January 2014, Issue 1
Happy New Year
Sam Gonzales
We are all glad to have the students back for the spring semester. The campus is alive with their energy, the fountain is flowing again, and we are more ready than ever to help our students succeed.
This is the time of the year that many of us are talking about resolutions. It’s a great way to capitalize on the natural feeling of new energy that comes with the New Year. For me, I prefer to set an agenda for the year. I take the time to talk with others, forecast goals and projects, and find ways to be proactive about what might come our way. My approach is very strategic. How would you describe yours?
I am also grateful for your continued and unwavering support. I was honored to be named your Vice President for Student Affairs. It is my privilege to lead this great division in the years to come. I believe in our contribution to UTSA. I believe in the work you do.
This semester also marks the beginning of our REACH curriculum. Have you chosen which class you are attending yet? More information is available here.
I am excited about this new opportunity for us to learn together. The REACH curriculum focuses on knowledge about our divisional learning goals. These goals are what students should gain from our programs and services. It is about our role as educators. It’s about student success and our connection to and collaboration with each other. Never underestimate the power of shared understanding. Take the chance to meet someone new in your REACH session or learn about an area of Student Affairs that you have not encountered before.
Everyone here has to be an ambassador - for recruitment and student success. Our success is wrapped up in our ability to work together. We need to be on the same page with where UTSA is headed. We need to form partnerships and explore new ways to contribute to recruitment and student success. We have a lot of work ahead of us. Together we can reach new heights.
Best wishes,
Sam
We Are UTSA! We Are Student Affairs!