me a group that is supportive and understanding. We share and empathize, we learn and analogize. We talk in a safe space and work to create that for others,” Phelan said. “We often take for granted the structure of society. Women’s Affairs Council seeks to question and research intersectionality. This helps to dissect structures and build them better and more fair than before. The council also helps

major and President of the Catholic Student Association, Arty Cantu, leadership involves problems and finding ways to solve them effectively and inclusively. “Leadership to me means being able to take different perspectives on solutions and aiming to make sure that everyone is heard and represented,” Cantu said. “[The] Catholic Student Association has helped me learn to be accepting of failure and embracing disagreements because with disagreements, we sometimes get our best ideas,” Cantu continued. When asked the same question regarding disagreements, senior international business major and President of Christians United for Israel, Alondra Lozano agreed. It is especially

to practice what leadership means to them within their own organizations. Senior English major and President of Enactus, Morgan Kuchta has already been creating an impact in her community through community service. “Enactus is all about enacting positive change, and we’re accomplishing this through our community service projects. We’re inspiring each other, helping communities and taking steps to expand our scope of help, and I find that it’s impossible to not love it!” Kuchta said. “Enactus is an incredible help to numerous communities, and with more members, we can make greater impacts.” Kuchta continued. Junior international business marketing major and Vice President of Enactus, Stephanie Flores commented, “Enactus has allowed me to express my ideas and implement them to actually make a difference. With the projects we have planned this year and the members we have, we should be able to reach a lot of people and really make a difference,” Flores continued.

Similarly, senior exercise and sports science major and psychology minor and President of Health Occupations Students of America, Aileen Macias has helped her community through leadership. She has worked to bring resources and connections to students at St. Mary’s. “Since

to make us more aware of how we treat people and why,” Phelan continued.

Many students have had the experience of leadership not only in student organizations but in internships as well. As developing professionals, this can be a vital experience. Sophomore engineering science major, exercise and sports science minor and intern for Student Life, Brianna Valadez shares her experience with Emerging Leaders, “Emerging Leaders has allowed me to grow as not only a leader but a peer to others. The connections I have made are priceless. I have been shaped as a leader by developing my knowledge of my leadership abilities in order to more effectively pursue my personal goals [and] professional goals,” Valadez stated.

For junior computer science and application system major and Mariachi President, Sophia Rodriguez, leadership has personally helped them grow. “The organization has shaped me into someone who is dedicated, determined, caring and open-minded to everything that can come my way,” Rodriguez said.

Through faith, a quality education, family spirit, service, change and adaptation, St. Mary’s University has succeeded in developing leaders on campus. There is no doubt that an impact will be made not only at the University but in San Antonio and the greater community.

Portrait of junior Ethan Stein. | Photo by Larry Rodriguez-Shea

Portrait of senior Jared Berry. | Photo by Adrianna Mirabal

Portrait of junior Aileen Macias. | Photo by Aileen Macias

Portrait of sophomore Arty Cantu. | Photo by Viviana Gonzalez

Portrait of junior Stephanie Flores. | Photo by Stephanie Flores

Portrait of junior Sophia Rodriguez. | Photo by Angelica Trevino