Author: OLLUNewsletter

OLLU Students Explore Hindu Tradition During San Antonio Temple Visit

Students in OLLU’s Theology and Spiritual Action program recently visited the Hindu Temple of San Antonio, gaining a firsthand opportunity to learn about Hindu beliefs, practices and sacred traditions.

Murthy Patamalla, chairman of the Hindu Temple of San Antonio, speaking to OLLU students and visitors.

Hosted by Murthy Patamalla, chairman of the Hindu Temple of San Antonio, the visit introduced students to key aspects of Hinduism and the role of the temple in the life of its community. Patamalla explained elements of the temple’s sacred spaces and images, shared insight into Hindu beliefs and practices, and engaged students in a thoughtful question-and-answer conversation.

The field trip allowed students to move beyond classroom study and encounter another religious tradition in a meaningful, respectful setting. Through direct conversation and observation, students were able to deepen their understanding of religious diversity and the ways faith communities express belief, identity and belonging.

OLLU Students visit Hindu Temple

The experience reflects OLLU’s commitment to dialogue, community engagement and learning across differences. It also provided Theology and Spiritual Action students an opportunity to connect their academic work with the diverse religious and cultural communities of San Antonio.

Students Build Faith Community Through Bible Study

Four weeks into a new Bible study group at Our Lady of the Lake University, students are finding a welcoming space to explore Scripture, strengthen their faith and encourage one another.

The group was started by Devontae Da Costa and Bryant Wade, who joined with Dan, an elder from Da Costa’s church, to lead weekly gatherings. The Bible study grew from Da Costa’s own experience attending a small group hosted by a former teammate.

“Last year, one of my teammates hosted a small Bible study, and I went,” Da Costa said. “I didn’t expect much going in, but that room ended up teaching me a lot about the Bible, about my own faith and about the kind of man I wanted to be.”

When his teammate graduated and the group ended, Da Costa continued reflecting on the impact it had made in his life. He wanted to create a similar opportunity for other students at OLLU.

“So I teamed up with Bryant, my coworker and brother in Christ, and Dan, an elder at my church who has been a big part of helping us run it every week,” he said.

Da Costa said his decision to help lead the group is rooted in the growth he has experienced over the past two years through consistent Bible reading and relationships with people who have encouraged him in his faith.

“My faith has been growing a lot over the last two years,” Da Costa said. “One thing I’ve noticed about people who really follow Jesus is that they bring others with them. That’s what I want to do. A Bible study, and inviting your friends and family into it, is one of the best ways I know to do that.”

For Da Costa and Wade, the most meaningful part of the experience has been welcoming students who are new to following Jesus or are beginning to explore their faith.

“The most meaningful moments have been when someone new comes in—someone who’s just starting to follow Jesus,” Da Costa said. “Getting to sit with them, open the Word together and watch them grow closer to God is why we do this.”

The group’s early sessions have already created meaningful conversations and connections among participants. It also adds to the opportunities available for students to explore faith, build community and grow spiritually at OLLU, where University Ministry supports faith exploration and a campus community that includes people of many faith traditions.

Welcome, Drew Shelnutt, Director of the Center for Student Involvement

Please join us in welcoming Andrew “Drew” Shelnutt as OLLU’s Director of the Center for Student Involvement. Drew joined the university on September 14.

In this role, Drew leads the Center’s work with student organizations, student leaders, and campus programs. He will support opportunities for students to connect, develop leadership skills, and build a sense of belonging at OLLU.

Drew comes to OLLU after eight years at the University of Texas at San Antonio. Most recently, he worked in the Alvarez College of Business Student Success Center, providing career guidance and professional development support to undergraduate business students. He graduated from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia, in 2008 and from the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University in 2011.

Before his work at UTSA, Drew served as Director of Faith Formation at St. Helena Catholic Church in northeast San Antonio. He also spent many years volunteering as a catechist for learners ages 8 to 88. If you would like to nerd out about Catholic theology or simply say hello, stop by and meet Drew in Main 123!

San Anto Zine Fest Draws More Than 500 Visitors to OLLU

Our Lady of the Lake University welcomed more than 500 visitors to campus for the San Anto Zine Fest, a celebration of independent self-publishing, creativity and community.

Hosted by OLLU’s Visual and New Media Arts program, the event brought together artists, zinesters and supporters from San Antonio and beyond. Participating creators traveled from across Texas as well as California, Chicago, Indianapolis and Massachusetts to share their work, connect with fellow artists and celebrate the power of independently produced art and storytelling.

Throughout the event, attendees explored a wide range of zines, publications and creative works that reflected diverse perspectives, artistic styles and personal narratives. The festival created a welcoming space for artists and community members to exchange ideas, discover new voices and support independent makers.

The success of San Anto Zine Fest reflects the dedication of the Visual and New Media Arts program, event organizers, OLLU staff and the many student and community volunteers who helped make the day possible.

Thank you to everyone who contributed their time, talent and energy to bringing this vibrant event to the OLLU campus—and to the more than 500 visitors who joined us in supporting independent artists and self-publishing.

OLLU Receives Federal Grants to Support High-Need Professions

Our Lady of the Lake University has received new federal funding to expand opportunities for students pursuing careers in special education, school psychology and social work while helping address workforce shortages in San Antonio and across Texas.

The funding includes $1.25 million over five years from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education Programs for Project RISE—Research-Informed Interdisciplinary Scholar Preparation in Evidence-Based Practices.

Project RISE will provide need-based scholarships to approximately 54 students across three cohorts preparing to become special education teachers. Scholars may pursue Special Education Specialist EC–12 certification through undergraduate, accelerated Master of Arts in Teaching or Master of Education pathways. Participants also will receive clinical residency experience and preparation in evidence-based practices, co-teaching and inclusive instruction, with an emphasis on preparing graduates to serve high-need school districts.

OLLU will also participate in the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Other Related Disabilities (LEND) Program through a five-year, $177,302 subaward from the University of the Incarnate Word. The funding will support two long-term graduate trainees each year—one in School Psychology and one in Social Work—who will each receive a $10,000 annual stipend and complete at least 300 hours of interdisciplinary training. School Psychology faculty members Kristin O’Donnell, Ph.D., and Marlo Mitchell-Gonzales, Ph.D., will help mentor trainees and support specialized training, autism diagnostic clinics, and curriculum development.

Portrait of young female teacher helping group of little kids doing test work in school classroom copy space
By Seventyfour

“These awards reflect the strength of OLLU’s academic programs and our faculty’s commitment to preparing graduates for professions where highly trained practitioners are urgently needed,” Provost Alan Silva, Ph.D. said. “They also give our students meaningful opportunities to learn across disciplines, gain substantial clinical experience and translate that training directly into service for children, families and communities.”

Celebrate Our Legacy: Volunteer for Heritage Day 2026

We are excited to invite you to participate in our upcoming Heritage Day Celebration on Sunday, October 11, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Moye Retreat Center, 600 London Street, Castroville, Texas 78009. This special event is an opportunity to honor the history, mission, and legacy of the Congregation of Divine Providence while serving our community and connecting with others.

The Sisters of Divine Providence would love to have your help throughout the event. Volunteers are needed to assist with event preparation, welcoming guests, food service, raffles, activities, tours, and cleanup. Opportunities are available before, during, and after the event. 

If you are interested in volunteering, please sign up using the link below:

🔗 Volunteer Sign-Up: Heritage Day Volunteer Registration Form

Please also feel free to share this opportunity with friends, classmates, fellow students, alumni, parents, or anyone who may be interested in serving. Heritage Day is a great way to earn volunteer hours, gain service experience, and be part of a meaningful community event.

Heritage Day Volunteer PosterDownload

What’s Happening On Campus

• Monday, Sept. 28 – Friday, October 2

Midterms

• Tuesday, Sept. 29, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. 

DeStress Fest on the front walk between Main and Moye. Cohosted by Counseling and Wellness Services and the Center for Student Involvement.

• Wednesday, Sept 30, 2-3 p.m. and Thursday, Oct 1, 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.

Mulching the St. Francis Pollinator Garden: Center for Service-Learning and Volunteerism will be preparing the ground for new pollinator garden dedicated to St Francis.  All are welcome. Come prepared for outdoor garden work, including laying down cardboard and covering it with mulch.

• Wednesday, Sept 30, 11:00 a.m.

Wing Wednesday! Come by Chef’s Table and order your favorite flavors! Supplies are limited so make sure to order ahead on Grubhub!

• Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026, 8:30 a.m.

Purple Run 5K, hosted by Family Violence Prevention Services and the Battered Women and Children’s Shelter of Bexar County in support of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. For complete event details and registration, visit the Purple Run website. Purple Run registration and information

• Monday, Oct. 5, 2026

Last Day to Register to Vote: Center for Service-Learning and Volunteerism will have a table in the Mall from 12-2 p.m. to collect last registration forms.  This is also the last day to check  registration status and correct any errors.

• Tuesday, October 6

Kappa Delta Chi will be hosting activities in CRAVE in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. 

• Thursday, Oct. 8, noon – 1:30 p.m.

Elmendorf Lake Cleanup with the Center for Service-Learning and Volunteerism. Kick off the clean-up with a performance celebrating water with the Mazayolotli Danza organization, followed by the clean-up. Participants should come prepared to do light work outdoors, but all necessary supplies will be provided, including gloves, tools, trash bags, etc. The event concludes with a second dance performance at the Fountain in the Mall. 

• Thursday, October 8 from 6-8 p.m.

SPB Latin Night in the Library Community Room. Saints Programming Board will have snacks, music, and activities celebrating Hispanic Heritage, and opportunities to win prizes.

• Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026, 8:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

OLLU Fall Open House. If you see students and their families on campus, please take a moment to say hello and help give them a warm OLLU welcome.

• Sunday, Oct. 11, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Heritage Day; see Lake Weekly article for more information

• Tuesday, Oct. 13, all day

Saints Step Up Day, in the Library Commons. The day focuses on advising, academic planning, and preparing for Spring 2027.

• Wednesday, Oct. 14, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

They Want Your Blood (Drive) annual Halloween-themed blood drive will be located inthe Front Walk in front of Moye Hall. Preregistration is encouraged but some walk-in space is available.

• Thursday, Oct. 15–Saturday, Oct. 17.

Third Annual Hip Hop Summit: This free, three-day event features San Antonio and Houston artists and educators, with hands-on learning about the elements of Hip Hop and an exploration of Knowledge of Self. Artist educators include Vocab, MexStep, Joaquin, Limon, VoodooChild, Laura Rios-Ramirez, and DJ MrG.

• October 19–23

Make a Difference Week, sponsored by the Center for Service-Learning and Volunteerism, will be coordinated with various student organizations and campus offices to have a service event every day this week. More details will be announced.

• Tuesday, Oct. 20, noon – 2 p.m.

Fall Fest on the Mall, will feature games and prizes, food trucks, exotic animals, and more.

• Friday, October 23 

SPB Movie & Craft Night with a screening of The Nightmare Before Christmas along with a craft activity and popcorn. Location is still being finalized.

• Saturday, Oct. 24

Make a Difference Day, sponsored by the Center for Service-Learning and Volunteerism., will be planting the St. Francis pollinator garden in the area behind the Softball Fields.  More details to be announced.

• Wednesday, Oct. 28, 9 a.m. – 10 a.m.

President’s Walk and Exercise is Medicine Month Competition.  See Lake Weekly article for more information.

Did You Know?

For 39 years, the Hispanic Heritage Foundation has presented its annual Hispanic Heritage Awards to honor achievement, cultural pride, and visionary leadership across a range of fields. The awards were established by the White House in 1988 to commemorate the creation of Hispanic Heritage Month and are recognized as “America’s Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration.” 

This year, San Antonio’s own Congressman Joaquin Castro received the Public Service Award in recognition of his longstanding commitment to public service and his advocacy for immigrant families and other communities. Castro, who represents San Antonio in Congress, has spoken out on the treatment of immigrants and has advocated for greater oversight and humane treatment of detained families. 

Other 2026 recipients included:

• Social Justice Award: Singer-songwriter Mon Laferte

• Music Award: Mexican singer-songwriter, activist, and actress Ximena Sariñana

• Legend Award: Venezuelan singer and musician Oscar D’León

• Inspira Award: Latin GRAMMY-winning, multi-platinum artist Eladio Carrión

• Humanitarian Award: The People of Minnesota 

This year marked the first time in the awards’ history that the event was held outside of Washington, D.C. The ceremony took place at Orchestra Hall in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on September 10. Minnesota was selected to receive the Humanitarian Award in recognition of the collective strength, resilience, compassion, and community action of its people. 

The evening featured performances by Eladio Carrión, Mon Laferte, Ximena Sariñana, and the legendary Mexican American band Los Tigres del Norte. Comedian and entertainer Anjelah Johnson-Reyes served as host. The full ceremony will be broadcast on the local PBS station, KLRN on Friday, October 2, 2026 at 8 p.m.

To learn more about the Hispanic Heritage Foundation, explore the 2026 awardees, or see a list of past recipients, visit Hispanic Heritage Awards 2026

Effective October 19: Convent Parking Update

As many of you may know, OLLU is nearing full occupancy with our tenants at the Convent, with most offices on the first and second floors now occupied. As our tenant community continues to grow, additional parking is needed to accommodate those residing at the Convent.

Effective Monday, October 19, 2026, all parking spaces at the Convent (LOT L) will be reserved exclusively for Convent tenants. The handicap accessible parking spots will still be open to the OLLU community on a first come first serve basis. Lot A will not be affected by this update. Each tenant will be issued a parking tag to identify authorized vehicles.

We appreciate everyone’s cooperation and understanding as we make this adjustment to support the needs of our tenants.

For questions regarding this change, please contact University Police at 210-431-4022 or police@ollusa.edu.

Thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation.

Click to access ollu-campus-map-2026.pdf