Equity & Justice

Transcript

Let’s head over to here from Maren. She is a Kinesiology major who hosts become a physical therapist and work with athletic teams. She’s also an immigrant from Tanzania and says she loves being part of UTSA’s multicultural community and working to support UTSA students of diverse experiences and backgrounds. Take it away, Maren.

– Thanks. Alex. If you were to tell high school Maren that she’ll be standing here in front of you talking about UTSA, I wouldn’t be surprised. UTSA has felt like home to me from the moment I arrived to tour campus. As a first-year student, I became involved in student organizations on campus, including the African Student Association. Since then, I have served in many leadership positions for organizations focused on the Black community at UTSA. I am proud of our work to advocate for underrepresented students and provide resources to fellow Black student leaders. In our Roadrunner community, we like to say we are birds of a feather. At the same time, every feather is unique, and we take pride in that. UTSA provides resources and cultural heritage events to ensure that all students are recognized, embraced, and celebrated on campus. Amplifying student voices and identities is a priority here at UTSA. The Multicultural Student Center for Equity and Justice is one of many places that does just that. I’m a proud member of their team, and we work together to showcase and highlight different identities and cultures. Here you can find pure facilitated trainings and events, heritage month, celebratory and informational events and community gathering and resources for our Dreamer, LGBTQIA+ and multicultural community on campus. From my first day on campus, I was greeted by a welcoming community and was given a space to embrace my identity and expand my understanding and appreciation of my fellow students. UTSA has allowed me to be a leader and an ally. As I look to my future, I plan to continue to fight for an equitable and just space for all. Well, that’s all from my side. Back to you, Alex, and Birds up.

– Thanks, Maren. I know that UTSA leaders are passionate about the university’s role in advancing educational opportunities for underserved communities. And it is so amazing to hear how UTSA students like you are supporting that effort for the benefit of your fellow Roadrunners and others, thanks again.