Sharing our Story

What do I do when I get to a legislative office?

Prior to your visit, determine which member of your group will do introductions, and who will speak about each legislative priority.

When you arrive, identify your group. Tell them you’re students/alumni/faculty members from UTSA.

Sign the guest book and thank them for their support of UTSA.

When you speak to the legislator, if it’s your local Senator or Representative, make sure they know you are a constituent who resides in their district.

You will meet with the chief of staff or aide in charge of education issues if the legislator is busy. These people are important and will relay the information to the legislator.

Focus your discussion on UTSA’s legislative priorities. Share the Fiesta medals/cards as a way to guide the conversation. Be brief and to the point. If they need more information than you’re able to provide, tell them that you’ll ask someone to get back with them.

Before you depart, present the UTSA 50th t-shirt to the legislator or leave it with a member of their staff.

Are there any other tips I should know?

Be Patient. It is common for a legislator to be detained because of the demands on his/her schedule.

Be a Good Listener. It’s important to the legislator to have his/her view heard. Their comments and questions should provide insight for follow-up materials. View the meeting as an exchange of thoughts and information.

Be Responsive. Express to the member your willingness to get more information if he/she expresses interest or asks questions you are not prepared to answer.

Be Appreciative. Keep a friendly tone during the meeting. Recognize the contributions the Legislature has made in the past two sessions. Emphasize the importance of sustaining that momentum.

After Your Meeting. Email Tammy Ramos at tammy.ramos@ utsa.edu with questions or follow-up information requested by legislators.