2024 State of the University
President Taylor Eighmy delivered his second State of the University address, during which he highlighted the university’s recent accomplishments, shared his vision for the coming year and moderated a panel discussion of faculty, staff and students to expand on the university’s opportunities for continued growth, innovation and discovery.
Eighmy’s presentation included his vision for the university and plans to develop, expand and enhance key initiatives to support that vision, including:
· Research Excellence — Data Science and AI
· Downtown Development and Campusness — San Pedro I, San Pedro II and downtown partnerships
· Classroom to Career — Undergraduate research, work-study programs, Career Center
· Student Success — Mentorship and building connections
· Campus Experience and Wellness — Dorm expansions and mental healthcare offerings
· Be Bold Campaign — Programing and facility expansions
· Athletics — American Athletic Conference
Afterward, UTSA faculty, staff and student representatives joined Eighmy in a lively panel discussion to share insights on their personal journeys at UTSA and how each team, unit and division is collectively working to advance the university’s recently refreshed strategic goals.
Panelists included:
· Dhireesha Kudithipudi, McDermott Endowed Chair in Engineering, professor of computer Science and founding director of MATRIX: The UTSA AI Consortium for Human Well-Being
· Jennilee Garza, senior director of Strategic Communications, UTSA Advancement and Alumni Engagement
· Joshua Gerken, senior assistant vice president, Asset Management
· Erica Clark, director of Student Innovation
· Melissa Hernandez, associate dean of students, Wellbeing Services
· Karen Aston, head coach, Women’s Basketball
· Anna Almaraz, UTSA Alumnus, M.B.A Candidate, Entrepreneur
All university faculty and staff were invited to attend the event both in person at Buena Vista Theater at UTSA’s Downtown Campus or online via livestream.
