University of Texas at San Antonio
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The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA or UT San Antonio) is a public research university in San Antonio, Texas, United States. Established in 1969,<ref name="UT System History">"">https://www.utsystem.edu/about/history-ut-system History of the University of Texas System Template:Webarchive University of Texas System. Retrieved December 25, 2012.</ref> UTSA is the largest university in San Antonio and the third-largest public research university in Texas by annual research expenditures,<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> enrolling approximately 38,200 students across six campuses spanning about 1,200 acres.<ref name="Overview">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
UT San Antonio is classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High Research Activity", a status held by 187 of the approximately 4,000 degree-granting postsecondary institutions in the U.S., representing about 4.7% of universities nationwide.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> UTSA generates $7 billion in annual economic impact.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
Student-athletes compete as The UTSA Roadrunners and are members of The American Athletic Conference (AAC). The football team, which was founded in 2009,<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> previously competed in Conference USA, the WAC and as a Football Championship Subdivision independent.<ref name="MySA UTSA officials happy">UTSA officials happy with attendance Template:Webarchive. San Antonio Express-News. Retrieved November 21, 2012.</ref><ref name="Joining CUSA">"UTSA to join Conference USA in 2013–14 Template:Webarchive. goUTSA.com. Retrieved December 2, 2012.</ref>
History
Establishment (1969 to 1970s)
The University of Texas at San Antonio was officially founded on June 5, 1969, by the 61st Texas Legislature as H.B. 42 and signed into law by Governor Preston Smith.<ref name="12-13 Bulletin">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation
|CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref name=Uncovered>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref name = "UTSA History Collection" >"A Guide to the UTSA General Information and University History Collection, 1967–2009 Template:Webarchive". UTSA Special Collections. Retrieved November 15, 2012.</ref> Frank Lombardino, a conservative Democrat who represented northwest Bexar County in the state legislature, was known as the "father of UTSA" due to his impassioned advocacy for the institution.<ref>"A Guide to the Frank Lombardino Papers, 1967–1978 Template:Webarchive". UTSA Special Collections. Retrieved December 25, 2012.</ref> When Governor Smith signed the bill officially establishing the university, he did so on the back of Lombardino in a ceremony in front of the Alamo.<ref>"UTSA to celebrate major milestones Template:Webarchive". UTSA Today. Retrieved December 25, 2012.</ref> At the university's inaugural commencement, the first diploma was also signed on Lombardino's back.<ref>"The First Commencement, 1974 Template:Webarchive". The Top Shelf. Retrieved December 25, 2012.</ref>
In 1970, the University of Texas Board of Regents appointed the university's first president, Arleigh B. Templeton, who served from 1970 to 1972, and received a land donation of Template:Convert in far northwest San Antonio for the site of UTSA.<ref name="Handbook">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The architecture firm of Ford, Powell and Carson Inc. was assigned to develop a master plan for the university.<ref name="History" /> O'Neil Ford, the designer of both the Tower of the Americas and the Trinity University tower, designed the campus to be reminiscent of an Italian village.<ref name="Look Whos Forty">"Look Who's Forty Template:Webarchive". UTSA Sombrilla Magazine. Retrieved May 10, 2013.</ref>
The 671 graduate students composing the first class at the university began attending classes on June 5, 1973.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation
|CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref name="UTSA History" /> Upperclassmen and lowerclassmen were admitted in 1975 and 1976, respectively.<ref name="12-13 Bulletin" /> Students temporarily attended class at the Koger Center, which also housed administrative offices until 1975, when construction on the Main Campus was completed.<ref name="UTSA History" /><ref name="Handbook" /> Enrollment during this time numbered 4,433 students.<ref name="Timeline">"UTSA Timeline Template:Webarchive". About UTSA. Retrieved July 8, 2012.</ref> UTSA began with five colleges: Business, Fine and Applied Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, Multidisciplinary Studies and Science and Mathematics.<ref name="History">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
By 1975, the university's future colors were being openly discussed among student leaders and the administration. UTSA's third color of blue was selected, beating out other proposed colors such as "fiesta red" and "cactus green".<ref>"Could UTSA Have Bled Fiesta Red? Template:Webarchive". The Top Shelf. Retrieved January 3, 2012.</ref> The John Peace Library opened the next year, serving as the new administrative headquarters for the university.<ref name="UTSA History">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
The discussion of a university mascot soon followed the selection of school colors. In the fall of 1977, an election was held to determine the school's mascot, with "the armadillos" and "the stars" taking the top two spots. However, the referendum was declared void by the student government and a new election was held with nine candidates and a write-in option. The top two choices from the second election, the roadrunner and the armadillo, campaigned in a competitive run-off. On December 9, 1977, the roadrunner was announced as UTSA's first and only mascot.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
James W. Wagener, a graduate of Southern Methodist University and former acting dean of the University of Texas Health Science Center, was selected to be UTSA's third president in 1978.<ref name="UTSA History" /><ref name="12-13 Bulletin" /> The Alumni Association was formed that same year, providing a new avenue of support for the university.<ref name="12-13 Bulletin" /> The first Fiesta UTSA was also held in April 1978, with multiple bands playing throughout the day and culminating in a school dance.<ref name=":7">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> At the end of the 1970s, enrollment numbered 9,400 undergraduate and graduate students.<ref name="Timeline" />
Early years (1980s to 1999)
The Paisano, was established in 1981 as the first independent student publication in the state.<ref name="Timeline" /><ref name=":7" /> During the fall of that year, the university began playing collegiate athletics.<ref>"UTSA's First 'Stadium' Template:Webarchive". The Top Shelf. Retrieved December 25, 2012.</ref> It was immediately elected to Division I status in the NCAA.<ref>"UTSA Bulletin 02-81 Template:Webarchive". UTSA Special Collections. Retrieved December 25, 2012.</ref> The Student Representative Assembly headed the burial of a time capsule in 1983, the university's 10th anniversary, instructing it to be opened on June 5, 2023.<ref>"10th Anniversary Time Capsule Template:Webarchive". UTSA Libraries. Retrieved July 26, 2012.</ref>
In 1986, UTSA acquired the Institute of Texan Cultures, a center for multicultural education in the state, as a campus.<ref name="UTSA History" /> During this year, both the University Center and Chisholm Hall, the university's first on-campus housing complex, opened.<ref name="Presidents">"UTSA's Presidents Template:Webarchive". About UTSA. Retrieved July 8, 2012.</ref>
In 1994 the U.S. Department of Education designated UTSA as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI).<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
On the first day of fall classes in 1996, a campus shooter stormed into the John Peace Library.<ref>"August 28, 1996 Template:Webarchive". The Victoria Advocate. Retrieved May 10, 2013.</ref> The perpetrator, Gregory Tidwell, murdered head of cataloging Stephen L. Sorensen before fatally shooting himself in the chest.
The University Center expanded in the late 1990s, breaking ground in 1995 on the 97,500-square foot, $13.2 million building, dubbed "UC Phase II", which included the new Retama Auditorium and UTSA Bookstore.<ref name="Timeline" /><ref name="UC History">"History Template:Webarchive". UTSA Events Management & Conference Services. Retrieved February 15, 2013.</ref> The Downtown Campus opened the doors to its permanent location on Interstate Highway 10 and Cesar Chavez Blvd. (then Durango Blvd.) in 1997.<ref name="UTSA History" />
Ricardo Romo, a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin and UCLA, became UTSA's fifth president in May 1999. He began with the ambitious agenda of aggressively expanding UTSA, both physically and academically, laying out the university's "Roadmap to Excellence".<ref>"Dr. Ricardo Romo Template:Webarchive". The University of Texas at Austin. Retrieved February 15, 2013.</ref> During his tenure, UTSA would grow 68% in student enrollment while adding new programs and facilities.<ref name="President's Bio">"President's Bio Template:Webarchive". UTSA. Retrieved February 15, 2013.</ref>
Expansion and growth (2000 to 2009)
In the mid-2000s decade, UTSA embarked on a long-term campaign to dramatically increase its national prestige and selectivity. A "Master Plan" was created in 2007 as a guide for this campaign and to direct the future physical growth of the institution. The "UTSA 2016" strategic plan, formulated at the same time, is guided by the Master Plan and forms the basis for the development of the university into a "premier research institution" by 2016.<ref name = "Master Plan Intro">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> John T. Montford—a San Antonio businessman, former chancellor of the Texas Tech University System, and a member of the Texas State Senate from 1983 to 1996—eventually established the UTSA presidents Dinner and, in 2007, the event raised US$4.6 million.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
From 2006 to 2009, UTSA completed over $250 million in construction projects. The $84 million five-story Biotechnology, Sciences and Engineering (BSE) Building opened its doors in 2006.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The university underwent extensive remodeling in 2009, renovating older buildings such as the John Peace Library (JPL), the Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS, now known as the McKinney Humanities or MH) and the Multidisciplinary Studies (MS) buildings. A new ceramics studio broke ground in 2009 and two adjacent science buildings underwent $24 million in renovations. The $83 million Applied Engineering and Technology building (AET) also opened its doors in 2009. A year later the AET Library opened as the nation's first completely bookless library on a college or university campus.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
Proposition 4 was passed by Texas voters in November 2009. This piece of legislation named 7 emerging research universities in Texas, UTSA being one, that could compete for additional state funds in an effort to increase the number of Tier One institutions in Texas. Factors such as research expenditures, graduate degrees awarded and scholarly productivity all play a part in which schools receive the most funding.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
Further expansion (2010 to 2020)
The first-time undergraduate acceptance rate, a common measurement for institutional selectivity, was 60% for the Fall of 2013.<ref name="Fact Book 2012 NU">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> U.S. News & World Report ranks UTSA's admissions process as "selective".<ref name="US News">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In 2010, the university hit a population benchmark of 30,000 students, signifying a growth rate of more than 39% over the past decade.<ref>"President's Newsletter – January 2013 Template:Webarchive". UTSA. Retrieved February 15, 2013.</ref><ref name = "Fact Book 2012 SE">"Student Enrollment Template:Webarchive". UTSA Fact Book 2012.</ref> UTSA was one of the fastest growing universities in Texas during this decade<ref name = "College Portraits">"Template:Usurped". College Portraits. Retrieved February 15, 2013.</ref> reaching nearly 31,000 students by 2012.<ref name="US News" /><ref name="utsa.edu 2012">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
However, in 2011, the Center for College Affordability and Productivity ranked UTSA's freshman as the second most "unhappy" in the country, based solely on low retention rates.<ref name="UTSA Students Reject 'Unhappy' Label">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The Associate Vice President refuted this claim<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> and members of Student Government Association sponsored a resolution rebuking the claims, pointing out the Coordinated Admissions Program skews freshmen retention rates.<ref>"UTSA ranked second most unhappy freshmen; CAP skews results Template:Webarchive". The Paisano. Retrieved November 23, 2012.</ref>
The North Paseo Building, a $15 million office building, began housing ROTC operations when it opened in October 2011. The Bauerle Road Garage, a 5-level parking facility with office space, opened in 2012. Dining services also expanded in 2008, continuing through 2011.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
That same year, the university also fielded its long-anticipated football team as an NCAA Football Championship Subdivision independent, with Larry Coker as the inaugural head coach.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The following year, 2012, UTSA, the city's sole NCAA Division I university at the time, became a member of the Western Athletic Conference; one year later, it moved to Conference USA.<ref>"Rivals UTSA, Texas State will join Western Athletic Conference in 2012 Template:Webarchive". kens5.com. Retrieved November 15, 2012.</ref><ref>"It's official: UTSA joins C-USA Template:Webarchive". San Antonio Express-News. Retrieved November 15, 2012.</ref> An athletic complex was constructed slightly west of the main campus and features pedestrian-friendly mixed-use areas. The complex, dubbed "Park West", adds another 125 acres to the university's property.<ref name="Master Plan Summary">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
In 2014 the "New" North Paseo building (NPB) was completed and now houses Computer Science and Cyber Security labs and classrooms. The NPB is also home to the Center for Infrastructure Assurance and Security (CIAS), Center for Education and Research in Information and Infrastructure Security (CERIIS), and the Institute for Cyber Security.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
Ricardo Romo, who had served as president since 1999, resigned on March 3, 2017, after having been placed on administrative leave. Pedro Reyes served as interim president from February through August 2017.<ref name="romostepsdown">Lauren Caruba and Silvia Foster-Frau, "Romo steps down as UTSA president: Leader had been under investigation", San Antonio Express-News, March 4, 2017, pp. 1, A14.</ref> On September 1, 2017, Thomas Taylor Eighmy, the vice chancellor for research and engagement at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, began serving as UTSA's sixth president.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
On June 9, 2017, UTSA introduced the largest construction project in its history with the announcement of a $95 million science and engineering building which opened in fall 2020.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> On September 6, 2018, UTSA announced it had received a $15 million gift from San Antonio business leader Graham Weston and $70 million commitment from The University of Texas System Board of Regents for construction of two new facilities at its Downtown Campus for a National Security Collaboration Center and a proposed School of Data Science which opened January 9, 2023 and became the first and only Data Science school in the state of Texas.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
Following an incident in 2018 where a student was escorted from a lecture hall,<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> a professor was suspended for a separate classroom management issue,<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> and later was not reinstated despite a petition from over 900 students.<ref name="30year">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
Modern university (2021–present)
In 2021, the College of Engineering and College of Architecture, Construction and Planning were merged to form the new College of Engineering and IntegratedDesign (CEID), officially launched on September 1, 2021.<ref>Template:Cite magazine</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> UTSA also acquired the Southwest School of Art which became part of a new school within UTSA's College of Liberal and Fine Arts.<ref name=":6">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} *{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
Toward the end of 2021, UTSA attained Carnegie Tier One research status.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The university also announced a partnership with UTHSCSA to create a new School of Public Health. The first MPH students were admitted in 2024 and Vasan Ramachandran was hired as dean of the new school.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
In September 2023, UTSA introduced a dual degree combining medicine and artificial intelligence. Medical students spend four years at the UT Health SA Long School of Medicine and one year at UTSA. Upon completion graduates earn a doctor of medicine (M.D.) and a masters of science degree in artificial intelligence.<ref name=":8" /> In January 2024, UTSA announced the creation of the College of AI, Cyber and Computing<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> which is centered on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and computer and data science to launch in Fall 2025.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
In August 2024, the University of Texas Board of Regents announced that UTSA and UT Health Science Center at San Antonio would be merging to form a "world class university in San Antonio."<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The merged universities, approved by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) in June 2025,<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> retained the UTSA name with current UTSA president Taylor Eighmy leading the new combined institution<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> on September 1, 2025.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
Campuses
Main Campus
The Main Campus, the original and largest, was born out of a 600-acre donation to the University of Texas Board of Regents.<ref name="Paisano Main Campus Anniversary">"University prepares for landmark anniversary Template:Webarchive". The Paisano. Retrieved July 5, 2012.</ref> It proved to be so controversially remote to the city (at the time) that many San Antonians nicknamed it "University of Texas at Boerne" or "UT Boerne".<ref name="Paisano Main Campus Anniversary" /><ref name="Biz Journal 05-02">"UTSA president fast-tracking expansion, image make-over Template:Webarchive". San Antonio Business Journal. Retrieved July 5, 2012.</ref><ref name="Biz Journal 09-09">"UTSA is searching for its first big football fundraising gift Template:Webarchive". San Antonio Business Journal. Retrieved July 5, 2012.</ref> The Main Campus opened its doors in 1975. Prior to that, classes were held at the Koger Center at Babcock Road and Loop 410.<ref name="Paisano Main Campus Anniversary" /> Roadrunner Cafe, the university's first dining hall, was erected in 2005.<ref name="UTSA Today Roadrunner Cafe">"Roadrunner Cafe opens, dining services get a new look Template:Webarchive". UTSA Today. Retrieved July 5, 2012.</ref> In 2006, UTSA acquired a 125-acre swath of land on Hausman Road to build its future athletics complex, bringing the Main Campus up to 725 acres in total.<ref>"UTSA to buy 125 acres near 1604 Campus Template:Webarchive". UTSA Today. Retrieved July 5, 2012.</ref> Up until 2009, it was known as the "1604 Campus", at which point it was renamed the "Main Campus" so as to better reflect its importance within the university and community as a whole.<ref name="Paisano Renaming">"UTSA adopts two new campus names; Main and Park West Template:Webarchive". The Paisano. Retrieved July 5, 2012.</ref> Students have the choice to live at one of the campus' many housing complexes.<ref name="UTSA Housing">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref name="UTSA 2038 Paisano">"UTSA 2038: a glimpse into the future – Paseo Template:Webarchive". The Paisano. Retrieved July 8, 2012.</ref>
Downtown Campus
The Downtown Campus in Downtown San Antonio houses parts of the College of Engineering and Integrated Design, College for Health, Community and Policy, and College of Education and Human Development. Many of the university's community outreach centers and institutes including the Texas State Data Center and The Urban Education Institute are located at the downtown campus as well.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In early 1993, the demolition of Fiesta Plaza made way for what would become the Downtown Campus.<ref name="DTC">"Home Template:Webarchive". UTSA Downtown Campus. Retrieved July 5, 2012.</ref> While construction was underway, the campus made its temporary home at Cypress Tower on Main Street, offering its first classes in January 1994.<ref name="DTC" /> Its permanent location on I-10 and Cesar E. Chavez Boulevard (formerly Durango Boulevard) was completed in 1997.<ref name="UTSA History" /> A new bus-rapid transit line, VIA Primo, opened in late 2012. Together with a VIA Express route, allows students to quickly commute between the UTSA Main Campus and the Downtown Campus.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
In 2018 UTSA President Eighmy announced a new $90 million 10-year advancement plan for the downtown campus which includes a $15 million gift from San Antonio business leader Graham Weston to support the university's proposed School of Data Science. At the same time, UTSA actively engaged in discussions with the City of San Antonio and Bexar County for the transfer of downtown parcels of land, valued at $13 million, to the university. Those parcels became the sites for the new school, a National Security Collaboration Center, and for the expansion of the UTSA College of Business.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
UTSA Institute of Texan Cultures
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The Institute of Texan Cultures previously housed at the Texas Pavilion, hosted the Texas Folklife Festival, an annual event celebrating the various cultures of Texas and their roles in the multicultural state. The ITC (as it is commonly known) was originally built as a $10 million project for HemisFair '68, with the stated goal of promoting awareness of the history and ethnic diversity of Texas.<ref name="ITC About">"About UTSA – About The Museum Template:Webarchive". Institute of Texan Cultures.</ref><ref>"University of Texas Institute of Texan Cultures Template:Webarchive". The Handbook of Texas Online – Texas State Historical Association.</ref> It was turned over to the University of Texas System after the conclusion of the world's fair, being designated as a campus of UTSA in 1986.<ref name="UTSA History" /> It served to further historical research, housing both UTSA's archives and historic photography collection with over 3 million images.<ref name="Master Plan ITC">"HemisFair Park Campus Template:Webarchive". UTSA Master Plan. Retrieved July 8, 2012.</ref> The ITC formalized an agreement with the Smithsonian Institution in 2010 to obtain affiliate status. Funding for the ITC primarily came from legislative appropriations, event admissions fees, grants and contributions.<ref name="About ITC">"About The Museum Template:Webarchive". Institute of Texan Cultures. Retrieved December 8, 2012.</ref> It was announced on April 3, 2024, that the building housing The ITC would close by May 2024 and the current future of the museum is unknown at this time other than the museum will be temporarily operating out of the Frost Tower's 1st floor beginning in early 2025 and lasting at least five years.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation
|CitationClass=web }}</ref>
Park West Campus
Located less than 2 miles west of the Main campus, the 125-acre Park West Campus is currently home to the UTSA Roadrunners soccer and track-and-field facilities. Park West is also designated as a host site for community sporting events.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Construction of a new 80,000-square-foot state of the art outpatient facility is slated to be complete by summer 2023,<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> once complete it will offer Student-athletes access to enhanced imaging and surgical services, primary care, orthopedics, physical therapy and other specialties. The center will ultimately support the sports medicine program for UTSA student-athletes and provide future collaborative opportunities in academics, research and health care delivery.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
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Southwest Campus
The Southwest Campus is located on the San Antonio River in downtown San Antonio. Considered an "urban oasis", the campus has been a place of learning for more than 165 years. The buildings and campus were originally known as the Ursuline Convent and Academy, which opened in 1851. The campus is now home to part of the UTSA School of Art.<ref name=":6" /><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
One Riverwalk Place
Purchased in March of 2025 River One is located at 700 N. St. Mary's St., across the River Walk from UTSA Southwest, and home to the Klesse College of Engineering and Integrated Design's School of Architecture + Planning.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
Academics
Template:Infobox U.S. college admissions The University of Texas at San Antonio is composed of 15 colleges and schools.<ref name="UTSA Fast Facts">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Students and alumni at UTSA have been awarded prestigious fellowships such as the Ford Foundation Fellowship,<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> National Science Foundation's Research Fellowship, The Barry Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation,<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> and the Fulbright scholarship.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In 2021 UTSA was the only Texas university to receive four Barry Goldwater Scholars awards, being accompanied by fellow national universities such as Carnegie Mellon University, University of Michigan, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Harvard University.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web
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The College of Sciences collaborates with other research institutions in San Antonio such as Southwest Research Institute, Texas Biomedical Research Institute and UT Health-San Antonio.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Since 2005, UTSA and Southwest Research Institute have maintained a joint doctoral program focusing on space physics.<ref>"Academic Highlights Template:Webarchive". The University of Texas at San Antonio. Retrieved May 17, 2013.</ref>
UTSA is the recipient of the CAE-Cyber Operations, CAE-Information Assurance Research (CAE-R), and CAE-Cyber Defense designations making it one of the few universities in the nation to hold three National Center of Excellence designations from the National Security Agency.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref name=":9">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
UTSA, which is designated as a Hispanic Serving Institution, became the recipient of Excelencia in Education's Seal of Excelencia in 2020 and is one of only 14 colleges and universities nationwide to earn this certification.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web
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The Human Health Initiative, launched by UTSA in November 2018, resulted in The College for Health, Community and Policy being established in 2019 as an innovative new college dedicated to advancing human health.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The six-year undergraduate graduation rate of UTSA's Roadrunner cohort increased to 50.8%, as of Fall 2019.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
UTSA is designated an Innovation and Economic Prosperity (IEP) University by the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities (APLU), a membership advocacy organization that fosters a community of university leaders working to advance the mission of public research universities.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
Colleges and Schools
- Alvarez College of Business
- College of AI, Cyber and Computing
- School of Data Science
- School of Dentistry
- College of Education and Human Development
- Klesse College of Engineering and Integrated Design
- College for Health, Community and Policy
- Honors College
- College of Liberal and Fine Arts
- Long School of Medicine
- School of Nursing
- College of Pharmacy
- School of Public Health
- College of Sciences
- University College
Rankings
Template:Infobox US university ranking
| CitationClass=web
}}</ref> | |
| Biological Sciences |
144 (tie) |
| Business |
Unranked |
| Chemistry |
119 (tie) |
| Computer Science |
120 (tie) |
| Education |
114 (tie) |
| Engineering |
136 (tie) |
| English |
131 (tie) |
| Fine Arts |
135 (tie) |
| Mathematics |
173 (tie) |
| Physics |
167 (tie) |
| Psychology |
165 (tie) |
| Public Affairs |
144 (tie) |
| Social Work |
77 (tie) |
| Statistics |
79 (tie) |
According to U.S. News & World ReportTemplate:'s 2026 rankings, UTSA was ranked tied for 213st among national universities, tied for 118th among U.S. public schools, tied for 42th in the nation as a Top Performer on Social Mobility, and tied for 56rd for Most Innovative Schools.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
In the 2020 Global M.B.A. Rankings by CEO Magazine, The College of Business' Executive M.B.A. program at UTSA was ranked 8th globally.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In addition, UTSA's M.B.A. program was ranked as a Tier One Global M.B.A. program.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
Research
The University of Texas at San Antonio is classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High Research Activity"<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> and as a "Texas Tier One" institution.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> UTSA had $141.7 million in total research expenditures with $70.55 million in restricted research expenditures for FY22.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> UTSA students and faculty conduct research in cross-disciplinary fields of study which include Advanced Materials, Cloud Computing, Cyber Security and Data Analytics, Integrative Biomedicine, Social and Educational Transformation, and Sustainable Communities and Critical Infrastructure. UTSA is home to 33 research centers and institutes<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> and is a member of the National Academies' Government-University-Industry Research Roundtable (GUIRR).<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
A 2007 study released by Academic Analytics showed UTSA was ranked fifth among other large research universities in the state of Texas for faculty scholarly productivity.<ref>UTSA ranks fifth in Texas research productivity Template:Webarchive, "UTSA Today", June 20, 2007.</ref> The Office of the Vice President for Research publishes "Discovery", an annual magazine dedicated to highlighting the research, academic and creative achievements of the UTSA community.<ref name="Discovery 2012">"Discovery 2012, Volume 5 Template:Webarchive". The University of Texas at San Antonio. Retrieved November 29, 2012.</ref> First printed in 2007, the publication is a member of the University Research Magazine Association, an organization that promotes excellence among the scholarly publications of universities.<ref name="Discovery 2012" /><ref>"About URMA Template:Webarchive". URMA. Retrieved November 29, 2012.</ref>
The University of Texas at San Antonio is home to the Curtis Vaughan Jr. Observatory<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> and a member of the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA), a consortium of US institutions and international affiliates that operates world-class astronomical observatories on behalf of NASA and NSF.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
The UTSA Center for Advanced Measurements in Extreme Environments (CAMEE)<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> collaborates with NASA to push the boundaries of current measurement and modeling technology by conducting research in harsh and extreme environments. CAMEE also studies the challenging conditions produced when traveling at hypersonic speeds.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
The U.S. Department of Energy selected UTSA to lead the Cybersecurity Manufacturing Innovation Institute (CyManII).<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> This federal research institute focuses on achieving energy efficiency, job creation, technical innovation and security of supply chain networks and automation for goods such as electric vehicles, solar panels and wind turbines.<ref>Template:Cite journal</ref> The National Security Collaboration Center (NSCC) at UTSA, is the home base for the CyManII.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
UTSA operated the Center for Archaeological Research, which in 1984 did a study of the former Hot Wells hotel, spa and bathhouse on the San Antonio River in the southside of San Antonio. The survey determined all which remained of the resort were remnants of the 1902 hotel building, bathhouse ruins, and stones of a small nearby building.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In 2015, work was authorized by the Bexar County Commissioners Court to begin restoring Hot Wells.<ref>John W. Gonzalez, "Hot Wells poised to spring alive again: County OKs first phase of improvements for new park", San Antonio Express-News, October 10, 2015, pp. 1, A12</ref>
Programs
FAME
In 2013, the University of Texas at San Antonio established Facilitated Acceptance to Medical Education (FAME), an accelerated medical program to rising high school seniors. Accepted students, after completing a three-year undergraduate education at UTSA, matriculate to UT Health-San Antonio.<ref name="som.uthscsa.edu">"[1] Template:Webarchive". URMA. Retrieved November 13, 2015.</ref>
Bold Promise
In December 2019, UTSA established the Bold Promise program which offers qualified incoming freshmen who come from middle and low-income Texan families to have tuition and fees covered 100% for eight fall/spring semesters taken within a 4-year time period. Costs are covered by scholarships, grants or tuition exemptions from federal, state and/or institutional funds.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
UTSA Top Scholar
Launched in fall 2013, the UTSA Top Scholar program is a premier scholar program combining a comprehensive, four-year, merit based scholarship with personalized experiences in academics, leadership and service, including a global opportunity, for high achieving students.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
Dual Degree in Artificial Intelligence and M.D.
As the first dual degree in the United States to combine medicine and artificial intelligence medical students will spend four years at the UT Health SA Long School of Medicine and one year at UTSA, earning a doctor of medicine and a master's of science degree in artificial intelligence.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref name=":8">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
Student life
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There are 350 student organizations on campus.<ref name="RSOs">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Some organizations that receive funding from the University Student Services fee. These sponsored student organizations are the only Registered Student Organizations (RSOs)<ref name="Use of the term RSO">"UTSA – Events Management Template:Webarchive". UTSA Events Management. Retrieved July 4, 2012.</ref> that may use "UTSA" in their name.<ref name="Guidelines for naming RSO">"Guidelines for naming your Student Organization Template:Webarchive". UTSA Student Life. Retrieved July 4, 2012.</ref>
Beaks Up Speak Up is an organization supported by the UTSA Office of Student Activities, that educates the student body on issues related to being an active bystander. The organization facilitates a culture of care for all members of the UTSA community to recognize potential harm, choose to respond, and act in a way that positively influences the outcome for other people. The group facilitates workshops on a variety of topics that impact the physical, mental and emotional wellbeing of others, assists campus partners with resources that would aid in successfully reducing risk through their programming, and teaches marketable skills to students.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref name="BARR">"Be A Responsible Roadrunner Template:Webarchive". UTSA Student Activities. Retrieved July 5, 2012.</ref><ref>"UTSA receives alcohol abuse prevention award at national conference Template:Webarchive". UTSA Today. Retrieved July 5, 2012,</ref>
The Campus Activities Board (CAB) is the largest student program board on campus.<ref name="About CAB">"About Us Template:Webarchive". Campus Activities Board. Retrieved July 4, 2012.</ref> It fosters traditions and community at the university by coordinating large-scale events such as Best Fest, Fiesta UTSA and various homecoming functions.<ref name="About CAB" /><ref name="Join CAB">"Join CAB Template:Webarchive". Campus Activities Board. Retrieved July 4, 2012.</ref>
The College Democrats and College Republicans at UTSA both date back to the late 1970s.<ref>"Roadrunner 1989-02-16 Template:Webarchive". UTSA Libraries. Retrieved December 8, 2011.</ref><ref name="Roadrunner First Young Dems">"Roadrunner 1977-04-11 Template:Webarchive". Roadrunner. UTSA Libraries. Retrieved December 8, 2011.</ref><ref>"Roadrunner 1977-09-26 Template:Webarchive". UTSA Libraries. Retrieved December 8, 2011.</ref><ref>"Links Template:Webarchive". College Republicans @ UT San Antonio. Retrieved December 9, 2011.</ref> The two organizations have brought notable public officials to campus such as Bill White, Congressman Joaquin Castro, Congressman Pete Gallego, Judge Juanita Vasquez-Gardener, State Senator Joe J. Bernal, Councilman John Clamp, and Senator Bob Krueger.<ref name="Roadrunner First Young Dems" /><ref>"Democratic Rival Says Governor Failing UTSA Template:Webarchive". San Antonio Express-News. Retrieved December 8, 2011.</ref><ref>"Roadrunner 10-24-77 Template:Webarchive". UTSA Libraries. Retrieved December 8, 2011.</ref><ref>"'Rooster' hosts UTSA Republican forum Template:Webarchive". The Paisano. Retrieved November 23, 2012.</ref><ref>"Forum brings candidates to UTSA campus Template:Webarchive". The Paisano. Retrieved November 23, 2012.</ref>
Residential life
UTSA offers several options for on-campus housing:<ref name=":5">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
- Alvarez Hall ("Alvarez"): A four-story residence hall and the second newest housing complex on campus, opened in the fall of 2013, with 618 students. It is situated next to Chaparral Village, Rec Fields, and the Convocation Center. Students are organized into "special interest communities", including the Engineering, Honors, Leadership and Service, First Gen Familia and Medical Humanities communities.<ref>"UTSA builds for the future" Template:Webarchive. The Paisano, June 3, 2013. Accessed October 27, 2013</ref> Laundry facilities are in each wing. A community kitchen and computer lab are in the second floor lobby.
- Blanco Hall: A new residence hall for first-year students and sophomores expected to open in June 2025. Blanco will accommodate 594 students in a mix of single- and double-bed units, putting the university at a total of 5,183 beds. It will be located at the intersection of Barshop Blvd. and Tobin Ave. next to Chisholm Hall. Construction began in fall 2023.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation
|CitationClass=web }}</ref>
- Chaparral Village ("Chap"): Apartment-like suites with private bedrooms, fully furnished living rooms and a kitchenette are available in 2 or 4-bedroom configurations housing 1,000 students. Amenities include paid utilities, high-speed Internet access, cable, outdoor swimming pool and basketball court. Four Neighborhood Centers provide student residents with community kitchens, laundry and dishwashing appliances.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation
|CitationClass=web }}</ref>
- Chisholm Hall ("Chisholm"): The oldest housing complex on campus, opened in 1986; a four-story dormitory for approximately 500 student residents. It offers rooms in 1 and 2-person configurations, with an activity center, study lounges, and a community kitchen.<ref name=":5" />
- Guadalupe Hall ("Guad"): The $43.6 million four-story residence hall is designed for incoming honors students. In addition to dormitory rooms, a community kitchen, and laundry facilities, the building also offers multipurpose spaces for study groups and collaborative learning. Guadalupe Hall opened its doors to residents in the fall semester of 2021.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation
|CitationClass=web }}</ref>
- Laurel Village ("Laurel"): UTSA's third newest on-campus housing complex, completed in 2008, houses 678 students. Similar in design to Chaparral Village, Laurel residents are also able to use Chap's pool, hot tub, and outdoor picnic areas.<ref name=":5" /> Two Neighborhood Centers provide residents with community kitchens, laundry and dishwashing appliances. Laurel offers a full-year leasing option for those in search of year-round housing.
- University Oaks ("U Oaks" or simply "the Oaks"): Apartments with 1, 2, and 4-bedroom configurations; second-oldest housing complex on campus. Amenities include paid utilities, high-speed Internet access, and cable. "Rowdy Houses" provide residents with activity centers, 24-hour laundry service and pool access. University Oaks houses approximately 1,400 students in total.
Greek life
Greek life<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> at UTSA is directed by the four governing bodies: the Panhellenic Council (6 chapters),<ref name="PHC">"Panhellenic Council Template:Webarchive". UTSA Greeklife. Retrieved July 4, 2012.</ref> the Interfraternity Council (11 chapters),<ref name="Greek Life Directory" /> the National Pan-Hellenic Council (7 chapters),<ref name="NPHC">"National Pan-Hellenic Council Template:Webarchive". UTSA Greeklife. Retrieved July 4, 2012.</ref> and the Multicultural Greek Council (7 chapters).<ref name="Greek Life Directory">"Greeklife Directory Template:Webarchive". UTSA Greeklife. Retrieved July 4, 2012</ref><ref name="MCG">"Multicultural Greek Council Template:Webarchive". UTSA Greeklife. Retrieved July 4, 2012</ref> Greek life was first established in 1977.<ref name="Greek History">"Greek Life History Template:Webarchive". UTSA Greeklife. Retrieved July 4, 2012.</ref>
ROTC programs
UTSA has one of the most extensive Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs in the United States and is the nation's seventh largest<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Air Force ROTC program with over 200 cadets. In 2009, the school's Air Force ROTC detachment won the Right of Line Award, the most prestigious award among all Air Force ROTC units, ranking first in the Southwest Region out of 36 detachments for producing the most second lieutenants in the Air Force. At the national level, (among 144 detachments), UTSA was ranked second behind Purdue University. UTSA also has a large Air Force ROTC program among Hispanic Serving Institutions .<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> In 2009, The AFROTC unit was awarded 36 slots for field training compared to Texas A&M University, which had 32.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
Student Government
The Student Government Association, originally founded as "Student Representative Assembly" ("SRA"), was established in 1976. The organization's name changed to "Student Government Association" for the second Constitution in 1993. In October 1976, the UTSA student body voted to accept a constitution establishing the Student Representative Assembly. The constitution was drafted by a student committee and approved by the Board of Regents of the University of Texas System.<ref name=":3">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
The Student Government Association (SGA) is the official voice of the university's student body.<ref>"Student Government Association – About Us Template:Webarchive". UTSA Rowdy Link. Retrieved July 4, 2012.</ref> Its officers and committees reflect that of the United States federal government, using a three-branch system.<ref name="SGA Constitution">"Student Government Association Constitution Template:Webarchive". UTSA RowdyLink. Retrieved July 4, 2012.</ref><ref>"Committees Template:Webarchive". UTSA Student Government Association. Retrieved July 4, 2012.</ref> Student Government hosts the University Life Awards, a large celebration in the Ballroom that recognizes excellence in leadership throughout the campus.<ref>"Student Government Association – The University Life Awards Template:Webarchive". UTSA RowdyLink. Retrieved July 4, 2012.</ref> All students are considered members of SGA, due to both the fact its activities are subsidized through the Student Services Fee and it represents the views of the entire student body.<ref name="SGA Constitution" />
Accomplishments credited to the association include facilitating voting for a university mascot in 1977, advocating for building a university center in 1979, sponsoring the first Fiesta UTSA in 1980, distributing the University Life Awards to recognize outstanding efforts of students, faculty and staff,<ref name=":3" /> expanding dining hours, advocating for the installation of the Roadrunner statue,<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> and renovating the Sombrilla fountain.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
The Paisano
{{#invoke:Labelled list hatnote|labelledList|Main article|Main articles|Main page|Main pages}} The Paisano is the student-run newspaper of the university. It has remained fully independent since its inception in 1981 and has received numerous awards from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association, including a gold medal in 2000.<ref name="Paisano About Us">"About Us Template:Webarchive". The Paisano. Retrieved November 23, 2012.</ref> The Paisano is the oldest independent collegiate student newspaper in Texas and one of only approximately a dozen independent student newspapers in the nation.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
Traditions
The official colors of UTSA are blue and orange.<ref name="UTSA Colors">"Color – Identity Guidelines Template:Webarchive". The University of Texas at San Antonio. Retrieved July 5, 2012.</ref> The colors of the University of Texas System have historically been orange and white. Blue was selected upon the recommendation of the Student Representative Assembly in accordance with the Board of Regents' Rules and Regulations, which states "an institution may adopt one additional color to be used in connection with athletic and other activities of the institution".<ref name="UT System Board of Regents Rules & Regulations">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
The Greater Roadrunner, a bird representative of the Texas Hill Country and the American Southwest, was voted the UTSA mascot in 1977.<ref name="UTSA University Publications Collection, 1973-1999">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> "Rowdy the Roadrunner" attends many university functions and games. On March 1, 2008, UTSA Athletics unveiled its new logos during the Homecoming Game against Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi. The athletic markings were changed to further differentiate it from other bird mascots such as the University of Kansas Jayhawk.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
Class ring
The night before class ring ceremonies, the UTSA rings are placed within the Alamo overnight,<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> a tradition that began in 2012 as part of the university's efforts to build upon longstanding traditions.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref>
Best Fest and Fiesta UTSA
Fiesta UTSA, an annual event held in April, began in 1978.<ref name="UTSA University Communications Records, 1972-2002 Guide">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The first Fiesta UTSA was attended by over 1,000 students and included music, a jalapeño eating contest, a watermelon seed spitting contest, a dunk tank, and other activities.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Fiesta UTSA includes booths set up under the Sombrilla in a carnival atmosphere and run by Registered Student Organizations. Fiesta UTSA became the kickoff event for Fiesta San Antonio each spring, having been added to the official Fiesta San Antonio schedule in 1980.<ref name="UTSA University Publications Collection, 1973-1999" /> Fiesta UTSA was renamed by students in 2022, and is now known as Día en la Sombrilla.
Best Fest, an annual celebration held in October, began in 1978 (as "Bestfest") as "a special salute to five of the state's outstanding festivals," including New Braunfels's Wurstfest, Corpus Christi's Buccaneer Days, San Antonio's Fiesta, the Texas State Fair in Dallas, and George Washington's Birthday Celebration in Laredo.<ref name="UTSA University Communications Records, 1972-2002 October 10, 1979">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> It was presented by the student organization Variety 79.<ref name="UTSA University Communications Records, 1972-2002 October 11, 1978">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In 1979, the event was said to be "a salute to five of the city's outstanding festivals: Fiesta Navidena, King William Fair, La Feria del Rio, the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo, and the Texas Folklife Festival."<ref name="UTSA University Communications Records, 1972-2002 October 10, 1979" />
Birds Up hand sign
The origins of the Birds Up hand sign dates back to 1979 during Wurstfest in New Braunfels, Texas. The gesture is made by making a fist with the palm facing away from the body, then extending the pinky finger and thumb. The thumb represents the head of the roadrunner while the pinky finger represents the tail.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
Homecoming
Homecoming has many traditions at UTSA. One of the most notable is the annual Golf Cart Parade.<ref name="Traditions RRDays">"Traditions Template:Webarchive". UTSA Roadrunner Days. Retrieved December 8, 2012.</ref> Student organizations design and create decorated golf carts according to the year's homecoming theme.<ref name="Traditions RRDays" /><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Each submission is constructed by students at the Golf Cart Decorating Party, an event held a few days before.<ref>"Golf Cart Decorating Party Template:Webarchive". UTSA Homecoming 2012. Retrieved December 9, 2012.</ref> The parade has been an official part of the university's homecoming ceremonies since 1993.<ref name="UTSA Homecoming 2012">"Homecoming 2012 Template:Webarchive". UTSA. Retrieved December 8, 2012.</ref> In 2004 it was combined into the Rowdy Rampage Fireworks Spectacular, alongside the spirit rally and a live music concert.<ref name="UTSA Homecoming 2012" />
University Life Awards
The University Life Awards (also known as the "ULAs") is an award ceremony sponsored by Student Government Association to recognize outstanding leadership on campus.<ref>"UTSA community: Submit nominations by March 9 for University Life Awards Template:Webarchive". UTSA Today. Retrieved July 4, 2012.</ref> It recognizes students, student organizations, faculty and staff who have made an exceptional difference in the UTSA community.<ref>"SGA presents University Life Awards 2007 Template:Webarchive". UTSA Today. Retrieved July 4, 2012.</ref> It is touted as the university's oldest tradition.<ref name="UTSA Today 3-11">"UTSA Student Government Association hosts University Life Awards March 31 Template:Webarchive". UTSA Today. Retrieved July 4, 2012.</ref> Awards include Most Outstanding Student (by colleges and classification), Greek Man and Woman of the Year, the Jane Findling Award and the Golden Feather Award.<ref>"SGA announced University Life Awards winners Template:Webarchive". UTSA Today. Retrieved July 4, 2012.</ref>
Athletics
{{#invoke:Labelled list hatnote|labelledList|Main article|Main articles|Main page|Main pages}} UTSA is San Antonio's only NCAA Division I FBS institution and is currently a member of The American Athletic Conference (AAC). The Roadrunners compete in 17 intercollegiate sports including baseball, men's and women's basketball, men's and women's cross country, football, men's and women's golf, women's soccer, softball, men's and women's tennis, men's and women's indoor and outdoor track and field, and women's volleyball.<ref>"Home Template:Webarchive". goUTSA.com. Retrieved December 4, 2012.</ref> The university has hosted 17 NCAA Division I Championships since 1997 including four men's Final Fours, two women's Final Fours and a pair of women's Volleyball Championships.<ref>"Hickey named Division I-AAA administrator of year Template:Webarchive". UTSA Today. Retrieved December 4, 2012.</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> UTSA has captured more than 70 conference championships, appeared in more than 50 NCAA postseason appearances,<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> and has garnered two NCA national championships.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}Template:Dead link</ref> The home of the UTSA basketball and volleyball teams is the Convocation Center, a multipurpose arena with more than 4,000 seats at the UTSA Main Campus. The Park West Athletics Complex opened in 2013 as the home of the soccer and track & field programs. The baseball, softball and tennis teams all play at on-campus facilities.
UTSA maintains a rivalry with Texas State University in a series known as the I-35 Rivalry.<ref name="TXST I-35 Rivalry">"I-35 Maroon vs. Orange Rivalry Series Template:Webarchive". Texas State University. Retrieved November 22, 2012.</ref> Separated by about 50 miles (~80 km), both schools have been conference rivals since 1991, first in the Southland Conference and then in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC). UTSA and Texas State are now in different conferences, with UTSA in The American Athletic Conference (AAC) and Texas State in the Sun Belt Conference. The leadership of both universities have stated their interest in preserving the football rivalry, even as the institutions are in different conferences.<ref>"UTSA-Texas State set to start gridiron rivalry Template:Webarchive". San Antonio Express-News. Retrieved November 22, 2012.</ref>
In 2019, after working closely with Brenda Tracy who is the founder of the national campaign and non-profit SetTheExpectation,<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> UTSA became the first university in the nation to implement the Tracy Rule which is the most comprehensive Serious Misconduct rule in the NCAA.<ref name=":2">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web
}}</ref><ref>Template:Citation</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref>
The rule ensures that a current or prospective student-athlete who has been convicted of, pleaded guilty or no contest to a felony or misdemeanor involving Serious Misconduct, has been found a delinquent in relationship to a juvenile code equivalent, or has been disciplined by the university or athletic department at any time during enrollment at any collegiate institution (excluding temporary disciplinary action during an investigation) due to Serious Misconduct shall not be eligible for athletically related financial aid, practice or competition at The University of Texas at San Antonio.<ref name=":2" />
Football
{{#invoke:Labelled list hatnote|labelledList|Main article|Main articles|Main page|Main pages}}
Football has always been a great topic of conversation in the UTSA community since the university's very beginning.<ref name="1971 No Football">"UTSA will not have football Template:Webarchive". Coker Chronicles. Retrieved November 21, 2012.</ref><ref name="Athletics Fee Increase">"UTSA students pass athletics fee referendum Template:Webarchive". UTSA Today. Retrieved November 21, 2012.</ref> In a 1971 article famously titled "UTSA will not have football", president Arleigh Templeton dismissed the idea of the university acquiring a football team, stating "When we do begin playing football we will be playing the best competition available."<ref name = "1971 No Football" /> A 2007 student referendum doubled the university's athletics fee, effectively paving the way for the program's arrival in the fall of 2011.<ref name = "Athletics Fee Increase" />
The football team plays its home games in the 65,000-seat Alamodome in Downtown San Antonio. The university won its first football game against Northeastern State University on September 3, 2011, in front of a record attendance of 56,743. Thus setting the NCAA's record for the highest-attended inaugural game for a start-up program.<ref name="MySA UTSA officials happy" /> The Roadrunners also broke the attendance record for an inaugural season, averaging 35,521 per game.<ref name = "MySA UTSA officials happy" /> UTSA lead the WAC in attendance for the 2012 season.<ref>"UTSA's home attendance No. 1 in WAC despite a dropoff Template:Webarchive". UTSA Sports – MySA. Retrieved November 21, 2012.</ref> The Roadrunners now compete in The American Athletic Conference (AAC) after previously being a part of Conference USA. The UTSA administration was very supportive of the move along with AAC commissioner Mike Aresco stating, "We're really excited about UTSA coming into our conference. They bring so much, and this community brings so much, I said to myself, 'Why didn't we do it before?' We had 11 teams for a while, and we didn't expand, and you just can't get a better program coming in."<ref>Template:Cite news</ref>
Notable alumni
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Sports broadcaster Michelle Beadle
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NBA Player and 2005 Champion with the San Antonio Spurs Devin Brown
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Member of the U.S. House of Representatives and the first Republican to represent Texas's 15th congressional district Monica De La Cruz
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American journalist/news anchor and former co-host of Extra Dayna Devon
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10th President of Carnegie Mellon University Farnam Jahanian
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NFL Tight End David Morgan II and UTSA's first NFL Draft Pick in program's history
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Lt General of the U.S. Air Force Anthony J. Rock
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8 time Grammy Award nominee and Billboard Music Award and a Latin Grammy Award recipient Travis Scott
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Major General of the U.S. Air Force Sarah E. Zabel
See also
Notes
References
External links
- Template:Official website
- UTSA Roadrunners Athletics
- Alvarez College of Business official website
- College of AI, Cyber and Computing official website
- School of Data Science official website
- School of Dentistry official website
- College of Education and Human Development official website
- Klesse College of Engineering and Integrated Design official website
- College for Health, Community and Policy official website
- Honors College official website
- College of Liberal and Fine Arts official website
- Long School of Medicine official website
- School of Nursing official website
- College of Pharmacy official website
- School of Public Health official website
- College of Sciences official website
- University College official website
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- University of Texas at San Antonio
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- Public universities and colleges in Texas
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- Tourist attractions in San Antonio
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