UT San Antonio recently announced a $1.5 million investment from Valero intended to strengthen the university’s commitment to student success and workplace development. On Aug. 27, Valero officially awarded the $1.5 million to the benefit of students at the Carlos Alvarez College of Business and the Klesse College of Engineering and Integrated Design.
Students from either college have experienced a high rate of employment by Valero in the past. Throughout Valero’s 37 years of support, 160 interns and over 400 current Valero employees hail from UT San Antonio. This extensive hiring is due to both colleges preparing students with real-world skills needed in high-demand fields. The ongoing student-to-professional pipeline has ensured targeted support where the demand for skilled graduates is highest.
“This investment shows Valero’s deep commitment not only to UT San Antonio but to the San Antonio community,” said Dr. Jonathan Halbesleben, Dean of the Carlos Alvarez College of Business. “By supporting our students, Valero is helping ensure that our graduates are prepared for high-demanding careers that benefit both industry and [the] city as a whole.”
Along with scholarships, the gift will expand mentorship opportunities, professional development and experiential learning programs.
“This is especially meaningful for first-generation and underserved students who may not have access to professional networks within their families,” Halbesleben said. “Structured mentorship ensures that all students have the guidance they need to succeed in their careers.”
These mentorship opportunities aim to close the gap that many of these first-generation students face. Simultaneously, it ensures equitable access to career pathways exclusive to students attending UT San Antonio. This partnership aligns with UT San Antonio’s mission as a Tier One research university and Hispanic Serving Institution.
Focusing on long-term goals, this partnership is viewed by UT San Antonio heads as a first step in broader partnerships between UT San Antonio and industry leaders. The accomplishment with Valero could serve as a model for other companies to invest in student success.
“Our hope is that this is just the beginning,” Halbesleben added. “As companies see the direct impact of investing with UT San Antonio students, we expect more organizations to join in building a strong, sustainable workforce for San Antonio.”
Areas on campus where students will be able to gain access to new resources include the UT San Antonio Student Success Center, as well as the Career Compass Initiative located in the Alvarez College of Business.
“This gift ensures that UT San Antonio students are not only receiving a world-class education but also the career support and connections they need to thrive,” Halbesleben stated.
