Texas A&M University–San Antonio hosted the 10th annual Best of Both Worlds symposium on Wednesday, April 8. The event, presented by the College of Education and Human Development, brought together education experts and community leaders for a panel discussion titled, Beyond Academics: A Holistic Approach to Student Support and Success.
“It’s an important topic, as today’s students face more challenges than ever before, including navigating school, work, and personal life,” said President Salvador Hector Ochoa. “For us, collaboration is central to how we meet students where they are and ensure they receive the academic, financial, and personal support they need to succeed.”
The panel of experts included:
Drs. Lawrence Scott and Elisabeth Krimbill, both associate professors in the Department of Educator and Leadership Preparation, moderated the discussion.
“This semester's Best of Both Worlds panel focused on how we as stakeholders can consolidate our resources and information to support our students and communities,” said Scott. “We looked at how theory affects practices designed to help students achieve their full potential inside and outside the classroom.”
With panelists representing education, government, cultural centers and nonprofits, the discussion covered a variety of topics. They included educational initiatives to support student development, early signs that a student may be struggling emotionally or mentally, the role government should play in supporting mental health in schools and universities, and how strategic partnerships and collaboration can support students’ overall development.
“When we support students’ mental health and see the whole child, collaboration between schools, families, and care providers becomes the foundation for real success,” said Knudsen with Clarity Child Guidance Center.
Ochoa delivered welcoming remarks at the event, noting that 70% of A&M-San Antonio students are first-generation.
“Conversations like these are critical to students' lifelong success,” he said.
Ochoa also shared that the University is launching its strategic plan, TAMUSA 2030: All In. The focused roadmap designed to transform the campus includes initiatives that prepare students for a lifetime of well-being, success, leadership, and impact.
“Students need a space to belong and feel engaged,” he said. “They need to build community. And importantly, they need to know that we are here to help them – no matter the challenge.”
Ochoa also highlighted University programs and resources designed to support student success, including San Antonio Ready to Work,
Pathways to Success, as well as Educare San Antonio and the Public Health and Education Building, two on-campus developments opening this year.
“At A&M–San Antonio, our approach to student success recognizes students as unique individuals, balancing academics, financial stability, mental health, and a strong sense of belonging,” Ochoa said. “Through collaboration, leadership preparation, and deep community partnerships, we are building systems that remove barriers, create opportunities, and open clear pathways to achievement for the students and communities we serve.”