St. Mary’s begins incorporating artificial intelligence into its faith-filled education
The rise of artificial intelligence brings questions about its impact on humanity and faith. Many professors at St. Mary's University have already begun incorporating AI into their curriculum. Early adopters have even created classes on using it in ethical ways.
Read MoreAlumni
One Fiesta Oyster Bake blossoms into a family full of Business and Physics degrees
The Huerta and Strater families have a legacy of St. Mary’s University degrees and service that they hope will reach the next generation.
Fall into a good book — St. Mary’s style
Whether you’re looking to dive into stories rooted in South Texas, explore space through military theory or revisit childhood adventures in Spanish, there’s a Rattler-penned book for every reader.
Engineering alumna strives to reconcile development and preservation
Joan Bryant (B.S. ’16) loves being outdoors. Growing up, she enjoyed local nature areas, not knowing her future would be preserving them as an engineer with the San Antonio River Authority.
St. Mary’s alumna draws Latinas in PR together for new anthology
Culture meets communication by Jennifer R. Lloyd (M.B.A. ’16) Public relations strategist and author Melissa Vela-Williamson (B.A. ’02) isn’t afraid of the curve balls a career in PR can throw at professionals — either those new to ...
Political Science alumnus inspires change through community impact
Lawrence Scott, Ph.D. (B.A. ’01), found his mission at St. Mary's University to transform generations as a professor and nonprofit leader.
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.
Arts and Humanities
Psychology major finds lifelong mentor and a career at St. Mary’s
Not everyone is lucky enough to have a life-changing mentor. Even fewer have the chance to work next door to their close friend. Gaby Aquino, Ph.D. (B.A. ’19), has both. And it all began in a Psychology classroom at St. Mary’s.
St. Mary’s launches Rattler Records, an on-campus recording studio
The St. Mary’s University Department of Music and Theatre Arts is creating Rattler Records, an on-campus recording studio.
St. Mary’s, Alamo College partnership increases dual credit educators
Erika Melero (B.A. ’01) is one of 90 students from surrounding school districts in San Antonio to take advantage of a $1.1 million partnership between St. Mary’s and the Alamo Colleges District, through which high school teachers obtain certificates to teach dual credit and graduate degrees.
Novel English class explores AI and the digital humanities
Graduate students explore how to use and the ethics of using the emerging tech In science fiction, artificial intelligence is often viewed as a threat to humanity. Look no further than examples of Isaac Asimov’s book I, ...
St. Mary’s History alumnus crafts legacy at the Alamo
Since his first trip to the Alamo lit up his eyes about the historic Texas site, Ernesto Rodriguez III (B.A. ’96, M.A. ’04) finds joy in interpreting history in real-world settings. He and other History alumni share their work with the community and enlighten others by contextualizing the region and its journey.
Twin brothers share love and experience of music with future musicians
Damien and Fabien Chavez look forward to spreading their love and knowledge of music to the next generation after graduating from St. Mary’s University this May.
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.
Athletics and Recreation
MPA graduate blends city service with campus leadership
ShaLi Niu (M.P.A. ’25) found a lifelong love of service at St. Mary’s University — and as an alumna, she’s putting that passion into action both on campus and across San Antonio.
Rattler Golf alumnus reaches PGA Tour with gratitude in mind
After a strenuous summer of golf tournaments on the Korn Ferry Tour, Emilio Gonzalez Ramirez (B.B.A. ’20) walked into September’s Albertsons Boise Open, tired but determined to prove something before the end of the regular season.
Cybersecurity scholar tackles AI challenges for a safer tomorrow
Laurene Robinson is following her "techie" inclinations at St. Mary’s University, earning a bachelor’s in Computer Science and a master’s in Cybersecurity while playing Rattler Volleyball.
Communication Studies major leads with passion on the tennis court and in community
Balancing academics as a Communication Studies major and athletics on the Women's Tennis team has been a challenge, but one Stela Sifuentes tackled with determination.
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.
Business
St. Mary’s double business alumna proves service and success go hand in hand
Kristin Gawlik, a St. Mary's University Greehey School of Business double alumna, shows how one 'yes' can change your life's trajectory.
St. Mary’s MBA student finds leadership through service
Clara Guerrero earns an MBA at St. Mary's University and learns from an international field experience in South Korea with classmates.
St. Mary’s University MBA alumna cooks up creativity and business
Entrepreneur Veronica Ume-Ezeoke (M.B.A. ’17) slides between the culinary worlds of her Korean childhood and her husband’s Nigerian homeland. What began as a love for family recipes grew into an Instagram channel where Korean and Nigerian cuisines collide with marketing savvy and measurable audience engagement.
Online MBA student believes in the transformative power of entrepreneurship
Ben Hodge’s growth as an entrepreneur has roots in his family tree that has branched into his second year as a student in the Online MBA for Professionals program at the St. Mary’s University Greehey School of 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.
Community
Carnegie Classification showcases St. Mary’s University at the nexus of educational access and earnings outcomes
When asked how her college experience helped launch her career at USAA, Maryam Khezri’s eager smile belied a long day spent helping give St. Mary’s University students a vocational lift.
Rattlers mascot celebrates a century at St. Mary’s University
The emblematic snake that charms the hearts of students and alumni became part of the official verbiage for St. Mary’s University Athletics 100 years ago. The reptilian references evolved later into the beloved mascot, Rattler Man.
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.
Faith and Service
Casa Tuesdays make a Marianist house a home for St. Mary’s students
The Marianists living at the Casa María community on the St. Mary’s University campus are a welcoming example of how brothers embrace a tradition of welcoming college students into their midst for food and fellowship.
St. Mary’s University Ministry leads students on a spiritual journey in Big Bend
During Spring Break 2025, undergraduate students, led by St. Mary’s University Ministry, embarked on a journey into the Chihuahua Desert in far West Texas.
As the Marianist sisters celebrate 75 years, Sister Grace Walle and others champion service and tradition
by Michelle Mondo and Jennifer R. Lloyd (M.B.A. ’16) For then-teenage Grace Walle, what started as a fun, and ultimately failing, attempt to play pipe organ with her best friend Laura Leming at the Marianist Family Retreat ...
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.
Law
Family support propels J.D. student to fulfill childhood dream
Daeja Hall, who will accept her Doctor of Jurisprudence from St. Mary's Law at the Spring 2025 Law Commencement, was propelled by her family to fulfill her childhood dream.
St. Mary’s alumni volunteer time to benefit the University
Jim Drought (J.D. ’69) always wanted to be an attorney. Sara E. Dysart (B.A. ’74, J.D. ’81) loves giving back to St. Mary's University. When asked to assist with a gift given by an alumni, the two friends didn't hesitate to offer their legal services.
St. Mary’s Law study shows benefits of Catholic legal education
New study reveals how Catholic-affiliated law education impacts the lives of graduates beyond their time on campus.
Master’s degree alumnus delves deeper into business law
Jason Stover (M.Jur. '23) decided to earn his degree at St. Mary's Law so he would be more informed about the laws that govern his areas of expertise.
J.D. alumnus embraces assisting physicians and military members
Veteran represents service members before an Administrative Separation Board or professional licensees before state boards.
After life-altering crash, J.D. student commits to inspiring others
Lauren Cortez, a third-year J.D. student, didn't allow a car wreck to derail her dreams of earning her law degree.
Canadian musician’s unconventional path leads her to St. Mary’s Law
A Canadian attorney and award-winning musician enjoys a legal career in Texas after earning Master of Laws at St. Mary's School of Law.
School of Law navigates AI’s challenges and opportunities
The St. Mary’s University School of Law is preparing faculty and students to use artificial intelligence effectively and responsibly.
Criminal and territorial law scholar to release new book and teach course
Assistant Professor of Law Sígrid Vendrell-Polanco, J.D., grew up in Puerto Rico and enjoys teaching future lawyers about the U.S. territories.
$1.2 million gift from Methodist Healthcare Ministries supports St. Mary’s Law clinics
Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. is fighting housing insecurity by powering the St. Mary's Law Real Estate Clinic and Consumer Protection Clinic.
Passion for service leads St. Mary’s law alumnus to priesthood
While earning his J.D. at St. Mary's Law, William Hayes, S.J. (J.D. '22), found himself on the path to priesthood.
Graduate of first-in-the-nation master’s degree focuses on special education law
Patricia Howey is the first to earn a Master of Jurisprudence with a concentration in Special Education Advocacy at St. Mary's Law.
Science and Tech
St. Mary’s begins incorporating artificial intelligence into its faith-filled education
The rise of artificial intelligence brings questions about its impact on humanity and faith. Many professors at St. Mary's University have already begun incorporating AI into their curriculum. Early adopters have even created classes on using and viewing it in ethical ways.
Engineering and Softball alumna turned medical student credits St. Mary’s for graduate school preparation
Softball player. Biomedical engineer. Medical student. Dermatology residency candidate. For Alexandra McLennan, her list of titles is ongoing, but one that remains close to her heart is St. Mary’s University alumna.
St. Mary’s University welcomes its first student to the Nursing Program
If the scrubs fit, wear them. Paige Severson is the first student to officially enter St. Mary’s University’s new Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program.
St. Mary’s Mechanical Engineering professor fires up classes
If you can’t stand the heat, don’t get out of the kitchen; talk to Morgan Bruns. He may play cool about his career, but his résumé, as members of Gen Z would say, is fire.
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.
