UT San Antonio Public Safety earns MADD awards for community safety initiatives
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) recognized nine UT San Antonio Police officers and staff for their ongoing efforts to prevent impaired driving and underage drinking through proactive education, outreach and community partnerships. The awards were presented in June at the 2026 South and Central Texas Law Enforcement Recognition Awards, which honors law enforcement professionals for their dedication to protecting communities and advancing public safety.
The Community Award
Sgt. Eric Weber and Dubelsa Villarreal received the Community Award, which celebrates outstanding collaboration and dedication to impaired driving prevention. Sgt. Weber and Villarreal were recognized for their excellent work to develop strategic partnerships to further expand Public Safety’s impact across campus. They collaborated with student organizations, residence life and wellness programs to integrate safety messaging into everyday campus life, while coordination with local partners ensures consistent community-wide efforts.
"Over the past year, Sgt. Weber and Dubelsa delivered targeted programming designed to influence decision making among students, faculty and staff," said Lt. Jovany Vega. “Through alcohol awareness campaigns, safety presentations and interactive outreach events, they provided students with the knowledge and tools needed to make responsible choices. These efforts are intentionally designed to engage participants in meaningful ways that promote long-term behavioral change.”
Outstanding Leadership Award
Sgt. Molly Ralph received the Outstanding Leadership Award for her exemplary leadership in impaired-driving enforcement, mentoring officers, supporting advanced DWI training and leading by example through her own enforcement efforts. To ensure she provides the best possible support and experience, she stays current on emerging impaired-driving trends and training opportunities while mentoring officers and strengthening the department's enforcement capabilities.
“What makes Sgt. Ralph exceptional is not only her commitment to impaired driving enforcement, but the positive culture she has created among the officers she leads,” said Capt. Shawn Smith. “She takes a genuine interest in developing her people and is always willing to share her knowledge and experience, whether helping an officer work through a complex investigation or encouraging them to pursue additional training. The impact of her leadership is evident in the officers she mentors and the work they do every day. They are more confident and better equipped to identify and remove impaired drivers from our roadways, helping make the Roadrunner community a safer place for everyone.”
Additional Awards
MADD honored several other Public Safety team members for their excellence in enforcement, service and leadership. The awards reflect the department’s comprehensive approach to community safety, recognizing efforts that range from proactive enforcement and team collaboration to emerging leadership and outstanding service.
- Team Award for Outstanding Service: Cpl. Santiago Valdovinos, OIC Joshua Van Meter, Cpl. Charles Speck, Ofc. Amanda Villegas
- Enforcement Hero: Ofc. Amanda Villegas
- Outstanding Rookie: Ofc. Douglas Ferguson
MADD's recognition underscores Public Safety's commitment to creating a safer campus and community through education, engagement and collaboration. By combining prevention-focused programming with strong partnerships, the department continues to advance MADD's mission of reducing impaired driving and empowering individuals to make responsible choices. Congratulations to all recipients on this well-deserved recognition.
