Category: News

Our Lady of the Lake Holds Off UNT Dallas for 53–51 Victory

Our Lady of the Lake University women’s basketball earned a 53–51 victory over UNT Dallas, using balanced scoring, rebounding, and defensive pressure to secure the win.

OLLU shot 38.6 percent from the field (22-of-57) and held UNT Dallas to 34.5 percent shooting (20-of-58). The Saints also won the rebounding battle 41–34, including 13 offensive boards that led to second-chance opportunities.

Samantha Fields led OLLU with 13 points on 5-of-13 shooting, adding five rebounds, five steals, and two assists in 35 minutes. Macie Moss contributed 10 points and seven rebounds, while Amya Miller-Singleton provided a strong spark off the bench with eight points on 3-of-4 shooting and five rebounds in 14 minutes. Alexandra Westerdijk Martin filled the stat sheet with six points, a game-high 11 rebounds, four assists, and seven steals. Shayla Dede added five points, two assists, and a block, and Isabella Jaramillo finished with four points and four rebounds.

Defensively, OLLU forced 28 turnovers and recorded 16 steals, limiting UNT Dallas offensive rhythm throughout the game. The Saints committed 30 turnovers of their own, but offset them with rebounding and timely scoring.

OLLU went 5-of-7 from the free-throw line, while UNT Dallas shot 5-of-10. The Saints also knocked down four three-pointers to UNT Dallas six but made up the difference with interior scoring and rebounding. The win was sealed by OLLU’s defensive stops late, preserving the two-point margin at the final buzzer. The Saints will be back in action next week against Texas College at home on January 29th at 5:30 PM CDT.

OLLU Men Roll Past Texas College

Our Lady of the Lake men’s basketball delivered a strong, complete performance in a 94–72 victory over Texas College, controlling the game with physicality on both ends of the floor.

OLLU set the tone early by attacking the paint and crashing the glass, finishing with a decisive 54–31 rebounding advantage. Kenyon Elliott anchored that effort with a double-double, posting 17 points and 10 rebounds while battling consistently inside. Isaiah Moore was nearly perfect offensively, scoring 14 points on 7-of-9 shooting, giving the Saints a reliable presence in the lane.

The Saints offense flowed efficiently through multiple contributors. Jaydin Morin-Bishop led all scorers with 15 points, knocking down three shots from beyond the arc and adding two steals in an active two-way effort. Off the bench, Barack Holland and Davonte Durst each provided 12 points, with Durst also dishing out six assists to keep the offense moving. OLLU finished with 22 assists on 35 made field goals, a clear reflection of unselfish play and disciplined execution.

Defensively, OLLU applied steady pressure and forced 20 Texas College turnovers, turning stops into transition opportunities. The Saints also recorded 12 steals as a team, disrupting rhythm and limiting Texas College’s ability to build sustained momentum. While Texas College was led by Jason Roseberry Jr.’s 21-point performance and Gelil Ward’s 20 points off the bench, OLLU consistently answered scoring runs and maintained control.

Depth proved to be a difference-maker, as OLLU received scoring contributions from 11 different players and outscored Texas College in efficiency and effort over the final stretch. Shooting 46.1 percent from the field and holding a clear advantage on the boards, the Saints steadily pulled away and closed the game with composure.

The win showcased OLLU’s ability to combine physical play, ball movement, and defensive intensity, reinforcing the team’s identity and momentum as the season continues. The Saints will be back in action Saturday against Jarvis Christian at 3:00 PM CDT.

OLLU Pulls Away Late to Defeat Texas College

Our Lady of the Lake women’s basketball earned a hard-fought victory over Texas College, closing the game with a 59–50 win built on defensive pressure, timely shooting, and composure at the free-throw line.

The Saints set the tone early with active defense, forcing Texas College into turnovers and contested looks throughout the night. OLLU finished with 10 steals and limited Texas College to 34.4 percent shooting from the field and scoreless shooting from beyond the arc. Those defensive stops proved crucial in maintaining momentum during key stretches of the game.

Shayla Dede led the way for OLLU with a team-high 17 points, knocking down three three-pointers and adding four steals on the defensive end. Alexandra Westerdijk Martin delivered a strong all-around performance with 11 points and nine rebounds, while Isabella Jaramillo provided an efficient nine points, hitting two three-pointers and helping space the floor. Macie Moss controlled the glass with a game-high 11 rebounds, giving the Saints second-chance opportunities despite a challenging shooting night.

OLLU’s bench played a valuable role, particularly Zariah Todd, who contributed six points, four rebounds, and three assists while bringing energy on both ends of the floor. The Saints also capitalized at the free-throw line, converting 19 of 25 attempts, a decisive advantage in a tightly contested matchup.

Texas College was led by Jakairi Blacknell, who scored 14 points and grabbed nine rebounds, while Taryanna McNary added 12 points on efficient shooting. Codee Roland recorded a double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds, but Texas College struggled to overcome 29 turnovers, which repeatedly halted offensive rhythm.

With disciplined defense, balanced scoring, and poise in late-game situations, Our Lady of the Lake secured the victory against the Steers. The Saints will be back in action Saturday against Jarvis Christian at 1:00 PM CDT.

A Message from President Chávez

Speak Up Speak Out at Our Lady of the Lake

A couple of weeks ago we had over 500 students from throughout San Antonio on our campus.  The students, from 3rd graders to high schoolers, were part of an annual civic education program competition called Speak Up Speak Out organized by CAST Schools.  This was their 8th year holding the event.

The competition consists of having the students propose solutions to problems or issues in their community.  The best ideas win and go on to compete nationally.

It was refreshing to have so many young students on our campus; it was also befitting. Our very Charism reminds us to speak up and speak out as well as instilling in our students the spirit to care and service to their communities.

For example, in 1968, OLLU served as the host site for the historic U.S. Commission on Civil Rights Hearing on Mexican Americans in the Southwest.

In 1974, our Sisters of Divine Providence joined other Catholic leaders and families in advocating for working class Mexican Americans on the city’s west and south sides and created Communities Organized for Public Service (COPS).  Through the years, COPS has taken on political issues and causes in support of fair and equitable distribution of city resources and services. COPS’ success has amounted to over one-billion dollars in group-sponsored projects and initiatives.

In 1985, OLLU brought together academicians and others to discuss the need for a Center for Hispanic Higher Education.  The result was the creation of Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU)… and later Congress designated Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs).

We are entrusted with a voice. OLLU provides the environment to articulate it and amplify it.  And that is what our students do.  Here are some examples:

Gil Coronado (Class of 1975) went on to create Hispanic Heritage Month, a federal month-long designation that celebrates our heritage.

Gloria Rodriguez (Class of 1970 & 1973) went on to start the national early childhood education organization AVANCE, which supports Latino mothers in the raising of their young children in poor communities.  She also is the author of “Raising Nuestros Niños: Bringing Up Latino Children in a Bicultural World.” Her work has been featured in the books of three First Ladies: Barbara Bush, Hillary Clinton, and Rosalynn Carter.

Ernesto Gomez (Class of 1975) is the founder and CEO of CentroMed, a federally qualified health center serving low-income families for over 40 years. What started out as a family counseling program for low-income San Antonio residents grew to 24 service sites in Bexar and Comal counties providing health care to more than 78,000 patients a year.  On average, 47% of their patients lack insurance and 38% are children and youth.

Catholic teaching reminds us that courage, rooted in the virtue of fortitude, is the grace-filled strength to pursue the good with constancy, especially in the times when perseverance and trust in God’s Providence is necessary.

Congratulations to the Speak Up Speak Out winners – stay strong as you advance to the statewide competition in Austin next month.  Your voice inspires.

Spreading the Love: OLLU Peanut Butter Drive Delivers Big for the Salud Center

In celebration of National Peanut Butter Day on January 24, Our Lady of the Lake University came together to make a meaningful impact—one jar at a time. The Campus Peanut Butter Drive, held January 20–23, was a tremendous success, resulting in the grand collection of three pallets of peanut butter—4,320 jars total—donated to the Salud Center.

This generous donation will support the Salud Center’s mission of providing emergency food assistance to members of the OLLU community and our neighbors on the Westside, helping ensure access to one of the most essential and in-demand pantry staples.

Sponsored by the Center for Service-Learning and Volunteerism and the Salud Center, the drive was strengthened through daily tabling during Community Hour and widespread campus participation. The initiative was further amplified by the generous support of our partners—the National Peanut Board, Texas Peanut Producers’ Board, and Wilco Peanut—whose contributions and matching donations helped multiply the impact.

Together, this effort reflects OLLU’s commitment to service and giving back, directly supporting Saints and strengthening our community through collective generosity.

Elevating Our Brand—One Background at a Time

Every interaction is an opportunity to reflect on who we are as a university. To support OLLU’s priority of elevating our brand—both internally and externally—we’re introducing new and updated branded virtual backgrounds for the OLLU community.

These backgrounds, now available in our Brand Guide and Identity SharePoint site, are designed to create a consistent, professional, and recognizable OLLU presence across virtual meetings and external engagements. Whether you’re connecting with colleagues, students, partners, or prospective Saints, these visuals reinforce our shared identity and commitment to excellence.

As we continue to represent Our Lady of the Lake University in digital spaces, we encourage everyone using virtual backgrounds in Microsoft Teams to make the switch to the new branded options. Small changes like this help tell a unified story about who we are and strengthen the impact of our brand—one meeting at a time.

Download your backgrounds today and help us show up as OLLU, wherever we connect.

Virtual backgrounds

Saints Push UNT Dallas Wire to Wire in Hard-Fought Matchup

Our Lady of the Lake men’s basketball battled with resilience and effort but came up short in a 72–67 loss to UNT Dallas in a competitive contest that remained within reach throughout. Despite the final score, OLLU showed balance, toughness, and strong individual performances that reflected the team’s growth and composure.

The Saints were led offensively by Santiago Ochoa, who delivered an efficient and assertive performance. Ochoa finished with 22 points on 9-of-13 shooting, knocked down both of his three-point attempts, and pulled down nine rebounds, anchoring OLLU on both ends of the floor. His consistency kept the Saints in striking distance and set the tone for much of the game.

Barack Holland provided a strong spark off the bench, contributing 12 points in 17 minutes while shooting 5-of-8 from the field. Kenyon Elliott added 10 points and five rebounds, while Jermey Irwin chipped in eight points, seven rebounds, and two steals, showcasing OLLU’s effort on the glass and in transition. As a team, the Saints shot 43.3 percent from the field and were perfect at the free-throw line, converting all nine attempts.

Defensively, OLLU stayed active, recording seven steals and four blocks, with multiple players contributing to pressure and rim protection. While turnovers proved costly at key moments, the Saints continued to compete, matching UNT Dallas physicality and responding to scoring runs with poise.

Though the result did not fall in their favor, Our Lady of the Lake displayed discipline, depth, and strong execution against a tough opponent. The performance highlighted the Saints’ ability to compete at a high level and sets a solid foundation moving forward as they continue to build momentum throughout the season. The Saints will be back in action Thursday against Texas College at 7:30 PM CDT.

Cynthia Rocha Appointed Acting Executive Director for Advancement

Cynthia Rocha has been appointed Acting Executive Director for Advancement at Our Lady of the Lake University, serving in this role through June 2026, while continuing her responsibilities as Director of Alumni Relations.

In this expanded capacity, Cynthia will provide leadership and continuity for Advancement initiatives, supporting alumni engagement, fundraising efforts, and donor relations aligned with the University’s mission. Her deep institutional knowledge, strong relationships with alumni and supporters, and proven leadership make her well-positioned to guide Advancement during this transitional period.

Our Lady of the Lake Holds Off UNT Dallas for 53–51 Victory

Our Lady of the Lake University women’s basketball earned a 53–51 victory over UNT Dallas, using balanced scoring, rebounding, and defensive pressure to secure the win.

OLLU shot 38.6 percent from the field (22-of-57) and held UNT Dallas to 34.5 percent shooting (20-of-58). The Saints also won the rebounding battle 41–34, including 13 offensive boards that led to second-chance opportunities.

Samantha Fields led OLLU with 13 points on 5-of-13 shooting, adding five rebounds, five steals, and two assists in 35 minutes. Macie Moss contributed 10 points and seven rebounds, while Amya Miller-Singleton provided a strong spark off the bench with eight points on 3-of-4 shooting and five rebounds in 14 minutes. Alexandra Westerdijk Martin filled the stat sheet with six points, a game-high 11 rebounds, four assists, and seven steals. Shayla Dede added five points, two assists, and a block, and Isabella Jaramillo finished with four points and four rebounds.

Defensively, OLLU forced 28 turnovers and recorded 16 steals, limiting UNT Dallas offensive rhythm throughout the game. The Saints committed 30 turnovers of their own, but offset them with rebounding and timely scoring.

OLLU went 5-of-7 from the free-throw line, while UNT Dallas shot 5-of-10. The Saints also knocked down four three-pointers to UNT Dallas six but made up the difference with interior scoring and rebounding. The win was sealed by OLLU’s defensive stops late, preserving the two-point margin at the final buzzer. The Saints will be back in action next week against Texas College at home on January 29th at 5:30 PM CDT.

2025 W‑2 Forms – Availability and Access

W‑2 forms for calendar year 2025 will be available digitally through Employee Self-Service via Saints Connect beginning Wednesday, January 28, 2026.

Digital W‑2s (Electronic Consent Given)

Employees who have previously provided electronic consent will be able to access and download their W‑2s directly from Employee Self-Service on January 28.

Please note: OLLU will not mail W‑2s to current employees who have given electronic consent. Employees must print their W‑2s from Employee Self-Service.

Mailed W‑2s (No Electronic Consent)

Employees who have not given electronic consent will receive their W‑2s via U.S. mail at the address on file with Human Resources.

  • W‑2 forms were mailed and postmarked on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.
  • W‑2s cannot be picked up in person by current or former employees.
Re‑Mail Requests

Payroll will begin processing requests to re‑mail W‑2s after February 6, 2026.

If you have not received your mailed W‑2 after that date, please email payroll@ollusa.edu.

Important Update: New Information on Your 2025 W‑2 Form

Starting with your 2025 Form W‑2, a few employees may notice a new entry in Box 14 labeled “Qual OT.”
This entry will appear only for employees who received Qualified Overtime in 2025 under federal overtime rules.

This amount represents the premium portion of your overtime pay (the extra half‑time required under federal law) and is being provided to help you take advantage of a potential tax benefit created by recent federal legislation.

Key Points to Know

  • Not all employees will see this entry.
Salaried employees who are exempt from overtime and hourly employees who did not earn any Qualified Overtime in 2025 will not have a “Qual OT” amount on their W‑2.
  • This amount does not affect your taxable wages or your paycheck.
  • It is provided for informational purposes only to assist you when filing your 2025 federal tax return.
  • You may use this figure when determining eligibility for the new overtime deduction on your federal return.

If you have questions about how this information may affect your tax filing, please consult a qualified tax professional or visit IRS.gov for more details.

Thank you for reviewing this update. We are committed to keeping you informed about changes that may benefit you.

Questions

For any questions regarding your W‑2, please contact the Payroll Office at:
payroll@ollusa.edu

How to Access Your W‑2 Online or Give Electronic Consent

Access to Employee Self-Service is available through the Saints Connect dashboard:

https://experience.elluciancloud.com/olotlu

Once logged in:

  1. Go to the Employee Self-Service card.
  2. Select Tax Info to view your W‑2 or update your consent preferences.