Newsletter
The Family Association Newsletter provides you with insight into UTSA events, resources, opportunities, and talking points for supporting your student.
Highlights
Unwind Before the Grind
On Tuesday, November 11 and 19, Unwind Before the Grind offers students an opportunity to de-stress as finals approach. It is designed to help Roadrunners find time to relax and learn strategies for relieving stress before finals. There will be activities on both days from 1:30 pm through the evening. Events include Art of Wellbeing, Therapy Animals, Trivia, Candlelight Yoga, and so much more.


Stuff the Pantry,
then the Turkey
The Family Association is collecting donations to support the Roadrunner Pantry and Whataburger Resource Room on November 15 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Help us make sure no student goes without this holiday season.
- Drop-Off Location:
The Roadrunner Pantry and Whataburger Resource Room loading dock, located at the Student Union. We recommend entering the Main Campus from Loop 1604 - What to Donate:
Check out the list of high-demand items available on the pantry website. - Can't donate in-person?
You can still make an impact! Every dollar donated can build up to seven meals. Donate online: Roadrunner Pantry. - Want to Volunteer to Help? Volunteer today and show what Roadrunner families are made of… heart, hustle, and a whole lot of giving spirit!
Hunger and Homeless Awareness Week
Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week is November 16 to November 22. This is a nationwide initiative aimed at raising awareness about the issues of homelessness and hunger in our local communities and across America. Students are invited to various events throughout the campus. Explore activities and events on RowdyLink.


Lighting UTSA for the Holidays
Come together as a Roadrunner family at Light up the Lawn on Thursday, November 20 at 7:00 pm and enjoy the celebrations of various holidays and traditions that take place every year. Holiday traditions, food, live performances from student organizations, and activities are just a glimpse of what Light the Lawn has to offer. Grab your friends and watch as the Lawn lights up the night for the holiday season.
Resources and Opportunities
Financial aid advisors guide students through the financial aid process, highlighting important deadlines and programs. Roadrunners will learn about scholarships, grants, loans and work - study. The next Financial Aid session is on Wednesday, November 12 at 6:00 pm as a virtual meeting. Students should register for the event to receive the Zoom link.
Creativity could lead to NASA! Join the NASA Discovery by Design Challenge.
Open to all UT San Antonio majors, students create a 60– 90 second video or a poster.
Winners earn $500 scholarships and a VIP tour of NASA Johnson Space Center!
Please submit your video or poster by Saturday, November 15, 2025. Whether you're into business or accounting, STEM-focused, or a fine arts major, your perspective matters.
Elisa Garza, UTSA Dining Nutritionist, will kick off Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week on November 17 from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm with a “ Dine on a Budget” demonstration on how to cook up some budget-friendly meals using resources available at the Roadrunner Pantry, RowdyMart and local grocery stores. Students will learn to prepare three different meals and get a little taste of what they could create.
The Fall 2025 Commencement Ceremonies will be on Monday, December 15, at the Alamodome. The commencement website provides a list of colleges and their assigned ceremonies, as well as other helpful information to make the day perfect.
- Ceremony One at 10:00 am
- Ceremony Two at 4:30 pm
The Doctoral Conferral Ceremony is on Thursday, December 11 at 6:00 pm at the Arts Building Recital Hall on the Main Campus.
Conversation Starters With Your Roadrunner

Conversation Starters:
Countdown to the Semester’s End
As the semester winds down, your Roadrunner may feel the pressure of looming deadlines and final exams. Encourage them to take breaks and recharge. Whether it’s joining UTSA’s Unwind Before the Grind activities, spending time outdoors, or practicing mindfulness, let them know that it is okay to step away. Thanksgiving Break is also a great opportunity to reflect on their progress and set goals for the spring semester.
Here are some questions for you to consider AFTER they have recharged.
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Tell me about your upcoming finals, tests or projects?
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What’s been your favorite way to relax or de-stress on campus?
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Which event one of the Unwind Before the Grind events are you planning to attend?
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Have you registered for your spring classes.
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What are your goals while home for Thanksgiving?

Not Yet a Member?
Join the UTSA Family Association Today!
Family Association Membership is free, and members receive:
- Priority notice to register for Family Association events
- Access to members-only student scholarships
- Networking opportunities with Roadrunner families and staff
- Email copy of the Family Association Newsletter