President Flawn signs the diploma for the first graduating student against Rep. Frank Lombardino's back, reenacting the historic event when Gov. Preston Smith signed the legislation creating UTSA on Lombardino's back.
Editor’s note: This article was originally published in UTSA newsletter The Discourse in Sept. 1974.
(May 17, 2019) -- The day was perfect. It was sunny and warm with the pleasant diversion of a late summer breeze. At 3 p.m. the processional began, and UTSA faculty members and graduates in traditional academic regalia walked across the courtyard to The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio auditorium.
The occasion was a historic one. On August 18 UTSA awarded degrees to 82 students—the university’s first graduates.
Bevington Reed, commissioner of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, Texas College and University System, delivered the commencement address. Speaking of accomplishments since the university opened its doors in June 1973, he called UTSA “an island of light,” a place of happiness and challenge, and he compared it to the free University of West Berlin, which shines from within East German borders.
>> Read the rest of this story and relive other memories from UTSA’s history as we celebrate UTSA’s 50th Anniversary.
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Move In To COLFA is strongly recommended for new students in COLFA. It gives you the chance to learn about the Student Success Center, campus resources and meet new friends!
Academic Classroom: Lecture Hall (MH 2.01.10,) McKinney Humanities BldgWe invite you to join us for Birds Up! Downtown, an exciting welcome back event designed to connect students with the different departments at the Downtown Campus. Students will have the opportunity to learn about some of the departments on campus, gain access to different resources, and collect some giveaways!
Bill Miller PlazaJoin us for an intimate evening of cocktails, conversation, and culinary inspiration with Pati Jinich, Emmy-nominated chef and James Beard Award-winning author. Enjoy light bites and signature drinks in the warm, modern setting of Mezquite as Pati connects with guests over her passion for Mexican cuisine and storytelling.
Mezquite Restaurant in Pullman Market, 221 Newell Ave., San Antonio 78215From inspired courses to thoughtful pairings and a rich sense of community, the Ven a Comer Signature Dinner is a night of shared meals, shared stories, and unforgettable flavor.
Stable Hall (Pear Brewery), 307 Pearl Pkwy, San Antonio 78215Come and celebrate this year's homecoming at the Downtown Campus with food, games, giveaways, music, and more. We look forward to seeing your Roadrunner Spirit!
Bill Miller PlazaThe University of Texas at San Antonio is dedicated to the advancement of knowledge through research and discovery, teaching and learning, community engagement and public service. As an institution of access and excellence, UTSA embraces multicultural traditions and serves as a center for intellectual and creative resources as well as a catalyst for socioeconomic development and the commercialization of intellectual property - for Texas, the nation and the world.
To be a premier public research university, providing access to educational excellence and preparing citizen leaders for the global environment.
We encourage an environment of dialogue and discovery, where integrity, excellence, respect, collaboration and innovation are fostered.
