utsa uncovered: traditions
University Life Awards Banquet
university life awards banquet
The University Life Awards Banquet is UTSA’s oldest tradition. The annual awards have served as the Oscars for student leaders at the University since 1976. Awards recognize outstanding students, student organizations, staff and faculty.
The number of awards handed out has grown from less than 10 at the first banquet to more than 20 at the 1995 celebration. New award categories include nominations for intramural athletes, outstanding service projects and most spirited student.
Two special awards have been added to the program. The Findling Award, named for Jane Findling, the first director of student activities, honors students who have made significant contributions to the campus community in the academic year. The Golden Feather recognizes students who have been outstanding leaders at UTSA.
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bestfest and fiesta utsa
Our two festivals, BestFest and Fiesta UTSA, were started by Student Government in the early 1980s and continue under the organization of the Campus Activities Board (CAB). Both feature dozens of booths set up under the Sombrilla in a carnival atmosphere. The booths are run by Registered Student Organizations and feature food, drinks and games. CAB sponsors bands and other musicians throughout the day.
BestFest, in October, is UTSA’s answer to Wurstfest. It incorporates a Halloween theme with costume and booth-decorating contests. Fiesta UTSA is the kickoff event for Fiesta San Antonio each spring. The Fiesta royalty are present at the ribbon-cutting ceremony that marks the official beginning of Fiesta.
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homecoming
Homecoming Week, celebrated for the first time in 1985, features many spirit-filled events. Students and alumni share in the excitement of supporting the Roadrunners. Highlights of Homecoming Week include CAB’s Homecoming Dance, the golfcart parade sponsored by Student Government, a bonfire built by the Interfraternity Council and the selection of the Homecoming court, Mr. And Ms. UTSA, organized by the Alumni Association. The first Mr. and Ms. UTSA were Wayne Terry and Patricia DeBerry.
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howdy rowdy bash
The Howdy Rowdy Bash, an annual welcome-to-school kind of party for entering freshmen, started back in 1995 when close to 1000 students gathered in the Laurel Room in the University Center.
At the beginning of the fall semester, all students return to school to begin a new academic year. To signify the end of the summer and a return to serious studies, a bash is thrown in the students’ honor. There’s time for one last hurrah before lectures and tests begin anew.
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greek week
Started in the early 1980’s, Greek Week is a week-long celebration of the Greek community at UTSA. Fraternities and Sororities compete in friendly competitions to figure out who’s best and to have a little fun in the springtime. Events include window decorating competitions, athletic competitions and a lip sync competition.
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roadrunner camp
Roadrunner Camp is a three-day retreat for entering freshmen. Started in 1993, Roadrunner Camp is designed to give new freshmen an opportunity to socialize and learn about different leadership topics before the fall semester begins. At camp, students learn more about UTSA and socialize with other entering freshmen.