UTSA President honored by the Association of College Unions International for student engagement

UTSA President Ricardo Romo

(March 22, 2016) -- Ricardo Romo, president of UTSA, has been named 2016 President of the Year by the Association of College Unions International (ACUI) during its annual conference in New Orleans. Romo received the award for his leadership in promoting student engagement and diversity on UTSA’s campuses.

ACUI, an international organization, honors just one university president each year.

Zack Dunn ’15, who served as UTSA’s Student Government Association President in 2013-2014 and 2014-2015, nominated Romo for the honor. Sam Gonzales, UTSA vice president for student affairs, and Herbert Ganey, director of the UTSA University Center, supported the nomination.

In his nomination, Dunn noted that Romo “genuinely cares about the students and shows it through his engagement with students, devoting countless hours to bringing together a diverse UTSA community.”

Romo became UTSA’s fifth president in 1999. Under his leadership, the Texas Legislature named UTSA an emerging Tier One research university and a leader in providing access to excellence in teaching, research and community outreach.

Under his leadership, UTSA’s student body has grown to nearly 29,000. It has received world recognition as a university of excellence, and is home to the nation’s leading cybersecurity education and research programs.

“There is nothing more important to Dr. Romo than ensuring that our students have a world-class education and a thriving, diverse campus that helps to prepare them as global citizens,” said Gonzales. “His message to students in clear: always strive for excellence and dare to dream big.”

“As an institution of excellence, we are committed to providing a transformational experience for our students,” said Romo. “We want every part of their college experience to be enriching – in the classroom in our labs, and in every aspect of student life.

The ACUI recognizes university presidents based on their involvement, promotion and support for student activities. Founded in 1914, its members include administrators, professional staff, student employees, student organization leaders, and graduate students.

Romo received his award on March 22 at the ACUI annual conference in New Orleans.

By Courtney Clevenger
Assistant Director of University Communications

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