Launchpad: Voices of UT San Antonio

About Launchpad: Voices of UT San Antonio

Launchpad: Voices of Innovation explores the bold new chapter in higher education. This podcast brings you front-row access to the voices who are shaping the future of The University of Texas at San Antonio and the world. Produced by UT San Antonio's Office of University Strategic Communications, Launchpad features candid conversations with university leaders and faculty about innovative research and collaborative breakthroughs inspired by their personal stories. This is the beginning. This is the launchpad.

Publisher

UT San Antonio

Category

education

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

10 Sept 2025

Latest episode

2 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

16 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   2 Sept 2026

   Episode 15: How 4,000-Year-Old Artifacts Act as Portals to the Past

   Can we travel back in time without a time machine? In this episode of Launchpad, host John Elizondo sits down with Dr. Rebecca Bria, an assistant professor of anthropology at UT San Antonio, to explore how modern archaeology brings ancient history to life. Dr. Bria shares stories from her research in Highland Peru, where she studies early agropastoral communities, ancient religious practices, and the ways past societies navigated cultural transformations over thousands of years. Along the way, she emphasizes the value of engaging respectfully with local cultures and learning from the contemporary farming communities living alongside these historical sites. Beyond traditional excavation, Dr. Bria details an innovative project funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities that uses virtual reality to make ancient history accessible anywhere. Collaborating with local communities in Peru and UT San Antonio alumni, her team is developing an interactive VR video game that allows users to step through time portals, reconstruct ancient artifacts, and experience 4,000 years of Andean history firsthand. Tune in to discover how immersive technology, collaborative research, and archaeological fieldwork are reshaping our connection to the past. 00:00 – Podcast Intro & Guest Teaser 01:21 – Dr. Bria's Archaeological Research in Peru 02:39 – Archeology vs. Pop Culture Myths (Indiana Jones) & Focus on Ancient Farming 05:16 – "Time Traveling" Moments & Ritual Payments to the Past 08:11 – Navigating to Hualcayan & Hiking the Cordillera Blanca 10:14 – Overcoming Language Barriers in the Field 11:53 – Respectful Travel and Learning from Local Communities 14:06 – Developing the Virtual Reality Archaeology Game 16:55 – Collaboration with Students & Community Involvement in Game Design 20:52 – Field School & Study Abroad Opportunities for UT San Antonio Students 22:38 – Stay connected with UT San Antonio About Our Guest: Dr. Rebecca Bria is an assistant professor of anthropology at the University of Texas at San Antonio. She specializes in Andean archaeology, digital archaeology, and early social, economic, and religious transformations in Highland Peru. Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to hit Subscribe so you never miss an episode of Launchpad! For more updates and the latest news, visit news.utsa.edu (news.utsa.edu). About UT San Antonio The University of Texas at San Antonio (UT San Antonio) is a nationally recognized, top-tier public research university that unites the power of higher education, biomedical discovery and healthcare within one visionary institution. As the third-largest research university in Texas and a Carnegie R1-designated institution, UT San Antonio is a model of access and excellence – advancing knowledge, social mobility and public health across South Texas and beyond.

2. 

   12 Aug 2026

   Episode 14: Discovering the anatomy of a volcano

   How close is too close to an active volcano? In this episode of Launchpad, host John Elizondo sits down with Dr. Alan Whittington, Professor of Earth and Planetary Sciences at UT San Antonio, to explore the high-stakes science of volcanology. From dodging superheated pyroclastic density currents traveling over 100 mph to scooping up glowing red-hot lava samples in the field, Dr. Whittington offers an inside look at what it takes to study Earth’s most formidable natural phenomena. The discussion dives deep into the hidden mechanics of eruptions, unpacking how lava viscosity behaves like everything from ketchup to peanut butter, and why razor-sharp volcanic ash is far more dangerous than flowing magma. Dr. Whittington also uncovers the surprise volcanic history hidden right beneath Texas soil and explains how his team at UT San Antonio’s HAMSTER Lab is using experimental rock physics to solve mysteries on Earth, the Moon, and beyond. 00:00 – Podcast Intro & Guest Teaser 00:57 – Dr. Whittington’s experience studying volcanoes around the world 02:22 – Volcano types: Shield volcanoes vs. stratovolcanoes 05:07 – Seeing an active eruption in person for the first time 06:14 – Why volcanic research and eruption signals matter 08:14 – Collecting live, hot lava samples in the field 10:18 – Volcanic ash hazards and pyroclastic density currents 13:02 – Explaining lava viscosity: From ketchup to peanut butter 15:47 – Texas geology: Ancient volcanoes along the Balcones fault 18:54 – Inside the HAMSTER Lab: Rock physics and planetary volcanoes 21:20 – Stay connected with UT San Antonio About Our Guest: Dr. Alan Whittington is a professor in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at the University of Texas at San Antonio. With over two decades of experience researching volcanoes across the globe, his work focuses on experimental rheology, heat and mass transfer in rocks, lava flow dynamics, and planetary geology. Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to hit Subscribe so you never miss an episode of Launchpad! For more updates and the latest news, visit news.utsa.edu. About UT San Antonio The University of Texas at San Antonio (UT San Antonio) is a nationally recognized, top-tier public research university that unites the power of higher education, biomedical discovery and healthcare within one visionary institution. As the third-largest research university in Texas and a Carnegie R1-designated institution, UT San Antonio is a model of access and excellence – advancing knowledge, social mobility and public health across South Texas and beyond.

3. 

   22 Jul 2026

   Episode 13: Exploring the Unknown in Antarctica

   In this episode of Launchpad, world-renowned sea ice expert and UT San Antonio Associate Professor Stephen Ackley takes us deep into the frozen unknown of the polar regions. Drawing from 12 expeditions to Antarctica and four to the Arctic, Ackley shares thrilling firsthand accounts of surviving the planet's most extreme environments. From dodging curious polar bears in whiteout conditions to building isolated ice stations on drifting floes, he offers an intimate look at what it truly takes to conduct research at the bottom of the world. Beyond the wild adventures, Ackley breaks down the critical science behind sea ice and why these remote regions matter to us all. He explains how polar ice acts as a protective blanket for the ocean, fuels complex marine ecosystems, and drives global climate patterns. Discover how shifting Antarctic conditions influence ocean currents across the globe and why changes happening thousands of miles away can directly trigger severe, freezing weather events right here in Texas. 00:00 – Podcast Intro & Guest Teaser 00:51 – Introducing Stephen Ackley 01:21 - Vietnam draft notice leads to polar research 05:14 – Understanding sea ice properties 07:06 – Sea ice forms in the summer? 07:52 – Local ecology & wildlife dependencies on sea ice 08:55 – Observing seals and penguins in their element 10:27 – Inside the Ice Station Weddell experience 11:19 – Challenges of operating in the polar regions 13:08 – Is that a plane? No, it's a polar bear!! 14:25 – Arctic vs. Antarctic research logistics 16:15 – The Story Behind "Ackley Point" 17:52 – How polar sea ice affects global climate 20:08 – Recent changes & trends in Antarctic sea ice 21:10 – Closing Remarks 21:36 - Stay Connected with UT San Antonio About Our Guest: Stephen Ackley is an Associate Professor of Research at the University of Texas at San Antonio and a leading expert in sea ice physics and polar oceanography. Over a career spanning more than five decades, including 30 years as a senior scientist at the U.S. Army Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory, he has led numerous groundbreaking expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctic. In recognition of his significant contributions to polar research, the U.S. Board on Geographic Names designated "Ackley Point" in Antarctica in his honor. Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to hit Subscribe so you never miss an episode of Launchpad! For more updates and the latest news, visit news.utsa.edu (news.utsa.edu). About UT San Antonio The University of Texas at San Antonio (UT San Antonio) is a nationally recognized, top-tier public research university that unites the power of higher education, biomedical discovery and healthcare within one visionary institution. As the third-largest research university in Texas and a Carnegie R1-designated institution, UT San Antonio is a model of access and excellence – advancing knowledge, social mobility and public health across South Texas and beyond.

4. 

   1 Jul 2026

   Episode 12: Chasing the wild and the science of survival

   What goes through your mind when you look down and see fresh Sumatran tiger tracks circling your campsite? For most people, it’s a cue to leave—but for a wildlife biologist, it’s just another day at the office. From tracking 150-pound mountain lions through the snow on muleback to navigating the remote, crocodile-infested swamps of Indonesia, fieldwork isn't just a job; it’s an unpredictable, high-stakes frontier that keeps scientists on their toes across the globe. In this episode of Launchpad, host John Elizondo sits down with Dr. Kyle Shaney, an assistant professor at the University of Texas at San Antonio. As a National Geographic Explorer, Dr. Shaney’s passion for conversation goes far deeper than just tracking. He unpacks the fascinating world of apex predators, explaining how traditional ecological knowledge from local guides can keep you alive in remote jungles. Tune in to learn what to do if you encounter an aggressive cougar, what shocking dynamics happen at a mountain lion kill site, how a hammock can save you from microscopic threats, and how he survived eight days alone navigating a labyrinth of freezing rivers in roadless Alaskan wilderness. 00:00 – Podcast Intro & Guest Teaser 01:14 – Dr. Kyle Shaney's Background & Path to Wildlife Ecology 03:04 – Investigating Mountain Lion Kill Sites & First Captures 05:09 – The Step-by-Step Process of Tranquilizing & Collaring Cougars 07:17 – Misconceptions & Safety Protocols for Wild Mountain Lion Encounters 09:10 – Kill Site Dynamics, Kleptoparasitism, and Ecosystem Camera Traps 14:24 – Securing a National Geographic Grant to Study Sunda Gharial Crocodiles 17:22 – Experiences and Benefits within the National Geographic Explorer Program 18:10 – Shaney's First "Welcome to the Jungle" moment 19:52 – Utilizing Traditional Ecological Knowledge 22:06 – Essential Jungle Survival Gear: A Hammock 23:25 – Surviving Solo in Alaska: Collecting Bison Collars & Winter Expeditions 28:46 – Expanding Research into Borneo & the Pan American Bird Migration Project 31:55 – Wildlife and Wilderness Science YouTube Channel 33:29 – Stay Connected with UT San Antonio About Our Guest: Dr. Kyle Shaney is an expert in wildlife research, biodiversity, and conservation biology. As a National Geographic Explorer, his research focuses on predator-prey dynamics, endangered species preservation like the Sunda Gharial crocodile, and mapping the global threats facing migratory birds. His efforts aim to advance science communication, recruit the next generation of researchers, and inspire the public to appreciate the natural world. Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to hit Subscribe so you never miss an episode of Launchpad! For more updates and the latest news, visit news.utsa.edu (news.utsa.edu). About UT San Antonio The University of Texas at San Antonio (UT San Antonio) is a nationally recognized, top-tier public research university that unites the power of higher education, biomedical discovery and healthcare within one visionary institution. As the third-largest research university in Texas and a Carnegie R1-designated institution, UT San Antonio is a model of access and excellence – advancing knowledge, social mobility and public health across South Texas and beyond.

5. 

   17 Jun 2026

   Episode 11: Does our past help us prepare for the next 100 year flood?

   If Texas summers bring severe droughts, then what happens when the skies finally open up? It turns out the answer is flash floods—and a lot of water. But before you assume our infrastructure is completely safe, these extreme weather events might actually be the most important, undervalued challenge keeping engineers on their toes across the state of Texas. In this episode of Launchpad, host John Elizondo sits down with Dr. Marcio Giacomoni, a civil and environmental engineering professor at the University of Texas at San Antonio. As a dedicated water resources researcher, Dr. Giacomoni’s passion for urban hydrology sheds a vital light on a looming environmental and structural crisis, revealing that historical "100-year flood" benchmarks are shifting rapidly. Because our climate and city footprints are altering the natural hydrological cycle, modern infrastructure must evolve to protect both lives and local water quality. But the conversation goes far deeper than just rain. Dr. Giacomoni unpacks the fascinating world of civil engineering, explaining how widely misunderstood systems—from massive subterranean flood control tunnels under the city to hidden limestone topography—provide a massive safety service completely for free. Tune in to learn why Bexar County remains a national leader in flood fatalities, what shocking data his team discovered (and didn't discover) while testing urban runoff pollutants in the Edwards Aquifer, and how your heavy pickup truck's tires might actually turn into floating buoys the next time you encounter a low water crossing. 00:00 – Podcast Intro & Guest Teaser 00:39 – Episode Overview: "Preparing for the next 100-year flood" 01:02 – Introducing Dr. Marcio Giacomoni and his journey from Brazil to Texas 02:55 – Defining Flash Flood Alley: Topography, geology, and moisture 05:52 – The sloping geology of San Antonio and early flood control history 06:21 – Olmos Dam, reservoirs, and the engineering behind the San Antonio River Walk 06:48 – Subterranean flood control tunnels: Diverting catastrophic storms under downtown 08:31 – Testing the 1998 flood and keeping the River Walk alive during severe droughts 10:35 – Firsthand survival: Dr. Giacomoni's experience in the July 4th Hill Country flood 12:50 – Redefining the "100-Year Flood" and managing return periods in engineering 14:00 – State alert systems, meteorological models, and why cell service fails during disasters 17:14 – Climate change, Hurricane Harvey, and how infrastructure design limits are shifting 19:22 – The Edwards Aquifer: How concrete alters the natural hydrological cycle 22:01 – Tracking pollutants: Suspended solids, heavy metals, and surprising parking lot runoff data 24:24 – Final safety advice: FEMA floodplain maps and the buoy myth of big truck tires at low water crossings 27:22 – Stay connected with UT San Antonio About Our Guest: Dr. Marcio Giacomoni is an expert in civil and environmental engineering, water resources, and urban hydrology. His research focuses on stormwater management, flood control optimization, and the sustainability of water resources in rapidly developing environments. His efforts aim to design resilient public infrastructure and protect vital regional ecosystems like the Edwards Aquifer. Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to hit Subscribe so you never miss an episode of Launchpad! For more updates and the latest news, visit news.utsa.edu (news.utsa.edu). About UT San Antonio The University of Texas at San Antonio (UT San Antonio) is a nationally recognized, top-tier public research university that unites the power of higher education, biomedical discovery and healthcare within one visionary institution. As the third-largest research university in Texas and a Carnegie R1-designated institution, UT San Antonio is a model of access and excellence – advancing knowledge, social mobility and public health across South Texas and beyond.

6. 

   3 Jun 2026

   Episode 10: The hidden value of the unwanted pests in your garden

   If April showers bring May flowers, then what do May flowers bring? It turns out the answer is insects—and a lot of them. But before you go grabbing a can of heavy pesticide, these tiny creatures might actually be the most important, undervalued workers keeping the entire state of Texas alive. In this episode of Launchpad, host John Elizondo sits down with Dr. Jessica Beckham, an environmental science and ecology lecturer at the University of Texas at San Antonio. As a dedicated bumblebee enthusiast and researcher, Dr. Beckham’s passion for native ecosystems sheds a vital light on a looming environmental crisis, revealing that pollinators are in steep decline everywhere we find them. Because they operate as essential keystone species, their disappearance could cause entire ecosystems to collapse. But the conversation goes far deeper than just bees. Dr. Beckham unpacks the fascinating world of entomology, explaining how widely misunderstood insects—from stinger-wielding wasps to "gross" nutrient cyclers like dung beetles and flesh flies—provide a massive environmental service completely for free. Tune in to learn why 86% of Texas agricultural land relies directly on these tiny workers, what terrifying Texas predator hunts tarantulas to feed its larvae, and how you can manage pesky mosquitoes and garden aphids by simply letting nature run its course. Timestamps 00:00 – Podcast Intro & Guest Teaser 00:15 – Episode Overview: "The value of insects and pollinators" 01:07 – Introducing Dr. Jessica Beckham and seasonal insect emergence in Texas 01:30 – The vital economic impact of pollinators on Texas agriculture 02:04 – Defining keystone species and unpacking the global pollinator decline 03:49 – Debunking bee myths: Solitary vs. social bees and sting misconceptions 05:32 – Quick tips for identifying bees and wasps in chaotic moments 06:48 – Concession stands and trash cans: Why honeybees aggregate around sugar 07:47 – The Schmidt Insect Sting Pain Index and Dr. Beckham's worst sting story 08:52 – The nightmare biology of the native Texas tarantula hawk wasp 10:45 – Rebranding hated insects: The critical value of wasps, dung beetles, and flesh flies 12:56 – Cockroach phobias and their place in the biological food web 14:07 – Managing urban mosquitoes and eliminating hidden standing water 15:38 – Entomology vocabulary: What makes a "true bug" different from an insect? 16:41 – Natural garden defense: How aphids invite helpful predators like ladybugs and lacewings 18:41 – Managing undesirable garden pests and the hornworm caterpillar relocation mantra 19:28 – Dr. Beckham’s final advice: Put down the pesticides and give insects an air high-five 20:17 – Stay connected with UT San Antonio About Our Guest: Dr. Jessica Beckham is an expert in entomology, pollinator conservation, and native ecosystems. Her research focuses on the conservation and ecology of native pollinators, particularly bumble bees, in urban and natural environments. Her efforts aim to promote biodiversity and environmental awareness through both scientific research and education. Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to hit Subscribe so you never miss an episode of Launchpad! For more updates and the latest news, visit ⁠news.utsa.edu (⁠news.utsa.edu)⁠. About UT San Antonio The University of Texas at San Antonio (UT San Antonio) is a nationally recognized, top-tier public research university that unites the power of higher education, biomedical discovery and healthcare within one visionary institution. As the third-largest research university in Texas and a Carnegie R1-designated institution, UT San Antonio is a model of access and excellence – advancing knowledge, social mobility and public health across South Texas and beyond.

7. 

   20 May 2026

   Episode 9: Is the heat stealing your youth?

   Do you ever feel like you're literally melting the second you step outside into the relentless Texas summer? It turns out that extreme heat might be doing a lot more than just making you uncomfortable—it could actually be taking years off your life. In this episode of Launchpad, host John Elizondo sits down with Dr. Jeffrey Howard from the Department of Public Health at UT San Antonio. Dr. Howard’s groundbreaking research into heat-related deaths has captured national headlines , revealing that heat has claimed more than 21,000 lives since 1999 and has quietly become America's deadliest natural disaster. But the danger goes deeper than the thermometer. Dr. Howard unpacks his fascinating research into accelerated aging, explaining how physical, emotional, and even "social" traumas trigger biological dysregulation that causes our bodies to age faster than the clock. Tune in to learn why your neighborhood's environment heavily dictates your life expectancy, what warning signs of heat illness you should never ignore, and two surprisingly simple daily habits you can adopt right now to help slow down the aging process. Timestamps 00:00 – Podcast Intro & Guest Teaser 00:12 – Episode Overview: "Is the heat stealing your youth?" 00:35 – Introducing Dr. Jeffrey Howard and discussing national statistics on extreme heat 01:13 – Dr. Howard on the steep national increase in heat deaths over the last decade 03:36 – Discussion on The New York Times feature and the lack of standardized protocols for reporting heat deaths on death certificates 05:54 – Framing heat as America’s deadliest natural disaster and its connection to climate patterns 07:19 – Regional unpreparedness 08:37 – Heat mitigation efforts (cooling centers, hydration stations, and vulnerable populations) 09:38 – Signs of heat stroke and heat-related illness to watch out for 10:14 – Dr. Howard shares a personal story about his father's traumatic injury and health trajectory 11:51 – How military veteran research and Department of Defense trauma studies connect to long-term health outcomes 13:28 – Expanding the definition of "trauma" beyond physical injury to emotional, psychological, and social trauma 15:12 – Defining social trauma (inequality, racism, segregation) 15:49 – Biological age vs. Chronological age: How environmental exposures and socioeconomic status dictate life expectancy across San Antonio neighborhoods 19:23 – Dr. Howard’s top health advice for longevity (the importance of sleep, coffee, and tea) 20:18 – Stay connected with UT San Antonio About Our Guest: Dr. Jeffrey Howard is an expert in premature mortality and accelerated aging research. His work spans from studying combat trauma and health trajectories in military veterans to examining the public health crises caused by global climate shifts. Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to hit Subscribe so you never miss an episode of Launchpad! For more updates and the latest news, visit news.utsa.edu (https://www.google.com/search?q=http://news.utsa.edu&authuser=1). About UT San Antonio The University of Texas at San Antonio (UT San Antonio) is a nationally recognized, top-tier public research university that unites the power of higher education, biomedical discovery and healthcare within one visionary institution. As the third-largest research university in Texas and a Carnegie R1-deisgnated institution, UT San Antonio is a model of access and excellence – advancing knowledge, social mobility and public health across South Texas and beyond.

8. 

   14 Jan 2026

   Episode 8: The doctor will see you now… through the algorithm?

   MATRIX AI researchers Amina Qutub, Amanda Fernandez and Mark Goldberg share insightful knowledge about artificial intelligence's role in advancing research in science and healthcare. They explain why they are optimistic for the future with this technology and how their AI research is already making an impact on society. 0:00 - Introduction 0:54 - Life lessons through experience 3:15 - Students' curiosity of AI 5:18 - The importance of critical thinking 7:52 - Building the next generation of AI developers 10:15 - Creating AI systems for all 12:06 - Exploring the use of AI in the sciences 13:25 - Improving field work research with AI 14:29 - iRemedyACT: Trauma care delivered faster 15:55 - Building AI to augment human capability 17:00 - Improving patient care with AI 19:17 - Collaborating between health and bioengineering 22:12 - Highlighting the efforts unseen 26:05 - Explore more about MATRIX 26:21 - Learn about UT San Antonio

9. 

   17 Dec 2025

   Episode 7: Why AI needs a brain (and a conscience)

   UT San Antonio and MATRIX AI researchers William Severa, Panos Markopoulos and Fidel Santamaria share insightful knowledge about neuromorphic computing and how to make artificial intelligence trustworthy. They explain the challenges of communicating these subjects and provide understanding about how this research is benefiting society.0:00 - Introduction 1:00 - The origins of intellectual curiosity 2:56 - Best advice to students 3:12 - The value of strong communication 6:09 - Answering the $64K question 7:10 - Understanding complexity of the brain 8:16- The Cocktail Party Problem 9:46 - What makes AI trustworthy? 11:04 - Connecting trustworthy AI and neuromorphic computing 12:54 - The three stages of trustworthiness for AI 15:44 - Understanding analogies and metaphors 17:52 - The “responsible optimism” of AI 20:51 - Explore more about MATRIX 21:17 - Learn about UT San Antonio

10. 

    3 Dec 2025

    Episode 6: Using AI for the greater good

    Dhireesha Kudithipudi, founder of the MATRIX AI Consortium, shares her personal story with artificial intelligence and how her upbringing inspired the formation of MATRIX. She provides insightful thoughts about the evolution of AI and explains the role MATRIX plays in elevating the use of AI in our community. 0:00 - Introduction 0:47 - Humble beginnings in India 2:27 - Childhood lessons to AI leadership 4:14 - Is AI good or bad? 7:16 - The idea of MATRIX and how it works 8:57 - How MATRIX helped SA during pandemic 10:16 - Discovering AI in every discipline 12:56 - Neuromorphic computing 101 14:40 - THOR: Why it is needed 15:46 - MATRIX’s role in our future 17:53 - Explore more about MATRIX 18:21 - Learn about UT San Antonio

11. 

    19 Nov 2025

    Launchpad Trailer

    Launchpad: Voices of UT San Antonio explores the bold new chapter in higher education. This podcast brings you front-row access to the voices who are shaping the future of The University of Texas at San Antonio and the world. Produced by UT San Antonio's Office of University Strategic Communications, Launchpad features candid conversations with university leaders and faculty about innovative research and collaborative breakthroughs inspired by their personal stories. This is the beginning. This is the launchpad.

12. 

    8 Oct 2025

    Episode 5: Unlocking Doors for the Texas Workforce

    In the fifth episode, Karl Miller Lugo, senior vice president for Advancement and Alumni Engagement at UT San Antonio, explains how integration will improve and strengthen UT San Antonio’s contributions to the Texas workforce. Lugo talks about how the university’s robust partnerships are helping students reach their full potential and how the university is building the region’s workforce today and into the future. 00:00 Intro00:17 Meet Karl Miller Lugo01:26 Karl’s background in higher education02:33 What does “advancement” means in higher ed03:42 Excitement for the new UT San Antonio05:03 How merger accelerates growth06:05 Alumni reach across Texas workforce07:50 Graduate impact on workforce in San Antonio09:32 Alumni network helps student success10:34 Giving your time to current students11:58 Donors supporting experiential learning14:18 Social mobility through education and support16:28 Future workforce growth through integration opportunities17:51 Workforce development provides immediate merger benefit19:12 Message to legacy institution alumni21:02 Closing thoughts

13. 

    1 Oct 2025

    Episode 4: Enhancing the Blueprint for Student Success

    In the fourth episode, Heather Shipley, provost and senior executive vice president for Academic Affairs at UT San Antonio, talks about the academic trajectory of the new university. Shipley highlights potential opportunities for interdisciplinary studies and career-engaged learning, and how those efforts could lead to addressing workforce development needs in healthcare, technology and more. 0:00 Intro0:17 Introducing Dr. Heather Shipley2:49 Leading the UT San Antonio’s academic mission4:04 Evolving the academic vision5:43 Creating new academic opportunities7:40 Interdisciplinary studies and incorporating health9:20 Developing a blueprint for the future10:26 Behind the scenes into building the academic vision12:45 Getting feedback from students, faculty and staff14:37 Creating relationships to build the workforce16:22 Building opportunities in downtown17:27 The value of experiential learning opportunities18:46 Reflecting on the journey19:53 Goals for the future

14. 

    24 Sept 2025

    Episode 3: Fueling Discovery and Research at UT San Antonio

    In the third episode, Jennifer Potter, senior executive vice president for research and innovation at UT San Antonio, discusses the value and outlook for the university after combining two R1 research institutions into one. From eliminating barriers to inspiring interdisciplinary research, Potter says the endless possibilities of integration will turn ambition into impact. 0:00 Intro0:48 Introducing Dr. Jennifer Potter2:10 Learning more about the Sr. Executive VP for Research & Innovation3:02 Why research is important to everyday life8:58 Interdisciplinary research explores the unknown12:06 Exploring areas of growth13:39 Preparing for future research success16:00 The benefits of eliminating barriers 17:55 Game-changing impact on students20:06 How does South Texas benefit?21:36 Looking into the future and what’s ahead

15. 

    17 Sept 2025

    Episode 2: Merging Missions for a Prosperous Future

    In the second episode, UT San Antonio President Taylor Eighmy and Francisco Cigarroa, senior executive vice president for health affairs and health system, discuss how bringing UTSA and UT Health San Antonio together as one world-class university will make lives better throughout the region. Listeners will hear how the integration will inspire exciting opportunities for collaboration in groundbreaking research and enhance the university’s role in addressing workforce needs in the city, in Texas and beyond. 0:00 Intro0:47 The new UT San Antonio3:35 Enhancing research and healthcare research8:00 Creating opportunities for collaboration11:34 Building the Texas workforce pipeline15:50 Reflecting on this monumental integration

16. 

    10 Sept 2025

    Episode 1: Building a World-Class University for South Texas

    In the series opener, UT San Antonio President Taylor Eighmy and Francisco Cigarroa, senior executive vice president for health affairs and health system, discuss how the integration of two top-tier research institutions will create a world-class university for San Antonio. Listeners will learn more about their vision for the newly-integrated university and how it is poised to bring transformational change to the San Antonio region through a growing impact on the healthcare and biosciences sector, innovative academic offerings, expanding research capabilities and greater opportunities to attract resources. 0:00 Intro0:49 The numbers behind a world-class university1:45 Meet the leader of UT San Antonio2:44 The journey to merger5:08 Creating a world-class university for San Antonio6:14 Strengthening higher education in Texas7:32 Elevating research and academics on Day 18:44 Improving healthcare and building the workforce

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