From left to right are Ricardo Romo, Martha Fasci, Edith McAllister, Lynda de la Vina
and Richard Howe at the Howe award ceremony.

Associate Dean Martha Fasci receives Howe Award

(Dec. 22, 2004)-- Martha Fasci, College of Business associate dean for downtown operations, received this year's Richard S. Howe Award for Excellence in Service to Undergraduate Students. UTSA President Ricardo Romo presented the award to Fasci Dec. 1. The award recognizes UTSA faculty and staff who have advanced the undergraduate mission of the university.

"Martha Fasci gets people excited about business," said Romo. "She has visited over 15,000 inner-city students and has a remarkable track record. We are proud to have her here at UTSA."

College of Business Interim Dean Lynda de la Vina and Senior Associate Dean Dan Hollas nominated Fasci for the award because of her work with the college's Business Scholars Program, a mentoring program for students pursuing careers in business. Established by the College of Business in 2002, the program helps students in the transition from high school to college and on to graduation.

Currently, 60 students are enrolled in the program. Students receive personalized mentoring, explore career opportunities, discuss academic progress and receive assistance in securing scholarships and internship opportunities. They also participate in monthly meetings and attend cultural enrichment activities.

"I'm honored to receive this award for something that I love to do and enjoy," said Fasci. "My parents taught me several principles that have contributed to my success. My mother told me to always do the right thing, to serve others and to honor your roots. My father encouraged me to reach high, to pioneer and to innovate."

Mrs. Walter W. McAllister Jr. established the Howe award four years ago with a gift to the university.The award is named in honor of retired engineering professor Richard S. Howe.

--Wendy Frost