Author: OLLUNewsletter

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.

Click here for the full article: OLLU eyes new degree programs in response to enrollment downslide

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.

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!

Our Lady of the Lake University proudly highlights the journey of Aundrea Culliver, OTD, OTR/L, a 2020 Kinesiology alumna whose passion for service, healing, and lifelong learning has taken her across the country—and now back home to San Antonio.

Building a foundation at OLLU

Culliver graduated from OLLU with a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology (Health Science concentration), where she was also a dedicated student-athlete. She credits the university’s close-knit environment and the mentorship of faculty and coaches—especially Dr. Hall and Coach Smith—for shaping both her academic success and personal growth.

“My time at OLLU was defined by strong community and lasting relationships,” she shared. “I valued the camaraderie and family-like environment within the athletic program, which encouraged me to excel both in academics and in sports.”

From OLLU to a Doctorate in Occupational therapy

After graduation, Culliver was accepted into the University of St. Augustine, where she earned her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy (OTD). Throughout her doctoral training, she completed multiple clinical rotations and developed a deep commitment to helping individuals regain independence and meaning in their everyday lives.

Her capstone project—a scoping review on neurofeedback within occupational therapy for clients with substance use disorders—allowed her to explore innovative behavioral health interventions. She also implemented occupational therapy practices at The Arbor Behavioral Health Addiction Treatment Center in Georgetown, Texas.

Culliver graduated with her OTD in August 2023 and passed her national board certification in February 2024.

A Career of service and travel

Shortly after becoming licensed, Culliver began working as a travel occupational therapist, taking on 3–6 month contracts across the country. Her work focuses on helping patients recover from stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, amputation, and other conditions that affect daily independence.

“The most rewarding part of my career is witnessing my patients’ progress and helping them rediscover confidence and purpose.”

Her career has also allowed her to explore new places, including international travel during breaks between assignments.

Returning home

Now on her fourth travel assignment, Culliver has returned to San Antonio to work at Methodist Texsan Hospital, where she is grateful for the chance to serve the community that shaped her.

“It’s been incredibly rewarding to serve my own community and give back to the place that shaped me to be where I am today!”

Giving back through mentorship

Passionate about lifting up the next generation, Culliver welcomes OLLU students who are curious about the field of occupational therapy.

“If anyone is interested in learning more about the field of occupational therapy or seeking shadowing opportunities, I would be happy to share my experiences, offer insight, and provide mentorship to those pursuing this rewarding career.”

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Contact & follow!

To get in touch with Dr. Culliver or follow along her journey, use the contact information below.

Phone – 512-971-0619
Email – aundrea.culliver23@gmail.com
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/dr.ottraveler/

Beginning Spring 2026, Our Lady of the Lake University will debut a new tradition: one unified Commencement Ceremony that brings together all graduating students in a single, memorable celebration. This change aligns with OLLU’s commitment to elevating the student experience and honoring graduates as one united community.

What You need to know

• Graduation is the formal awarding of a degree after all academic requirements are completed.
• Commencement is the spring ceremony where OLLU recognizes graduates alongside their families, friends, faculty, and staff.
• Participation in Commencement does not confirm graduation—students must meet all degree requirements for the term in which they applied to graduate.

This new approach—One Lake, One Ceremony, One Celebration—creates a shared moment for every graduate to be honored together and marks an exciting evolution of OLLU’s commencement traditions.