Holistic Health
The Blank Sheppard Innovation Center is a physical representation of the many new programs and efforts across our campus that will meet the health needs of our community — through both care and vocation. In this issue, you will meet faculty and staff members, alumni and students who are part of St. Mary’s holistic approach to educating in health-related disciplines.
Read MoreAlumni
St. Mary’s alumni lead State Bar of Texas
Leadership and service are woven into the fabric of St. Mary’s University, so it’s no surprise two alumni have helmed the State Bar of Texas.
St. Mary’s alumnus, now Marianist brother, finds spirit on campus
As an undergraduate at St. Mary’s University pursuing a degree in Marketing, Brother Chicago Schuller had his career planned out. But a class discussion made him rethink his priorities.
St. Mary’s celebrates 40 Years of Gold & Blue magazine
Gold & Blue magazine is celebrating 40 years. Our alumni, faculty, staff, students and Marianists have shared their journeys across these pages. They have deepened our sense of community by giving us a glimpse into their lives through stories and photographs.
St. Mary’s authors offer up summer reading options
Alumni and faculty from St. Mary's University offer up new reading materials, helping you find a cool way to stay out of the summer heat this year.
Couple who met in Biology class celebrate 10 years together
Marina Salgado (B.A. ’17) and her husband, Mario Salgado (B.A. ’17), didn’t expect to find chemistry in a Biology class. But in Fall 2013, the couple, in the first semester of their first year of college, met in Biology 1301 at St. Mary’s University.
Mengler’s steadfast work helps The Defining Moment Comprehensive Campaign reach new heights
The success of St. Mary’s University’s largest campaign didn’t happen without President Thomas M. Mengler, J.D., logging thousands of miles, shaking hundreds of hands and emphatically sharing a vision about the future of its campus and schools.
St. Mary’s authors offer diverse collection of fall reads
Poetry, public relations, knitting and novels about crime and culture — these recently published books from St. Mary’s University alumni cover a wide variety of fascinating topics.
Military veteran MBA alumna becomes knitting author
Ashleigh Wempe started knitting and pattern designing to pass the time while transitioning from the U.S. Air Force to the St. Mary's University MBA program.
Giving Day 2023 fuels Rattler success
Jaclyn Quilantan, Ph.D. (B.S. ’12), said St. Mary’s University was good to her when she was attending school for her undergraduate degree. Now, she is working to give someone else that same chance. Quilantan is one of many alumni who donate during the annual St. Mary’s University Giving Day.
Keep your mind active with our summer read picks
These books, written by St. Mary’s University students, faculty and alumni, take readers on an educational journey, ranging in topics from philosophy to neurology.
Alumni entrepreneurs discover career and companionship at St. Mary’s
Despite both being students in the Greehey School of Business, Aaron Thomas and Nisi Heredia (B.B.A. ’11), now Nisi Thomas, didn’t cross paths until they met at a student gathering.
St. Mary’s alumni find benefits through post-graduation guide
From social media to local chapters, from campus events to fun perks, St. Mary's University alumni can find many paths to stay connected to their alma mater through the guide below.
Arts and Humanities
Transfer student finds invaluable resources, shared community at St. Mary’s University
A’marie Pollard found a more diverse Political Science program at St. Mary’s and a community that supports its students through challenges.
Diplomat reflects on career journey from St. Mary’s to India
While working as the spokesperson for the U.S. Consulate General in Mumbai, India, Greg Pardo (B.A. ’05) reflects on the journey that brought him from St. Mary’s University to serving his country as a diplomat in Asia.
St. Mary’s alumnus uses military position to mentor others
Joseph Puntoriero sat in a military base in Lebanon with shaky Wi-Fi just hoping it would hold long enough to submit his final assignment. Ultimately, the International Relations degree aided his journey to become a military mentor to future leaders.
St. Mary’s History student researches one of San Antonio’s first desegregated clubs
History major Jadyn Evans shared with the San Antonio community her research into the Keyhole Club, one of the area's first desegregated nightclubs.
St. Mary’s undergraduates embrace mock trial team
During his internship at the Bexar County Courthouse, Eduardo Saucedo Moreno struck up a conversation with a local attorney about the lack of a mock trial team for undergraduate students at St. Mary’s University. The interaction sparked an interest that helped him establish a program at St. Mary's University.
Forensic Science transfer student finds path to community impact
As a St. Mary’s University junior transfer student majoring in Forensic Science (Criminology Option), Anna Marie Wojnar believes working as a crime scene investigator or in forensics can impact others.
Wall Street Journal recognizes Economics professor for accurate 2023 predictions
She may not have a crystal ball, but Economics Associate Professor Belinda Román was recognized by the Wall Street Journal for giving a most accurate 2023 U.S. economic forecast.
St. Mary’s Spanish professor wins major Peruvian literary award
Christian Elguera Olórtegui, a novelist who teaches Spanish at St. Mary’s University, has won a top literary prize in his home country of Peru, the Copé Award.
Big grants and revamped career services enhance the student experience
Through grants and a realigned career services office, the University’s faculty and staff continuously look to improve the college experience, give hands-on learning opportunities and pinpoint a vocation that aligns with students’ passions.
Brothers excel with Marianist education at St. Mary’s
Brothers Kai and Aidan Solonka chose St. Mary’s University to continue the Marianist education they first encountered at Central Catholic.
St. Mary’s professors to lead panel at weekend anime convention
Benjamin “Josh” Doty, Ph.D., said he has been an anime fan since he first stumbled upon an episode of Dragon Ball as a child. Now, he and Associate Professor of Philosophy Eric Chelstrom, Ph.D., will have the opporutnity to share their passion for anime.
MPA student helps communities from Brownsville to White House
Emmanuel Sanchez believes in the power of civil servants to improve their communities. The combined-degree Political Science and Public Administration student has seen the impacts first-hand during internships from Brownsville to the White House
Athletics and Recreation
St. Mary’s Athletics opens new nutrition station for student-athletes
The St. Mary’s University Department of Athletics unveiled its new nutrition center — called Rattler Refuel — during Fall 2024.
St. Mary’s University athletes vie for Winter Games glory
Although they had never met, Winter Vinecki and Collin Storms (B.A. '22) paths tie them from not-so-snowy St. Mary’s University to the same Olympic training facilities in Lake Placid, New York.
Rattler Baseball team member takes computer science talents to the major league
Combining his computer science studies at St. Mary’s University with his passion for baseball, Cayden Garcia made a splash with the Appalachian League, one of the longest-running baseball leagues in the history of professional baseball.
St. Mary’s soccer standout dreams big on and off the field
Many children dream of becoming a professional soccer player, a lawyer or an international businessperson. For international student Daniel “Dani” Gimena, these aspirations aren’t just fantasies.
Basketball alumna makes Harlem Globetrotters’ roster
With a personality matching her ability on the court, Arysia Porter (B.A. ’19) has taken her talents from studying Criminology and playing Rattler Women’s Basketball around the world with the Harlem Globetrotters.
STUNT program hurdles its way into Rattler Athletics varsity sports portfolio
Toe touches, back tucks and high-air basket tosses signaled the very first practice this summer by recruits to St. Mary’s University’s newest varsity sport — STUNT.
Rattler Athletics uses new technology to improve performance
St. Mary’s University student-athletes — especially in Soccer, Golf and Volleyball — are accessing the latest technology to improve their game, which was made possible partly by donations to Rattler Athletics.
Women’s Basketball player brings her talents to school and courts
As a five-sport student-athlete in high school in Fredericksburg, Hannah Wilson (B.A. ’21) learned to balance school, sports, a social life and more.
Golf alum journeys from St. Mary’s to the airwaves
Before Peter Burns (B.A. '02) ascended to among the most prominent personalities in college sports, he was searching for direction and guidance in the classrooms of St. Mary's University.
St. Mary’s soccer coach discovers passion for public history
While attending the Master of Arts in Public History program at St. Mary’s University, Assistant Women’s Soccer Coach Adam Nerio (M.A. ’20) started his days on the field at 5 a.m. for team training.
Pivoting with excellence: Men’s Soccer captain continues studies from Brazil
Deni Cresto, a junior from Curitiba, Brazil, studying Exercise and Sport Science, often refers to a message from St. Mary’s University Men’s Soccer Head Coach Johnny Clifford: “Control what you can control.”
Rattler Baseball player graduates to research scientist
Like young baseball fans around the world, Jeff Wigdahl dreamed of making the big league — Major League Baseball.
Business
Alumnus creates venture capital firm focused on the Southwestern U.S. and Mexico
Overcoming barriers. Closing deals. Rowing oceans. Whatever phrase you want to use for persisting through all manner of strenuous challenges, Andy Vargas-Hernandez (B.B.A. ’14) has done just that, though his favorite wording might be removing borders.
St. Mary’s alumna turns sustainable fashion dreams into a reality
Management alumna Amanda Alarcon-Hunter, who launched a fashion store, will speak at St. Mary's during 2024 Business Week.
Greehey School of Business connects students through mentorship
The Greehey School of Business Mentorship Program, open to all business students, is a voluntary program that allows students to seek additional support.
MBA, Industrial Engineering alumna mentors aspiring students
Local alumna Valeria Garza graduated from the Industrial Engineering bachelor's program to earn an MBA with online coursework while working as a software engineer at USAA.
Fall graduate follows family tradition by becoming St. Mary’s alumna
As a self-described “sometimes procrastinator,” Isabella Tamez knew the small class sizes at St. Mary's would hold her accountable to herself and her classmates.
St. Mary’s students gain access to business attire
The Rattler Wardrobe at the Greehey School of Business loans clothing to business students who need attire for professional events.
St. Louis alum discovers vocation at St. Mary’s
Andrew Tague (B.B.A. ’23) decided to take a chance on Texas and St. Mary's University to continue exploring a Marianist education.
Business and Law undergraduate sees big potential in new major
Layla Dickerson went from being an elementary student who had to sit in the hallway because she kept acting out to a rising sophomore at St. Mary’s University who helped advocate for the new B.B.A. in Business and Law.
U.S. Army Reserves major earns MBA while serving in Germany in support of Ukraine
Raul Rodriguez, a major in the U.S. Army Reserve, was a year into his Master of Business Administration program at St. Mary’s University in Summer 2022 when he received orders to relocate to Germany to help support Ukrainian efforts.
Leading Ladies: Rowena Ortiz-Walters looks to foster growth in business students
Since joining St. Mary’s University as Dean in 2021, Rowena Ortiz-Walters, Ph.D., said her mission is to find ways to be inclusive by fostering a program that welcomes students from all backgrounds.
Texas Facilities Commission director oversees massive construction at the Capitol
Overseeing $1.5 billion in facilities projects across the state falls to Executive Director of the Texas Facilities Commission Mike Novak (B.B.A. ’75).
Finance and Risk Management senior dives into service
Zane Smith fell in love with St. Mary’s University the first time he set foot on campus for his college tour. Now, he makes an impact as a tour guide, President's Ambassador and scholar.
Community
Rattler Den Food and Hygiene Pantry open to students
Launched in Fall 2023, the Rattler Den is a full pantry located in the Center for Life Directions, and free to all St. Mary's students.
Winston Erevelles shares his journey to the St. Mary’s presidency and outlook on the next chapter
Winston Erevelles, Ph.D., has been a fixture of the University’s School of Science, Engineering and Technology as its long-time Dean and Professor of Industrial Engineering. On June 1, he became St. Mary's University's 14th president.
Honoring our legacy, shaping our future
This summer, St. Mary’s University will celebrate its 172nd anniversary. It is deeply moving and inspiring to reflect on the hopes and aspirations the Marianist brothers must have had as they helped boldly lay the first stones of St. Louis Hall in the late 1800s.
Chris Erevelles highlights her trusting partnership with husband Winston Erevelles
Since a faith-inspired 2001 meeting in Pittsburgh placed Christine “Chris” Erevelles, M.D., in touch with her future husband, Winston Erevelles, Ph.D., their trusting partnership has grown along with their dedication to St. Mary’s. Learn more about her in this Q&A.
Peruvian student helps fellow international students
When she was a high schooler in Lima, Peru, Brissa Campos Toscano never imagined she would one day attend college in the United States. After arriving at St. Mary’s University in 2021, she made it her mission to help other international students.
Retiring President Thomas M. Mengler leaves lasting mark
Over the course of 12 years, Thomas Mengler — the second most famous face of St. Mary's behind Rattler Man — shared his vision of expanding the University’s Catholic and Marianist traditions.
Board Chair reflects on President Tom Mengler’s tenure
Nearly a dozen years of visionary leadership and unwavering dedication have reshaped St. Mary’s University under the guidance of President Thomas M. Mengler, J.D.
St. Mary’s community speaks about Tom and Mona Mengler’s tenure
As Thomas M. Mengler, J.D., prepares to retire as the 13th president of St. Mary’s University, those who worked closest with him and his wife share their thoughts on the couple.
St. Mary’s students share their favorite Thanksgiving traditions
As thoughts of turkey and gravy dance in people’s heads, we asked a few St. Mary’s University students about their favorite holiday traditions.
St. Mary’s employee reflects on Jovita Idár’s new quarter
St. Mary’s employee Rose Ann Martinez celebrates her great-great-aunt, Jovita Idár, a Mexican American journalist and activist, being recognized on a U.S. quarter.
Leading Ladies: Five women at the top of their fields help steward academic excellence at St. Mary’s
Since the University’s origins as an all-male school 170 years ago, women will hold all four dean’s roles as well as the role of vice provost for academic affairs for the first time.
Leading Ladies: Carolyn Tubbs relies on open communication as Vice Provost
Working with people of diverse backgrounds on topics requiring intense listening and understanding is something Carolyn Tubbs, Ph.D., has been doing most of her career.
Faith and Service
Study highlights benefits of Catholic higher education
Wanting to show how religious-affiliated universities, like St. Mary’s, offer more than just an education, Jason King, Ph.D., partnered with market research group YouGov to see how graduates of Catholic institutions fare against their secular school counterparts.
Vice President for Mission to host show on Catholic TV
The fact that the Rev. John Thompson, S.M., Ed.D., isn’t on television already may be a surprise. The Vice President for Mission certainly has the personality for it. There’s always a smile on his face, a witty response ready to go and charisma to fill multiple rooms.
Sister shares her calling to Theology
As a teenager, Sister LaReine-Marie Mosley, Ph.D., had already decided to venture into a life of religious practice. Celebrating 40 years since joining the Sisters of Notre Dame, Gold & Blue magazine sat down to get to know Mosley.
St. Mary’s employee’s connection to the Marianist mission spans generations
Linda Muller (B.A. ’86, B.B.A. ’86, M.A. ’03), Director of Enterprise Systems and Services, never planned to attend St. Mary’s University. But three degrees, a wedding, eight children and a 30-year career later, Muller is happy with God’s plans for her.
The Rev. Brandon Paluch revels in role at St. Mary’s University
Before he began to consider becoming a Marianist, the Rev. Brandon Paluch, S.M., learned the foundations of ministry on the golf course.
Outgoing president’s faith touted as benefit to University
Since being selected as the University’s 13th president, Thomas Mengler’s goal has been to make St. Mary’s not just a top-notch Catholic institution in the Southwest, but a premier university where people can “revitalize and expand” what makes exceptional Catholics and servant leaders.
Integrating Catholic Intellectual Tradition helps students become critical thinkers
Focusing on educating students to think beyond themselves, the core curriculum is instrumental to giving them a liberal arts education integrated with Catholic and Marianist values.
Presidential duo creates 12 memorable years at St. Mary’s helm
Since 2012, Tom and Mona Mengler have embraced St. Mary's University, the Marianist charism and San Antonio. The couple shares their thoughts on what the University's community has meant to them.
Alumna receives U.S. Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022
From helping her community in her native Ghana by starting her first corporation at the age of 11, to years later receiving the U.S. Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, Brenya Twumasi, J.D. (M.A. ’98), has lived to serve.
SM Friends Program at St. Mary’s encourages partnership
Arely Reyes, a member of the Marianist Leadership Program, met Brother Dan Stupka through the SM Friends Program, which enables students to pair with a Marianist brother as part of their community service requirement.
Theology alumna recognized globally for humanitarian work at the border
Before Sister Norma Pimentel (M.A. ’89) became executive director of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley, was named among TIME’s Most Influential People or was recognized by Pope Francis for her work with refugees at the U.S.-Mexico Border, she dreamed of being an artist.
St. Mary’s University puts its all into a seven-year climate effort
On Earth Day 2022, St. Mary’s University faculty, staff and students were learning about the seven-year commitment to “care for our common home."
Law
Non-traditional J.D. student to receive law degree at December commencement
Although her dream of attending law school was delayed, Lyda Creus Molanphy is earning her J.D. to better serve her clients after working for Gov. Ann Richards and with the Great Springs Project.
New St. Mary’s Law professor finds her passion in teaching
After stints working in Big Law and having her own practice, Melissa Shultz, J.D., St. Mary’s University Assistant Dean for Legal Writing and Professor of Law, found her true calling in the classroom.
Recent J.D. graduate accepts prestigious federal clerkship
Berenis Ibarra López (J.D. ’24) accepted a 2026-2027 clerkship with the Hon. Irma Carrillo Ramirez, J.D., of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. López is currently a law clerk for the Hon.
Legal vocations: St. Mary’s Law elevates career paths to new heights
The St. Mary's University School of Law offers J.D. and LL.M. students highly individualized support so they can find fulfilling vocations.
Legal vocations: Alumnus thrives in international trade compliance
Robert Dunlap (B.A. ’06, M.A. ’11, J.D. ’11) is a St. Mary's Law and International Relations alumnus who is thriving in an international trade compliance career.
Legal vocations: Alumna finds perfect fit in Big Law in Fort Worth
Gracie Garcia, who received her J.D. in 2017, has earned success as a versatile trial attorney with an array of clients at Jackson Walker.
Legal vocations: Former prosecutor fulfills dream as judge
The Hon. Lori Valenzuela (J.D. '98) fulfills her childhood dream of becoming a judge after a career as a prosecutor.
Legal vocations: Diverse legal background prepares alum for Landry’s in-house role
Stephen Hebert enjoys his role as corporate counsel with a nationwide litigation docket for Landry’s Inc. locations.
Law Professor Michael Smith shares unique study of originalism
An unusually named law review article on originalism by Michael Smith, J.D., a St. Mary’s University School of Law faculty member, has raised some academic eyebrows, drawing interest from law scholars, media members and social media followers across the country.
Canary Island roots fuel alumnus’ passion for San Antonio
Steve Chiscano (J.D. ’97) may know more about San Antonio’s history and its ties to Spain than anyone else. His love for the city runs deep: he served as president of the San Antonio Bar Association and as chairman of the board of the Historical Centre Foundation, formed to preserve San Fernando Cathedral in downtown San Antonio.
M.Jur. alumna uses platform to advocate for female veterans’ health
First class competitor by Michelle Mondo Krendra Harralson (M.Jur. ’24) thought she would still be climbing the ranks in the U.S. Army, but an unexpected medical diagnosis sent her on a different path: earning a pageant competition ...
School of Law helps build on alumna’s service-minded efforts
Firm support by Suzi Morales, J.D. Serving others is central to who Anietie Akpan (J.D. ’13) is. You can see it in her work, how she talks about her family and why she chose the St. Mary’s ...
Science and Tech
Biology major looks at healing in holistic way
Nadia Abdulbaki has always been fascinated with the medical field and helping others since childhood. That's why the Biology major and member of the St. Mary's University Honors Program hopes to go into the medical field after graduation.
New labs and programs offer a wellspring for innovation in St. Mary’s health care education
The new Nursing Program at St. Mary's University, along with other new and revamped degrees in Public Health, Medical Humanities, and Exercise and Sport Science, further the University's mission of teaching holistic health.
St. Mary’s student from India adds math to her career
A Mathematics major with a minor in Computer Science at St. Mary’s University, Dhwani Chandi is passionate about Applied Mathematics.
Construction Management offers strong support
Coming to St. Mary’s University, Eduardo “Ed” Lopez (B.S. ’22, M.S. ’23) wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps in construction. During his studies, he took courses learning about the management side of construction management, an area of study he had not previously considered.
St. Mary’s student studies native plant species for more sustainable landscape
Growing up in Lima, Peru, Jose Cornejo became environmentally conscious after studying at a Marianist high school that valued God’s creations. He would take those values to heart and decided to do something about to benefit the planet.
Founding Director of Nursing shares path toward the St. Mary’s Nursing Program
Gold & Blue magazine sat down with Donna M. Badowski, DNP, Vice Dean of the School of Science, Engineering and Technology, and Founding Director of Nursing, to learn more about her background and get the inside scoop on the planned Nursing Program.
Pediatric nurse finds calling at St. Mary’s University
Enrique Salinas, a first-generation student originally from Eagle Pass, earned his Bachelor of Arts in Biology from St. Mary’s in 2019. After participating in undergraduate research opportunities and shadowing a medical doctor, a single day spent shadowing a nurse made all the difference in his career decision.
St. Mary’s Software Engineering graduate student improves systems
St. Mary's University alumnus and master's student Ian Wells is fascinated by software engineering because it can improve processes and make lives easier.
Leading Ladies: Teresa Beam gets ready to start new dean’s role
Growing up in Columbia City, Indiana, Teresa “Teri” Beam, Ph.D., was an inquisitive child. Beam found herself fascinated with the sciences, specifically the subject of genetics.
Trailblazing couple immortalized with new campus building
Despite bestowing generous gifts, the couple, Leland T. Blank Ph.D. (B.S. ’67) and Sallie V. Sheppard, Ph.D., said teaching has always been their reward. So, when they learned their names would be immortalized on the Blank Sheppard Innovation Center now under construction, both said they were “beyond surprised.”
Alum at Department of Energy positions U.S. for its future
Zack Valdez, Ph.D. (B.S. ’10), finds motivational fuel in explaining complex science and increasing public trust in scientific findings by everyone from community members who need to understand their environment to Congressional decision-makers.
Environmental Science and English major studies coyote-red wolf link
Originally from Mexico, Bianca Ramos joined the St. Mary’s community, eager to explore her passion for sharing the wonders of the natural world with others.
