The Our Lady of the Lake University men’s and women’s basketball teams will host two themed home events this week at Mabee Gymnasium, beginning with an “ugly sweater” night on Thursday as the Saints face Southwest as they go into conference action. The women’s game is scheduled for 5:30 p.m., followed by the men’s game at 7:30 p.m. Fans are encouraged to participate by wearing their most creative holiday sweaters to help create a festive atmosphere as OLLU takes the court.
The week’s promotions continue on Saturday with “Youth Day” during the Saints matchups against UNT Dallas. The women’s team will tip off at 1:00 p.m., and the men’s game will follow at 3:00 p.m. Fans in attendance will have the opportunity to enjoy autograph sessions with the players as well as photo opportunities on the court, offering a memorable experience and a chance to engage with the teams.
OLLU invites students, families and community members to take part in both themed game days and support the Saints as they compete in this week’s doubleheaders.
OLLU is excited to host the renowned Campanas de America for a special Valentine’s Day Concert on Saturday, February 7 in Thiry Auditorium.
Guests will enjoy an evening of exceptional mariachi music from one of San Antonio’s most celebrated ensembles. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the concert begins at 7:00 p.m.
Join us for a musical celebration perfect for Valentine’s Day, community connection, and an unforgettable night on the OLLU campus. For assistance, contact geriosa@ollusa.edu.
This week, Our Lady of the Lake University hosted H-E-B leaders, elected officials, and members of the campus community for the presentation of a $150,000 Workforce Readiness Grant from H-E-B, directly supporting OLLU’s newly announced Workforce Readiness Initiative. This grant marks a significant investment in student success across meaningful careers in high-demand industries.
The H-E-B Workforce Readiness Initiative represents a significant step forward in empowering OLLU students to gain critical skills, build professional networks, and transition smoothly into the workforce careers through paid internships, micro-internships, faculty-mentored career tracks, and professional development boot camps. The program is expected to benefit more than 600 students each year, strengthening their preparation for in-demand careers across the region.
Dr. Peter Soltys, OLLU alum and H-E-B Program Leader, presented the check to President Dr. Abel A. Chávez, noting H-E-B’s long-standing focus on education and community impact.
“This partnership exemplifies our shared commitment to creating equitable access to career opportunities,” said Dr. Abel A. Chávez, OLLU President. “H-E-B’s investment not only supports our students but also strengthens the workforce of our city and region.”
State Senator Jose Menendez and OLLU Trustee Romanita Mata-Barrera also attended, sharing encouragement and highlighting how partnerships like this strengthen both students and the region’s growing industries.
The gift adds to two recent contributions—a $250,000 donation and a $1 million commitment from anonymous supporters.
Our Lady of the Lake University is moving boldly into the future with new academic offerings, expanded workforce partnerships, and renewed efforts to support student success. As higher education continues to evolve, OLLU is taking intentional steps to meet the needs of today’s students while strengthening our mission for generations to come.
This year, OLLU announced the development of several new, in-demand degree programs designed to prepare students for emerging career opportunities. These include programs in business, logistics and supply chain management, and healthcare management—fields identified as growing areas within the San Antonio and South Texas region. These additions aim to provide more accessible, market-aligned pathways for current and future students.
Alongside academic expansion, OLLU is also launching a Workforce Readiness Initiative to better support students as they prepare for life after graduation. The initiative includes paid internships, professional development training, mentoring opportunities, and career preparation designed to help students gain real-world experience and build confidence as they enter the workforce. Through generous support from community partners, these programs will provide direct benefits to hundreds of OLLU students.
While higher education nationwide faces enrollment challenges, OLLU is using this moment to innovate, adapt, and strengthen the student experience. These efforts reflect our enduring commitment to access, opportunity, and the mission entrusted to us by the Sisters of Divine Providence.
The future is bright at OLLU—and together, we are shaping it with purpose.
This past Sunday, December 7, members of the Our Lady of the Lake University community came together in an inspiring display of determination, teamwork, and school pride at the inaugural San Antonio Marathon. Members from the Athletics program, OLLU PD, and Marketing, Community & Engagement proudly represented OLLU as runners in the half-marathon (13.1 miles), each contributing to an unforgettable day of community spirit.
From left to right: Chief Zertuche (Chief of OLLU Police), Tom Norris (Athletics Director), Veronica M. Cavazos (Marketing, Communications & Engagement Manager)
The San Antonio Marathon marked the 4th half marathon for veteran runner Tom (2:44), and the 1st for both Chief Zertuche (2:52) and Veronica (2:44).
When asked, “How do you tie this event into the legacy you want to leave?” they each had thoughtful—and inspiring—answers:
Chief:“It’s about finishing the mission more than anything else.”
Tom:“For me, it’s about getting outside my comfort zone and proving I can do anything I set my mind to—and overcome any adversity in front of me.”
Veronica:“When I committed to this health journey and goal, it became about staying faithful to myself and accountable to the people who love me.”
Three runners, three powerful reasons, and one unforgettable finish line. 🏅💙
Our very own Chartwells Dining Services was proudly represented by Jessica Kelly, General Manager, who ran the 5K on Friday night, December 5. She and her daughter lit up the course—literally—wearing their running gear and glowing neon accessories as they powered through the evening race.
Their enthusiasm and energy set the tone for the weekend and added to the OLLU presence across all marathon events.
The San Antonio Marathon events also highlighted the university’s commitment to health, wellness, and community engagement. By participating, OLLU not only celebrated physical fitness but also reinforced the values of perseverance, support, and connection—values that run deep within the university’s mission and culture.
The OLLU members made their presence known. The event was a reminder that when Saints come together, they lift one another higher—one step, one mile, and one act of support at a time.
Congratulations to all participants, who showcased the heart of OLLU at this year’s San Antonio Marathon. Go Saints!
Tallahasse, Florida- The Our Lady of the Lake University women’s cross-country team delivered a record-setting performance at the 2025 NAIA National Championships in Tallahassee, Florida, finishing 28th overall. This is the highest national placement in program history. The Saints entered the meet with confidence and left having reached a milestone that showcased their depth, discipline, and steady program growth. There were 36 teams who competed and 333 runners in the field.
Kristen Torres led OLLU with a time of 22:39.2, running a controlled and consistent race on the challenging 6K course finishing 60th. Close on her heels, Mia Curiel delivered one of her strongest performances of the season, finishing in 23:14 and maintaining a steady pace through the demanding middle miles. Liliana Hernandez added another strong effort, crossing the line in 23:30.6 with a powerful closing stretch that secured valuable points for the team.
Zaddie Santacruz continued OLLU’s scoring momentum with a composed national debut, finishing in 23:42.7. Leilania Leza followed with a 25:12 effort, rounding out the Saints’ scoring and playing a key role in their historic finish. Daylah Vega finished in 25:50.7, providing additional depth, while Victoria Bartlett closed the team results with a 27:03 effort in her final collegiate cross-country race.
The Saints 28th-place finish marks a defining moment for the program. With several top performers returning in 2026, OLLU is poised to build on this breakthrough and continue its ascent within the NAIA.
The Math and Sciences Department is proud to introduce a new tradition at Our Lady of the Lake University — the first annual Metz Achievement Awards, celebrating Fall 2025 graduates from the Kinesiology, Biology, and Environmental Science and Sustainability programs.
Held in recognition of academic excellence, perseverance, and the transformative journeys of OLLU’s science students, the Metz Achievement Awards will honor graduating seniors through personalized reflections shared by their faculty mentors. Each student will be recognized for completing their degree requirements and for the meaningful impact they have made within their programs.
Tuesday, December 9 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm Hosted by the Math and Sciences Department
Grubhub mobile ordering officially launches on campus Wednesday,December3. Students, faculty, and staff will be able to place orders from campus dining locations — and select off-campus restaurants — directly through the Grubhub app.
As part of the rollout, self-service ordering kiosks will be available across campus this week to make grabbing meals even faster and more convenient.
The new system is designed to make dining at OLLU more flexible and efficient. To learn more about the partnership, click the link below!
Our Lady of the Lake University is pleased to welcome Cynthia Rocha as the new Alumni Director.
Rocha brings extensive experience in community engagement, nonprofit leadership, and relationship building, most recently serving through her work with Lifelong Legacies, where she partnered with organizations to strengthen alumni networks, elevate storytelling, and foster long-term donor and volunteer connections.
In her new role at OLLU, Rocha will lead efforts to engage alumni, expand outreach programs, and create meaningful opportunities for Saints to stay connected with the university and with one another.
Lake Weekly will go on a short break due to the Thanksgiving holiday for the week of December 1. Lake Weekly will resume publication on Monday, Dec. 8.
A reminder: All stories for Lake Weekly must be submitted no later than Thursday at 5 p.m.
