Texas A&M University-San Antonio once again celebrated the achievements of its students during the University’s signature Zoo Ring Day on Wednesday, April 8, at the San Antonio Zoo. Now in its fourth year, the event continues to highlight the unique partnership between A&M-San Antonio and the San Antonio Zoo, reinforcing a shared commitment to education, community engagement, and student success.
In attendance was Debora Garcia-Rivera, who was awarded a Herff Jones scholarship to help cover the cost of her ring. Garcia is a Spanish major who wants to work as a middle school or high school teacher after she graduates in fall 2027.
“I really like working with children,” she said. “When I applied for my ring, I started thinking a lot about my own journey from high school to A&M-San Antonio. It was always my first option. So today is really special for me. It means a lot to officially get my ring. And now that I’m going to graduate next year, I’m so excited about the future.”
As part of the tradition, 198 student ring boxes were placed inside the jaguar enclosure, where they were watched over by B'alam, one of the most beloved animals of A&M-San Antonio students. Dozens of students who will soon receive their rings, along with family, friends, and University leadership, gathered to honor the students’ accomplishments. Visitors were treated to a special sight as B’alam stepped onto the chest and brushed along its surface, creating a moment many in attendance viewed as a symbolic gesture of blessing.
“We are incredibly proud of our students and all they have accomplished to reach this milestone. Traditions like Zoo Ring Day reflect the spirit and unity that define Texas A&M University-San Antonio. Having their rings blessed by B’alam connects our graduates to something larger than themselves—our community and the legacy they now carry forward,” said A&M-San Antonio President Salvador Hector Ochoa.
Before students receive their rings during the on-campus ceremony, each ring is placed inside a handcrafted wooden chest, created by South San High School’s Practicum of Construction Management students. The chest is then placed inside B’alam’s habitat as part of this ceremonial moment, ahead of graduating students receiving their rings.
“We are honored to continue our partnership with Texas A&M University-San Antonio in celebrating the accomplishments of these outstanding students, who represent the next generation of leaders and conservation advocates," said Chris Ozimek, Vice President of Marketing at San Antonio Zoo. "At San Antonio Zoo, our mission is rooted in education and conservation, and this special tradition, centered around the iconic presence of B’alam the jaguar, reflects the powerful connection we share. Together, we highlight a journey that bridges wildlife and workforce, where the jaguar not only symbolizes a thriving future for wildlife but also embodies the spirit and potential of A&M-San Antonio students as they embark on their professional journey."
As part of the ceremony, the ring chest was displayed within the Neotropica habitat, beneath the Pantera Walk. After B’alam looks over the rings, they are taken to the Torre de Esperanza dome ahead of the on-campus ring ceremony, where the Spirit of the Jaguar will be sealed into each ring at sunrise.