Events News – Lake Weekly

Meet OLLU’s Fall 2026 Artist in Residence: Dr. G. Beatriz “Triz” Rodríguez

The International Folk Culture Center (IFCC) welcomes Dr. G. Beatriz “Triz” Rodríguez as its Artist in Residence for Fall 2026.

The residency will kick off with a Welcome Reception featuring a Cuban merienda prepared by Dr. “Triz,” along with interactive opportunities to learn more about her creative work.

During her residency, Rodríguez will create a participatory, interactive installation in the IFCC Glass Gallery, exploring hip-hop culture, writing, community and artistic expression. My Hip Hop Lit Review will feature cultural texts, Old School artifacts, aerosol works and “The Writer’s Bench,” inspired by the tradition of writers gathering to exchange names, build relationships and develop their unique styles.

With more than 30 years of experience in pedagogy, classroom action, street-based education and aerosol pen Style Writing, Rodríguez brings a dynamic creative and educational practice to OLLU.

Throughout the semester, she will collaborate with the OLLU Education Department, Visual and New Media Arts Department, Center for Student Involvement and Catholic Imaginations course through guest teaching, workshops, community events and office hours.

Join us in welcoming Dr. “Triz” Rodríguez to OLLU!

RSVP for the Welcome Reception: RSVP Here

Make Plans to Attend: OLLU Is Marching in El Dieciséis de Septiembre Parade!

Saturday, September 12, 2026

Get ready to represent the Saints! Our Lady of the Lake University will be marching in El Dieciséis de Septiembre Parade on Saturday, September 12, joining the Avenida Guadalupe Association’s longstanding celebration of Mexican-American history, culture and community.

This annual parade brings the community together in San Antonio’s historic Westside and celebrates the cultural heritage and history connected to Mexico’s independence and the region.

We Need Saints to Join the March!

OLLU is looking for faculty, staff, students, alumni and friends who would like to walk with the university and show their Saints pride.

Whether you’re a longtime participant or joining for the first time, this is a great opportunity to represent OLLU, connect with the community and celebrate our city’s rich cultural heritage.

Make Plans to Attend:
📅 Saturday, September 12, 2026: Parade Step-Off @ 10 AM
📍 Avenida Guadalupe / San Antonio’s Historic Westside
💙💛 Represent OLLU. Walk with the Saints.

Want to Volunteer and March With OLLU?

For information about joining the OLLU contingent, contact:

Jesse Harasta
Director, Center for Service-Learning and Volunteerism
(210) 431-3990
joharasta@ollusa.edu

Come march with us and show San Antonio what it means to be a Saint!

San Anto Zine Fest Comes to OLLU on September 19

Professor Gonzalez and OLLU’s Visual & New Media Arts Program are excited to welcome San Anto Zine Fest to campus this year. Since 2017, San Anto Zine Fest has created a space for self-published artists and writers to share their work and connect with the community.

Save the date for San Anto Zine Fest at the UWAC on September 19, 2026. The open call for zine exhibitors and workshop or panel talk proposals is now live at bit.ly/SAZF26App, and applications are due July 20.

For more information, visit sanantozinefest.com or contact Professor Gonzalez at sbgonzalez@ollusa.edu.

OLLU Students Lead Annual Earth Day Celebration Focused on Sustainability and Community

Our Lady of the Lake University will celebrate Earth Day on Wednesday, April 22, with its annual student-led event highlighting sustainability initiatives, environmental stewardship, and campus collaboration.

Organized by Environmental Science and Sustainability (ESS) students, the Earth Day celebration has been a campus tradition since 2019. This year’s event brings together students, faculty, community partners, and local sustainability organizations for hands-on activities and learning opportunities centered on caring for the environment and supporting sustainable communities.

The main event will take place during Community Hour in the Mall Area from 12–2 p.m., featuring tabling by campus departments and sustainability-focused community organizations, interactive activities, giveaways, and a food truck for attendees.

This year’s celebration will also showcase several student-driven sustainability projects across campus, including the introduction of OLLU’s new campus garden and hydroponics systems, spaces developed and maintained by students to promote environmental education and sustainable food practices. Students have also contributed to the revitalization of the CDP Peace Garden, expanding green spaces that support reflection, learning, and community engagement.

In partnership with the local National Audubon Society, students will unveil newly installed specialized birdhouses funded through a collaborative conservation project designed to support local bird habitats and biodiversity.

The Earth Day event reflects OLLU’s continued commitment to living out the principles of Laudato Si’ and advancing university-led sustainability efforts within urban communities. Through student leadership and cross-campus collaboration, OLLU continues to model how environmental responsibility and community engagement go hand in hand.

Students, employees, and community members are invited to join the celebration and learn how small actions can contribute to lasting environmental impact.

Visual Art Spring Showcase on View Through April 27

The Visual and New Media Art program is presenting the Visual Art Spring Showcase, featuring new work by students in Painting, Self-Portraiture and New Media Art, and Barrio Art and Popular Culture classes.

This semester’s final group show offers a look at the range of student creativity on display, from plein-air landscapes and stained-glass painting to digital animation.

The exhibition will remain on view through April 27, 2026, in the Main 3rd Floor Gallery.

For more information, email Professor Gonzalez at sbgonzalez@ollusa.edu

Senior Exhibition “Pain & Comfort” Opens April 30

The OLLU Visual and New Media Arts program will present “Pain & Comfort,” a senior exhibition and capstone presentation by Dayanara Torres, also known as Dreamy Dulce.

In this new body of work, Torres explores personal experiences and pain through a multidisciplinary artistic approach while reflecting on the coping mechanisms that have shaped her journey.

The opening reception will be held on April 30 from 6-8 p.m. in the Library Community Room. Guests are invited to attend and experience this special presentation of Torres’ work. For more information, contact dtorres21sp61@ollusa.edu.

Women, Art, and Legacy: OLLU Students Paint Alongside the Sisters This Women’s History Month

In celebration of Women’s History Month, Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) continues a meaningful spring tradition that brings art, community, and legacy together. Each year, Painting I students step outside the classroom and into the serene Sisters’ Peace Garden near the CDP buildings, transforming the space into an open-air studio filled with creativity and connection.

This season, the experience takes on even greater significance. As students paint among the flowers and quiet pathways, they are joined—often unexpectedly—by the Sisters themselves, women whose lives reflect a deep commitment to service, education, and artistic expression. Their presence adds a living layer of history and inspiration, creating moments of shared reflection across generations.

Rooted in creativity and community, this experience reflects the power of art to bridge stories, celebrate women’s voices, and bring people together in meaningful ways.

OLLU warmly invites the Sisters and campus community to join Painting I students for outdoor painting sessions in the Sisters’ garden in celebration of Women’s History Month

📅 Dates/Time: Monday, March 23 & Wednesday, March 25 from 1:45 – 3:00 pm.
📍 Location: Sisters’ Garden near the CDP Buildings
🎨 Experience: Live student painting, artistic exchange, and community connection

Come enjoy a peaceful, creative atmosphere and celebrate the artistic spirit and enduring legacy of women at OLLU.

Holy Week at OLLU: March 29 – April 1

Join University Ministry for a week of prayer, reflection, and community as we observe Holy Week at OLLU. From Palm Sunday Mass to Adoration, Stations of the Cross, and daily Mass, all are invited to take part in these meaningful traditions across campus.

All services are open to students, faculty, and staff. For questions, contact University Ministry at universityministry@ollusa.edu.

The Gatherings: Young Artist Edition Showcases Local Creativity

The IFCC is hosting The Gatherings: Young Artist Edition, curated by San Antonio fiber artist, Deborah Harris.

The Gatherings will feature young local artists who have been asked to ponder the question; What Sparks Your Creativity? Artists come from around the city and will have their artwork installed in the IFCC Glass Gallery in the MARC Ballroom.

Featured Young Artists: Josiah Harris Dominique Jordan Tasiah Mayfield Izel Perez Dayanara Torres (representing the OLLU Art and Visual Media Department), and Gary Young.

full details & RSVP here

IFCC to Host Second Annual Selena Fiesta

IFCC Second Annual Fiesta Alternative Event, Selena Fiesta!

This year’s Selena Fiesta! will feature party-vibe cumbia lessons to songs from La Reina, Selena. Special guests will include Zombie Bazaar and Viva Tejana dancers, Tejana Artist, Alicia C, and Los Mentirosos.

All events are FREE!

Classes and Party will be held in the MARC Ballroom, bring friends and family. Selena Fiesta is an inclusive and safe space.

Full Details & RSVP Here