Meet Your Admissions Counselor

Jessica was born and raised in Houston, Texas, and is a product of Catholic school education from kindergarten through high school. In 2003, she moved to San Antonio and began her career working with both high school and college students in education. In December 2015, she graduated from the University of the Incarnate Word with a master’s degree in Organizational Development.

Three random things about Jessica:

• I collect crosses for my cross wall at home.
• My favorite colors are red and black.
• I’m secretly addicted to watching foreign crime series on Netflix.

For me, at UIW, the WORD is Connectivity! There are so many opportunities for students to connect with other people on the UIW campus. In the process, you will develop your own connection to the school which will help you as you work toward your academic goals. I tell students all the time: get to know your professors and administrators, get involved, build those lasting relationships. College will be what you make of it; you’ll get out of it what you put in to it—so put your best foot forward! And if you’re not sure where to start, come see me, and I’ll be glad to help you!

• Texas Panhandle
• West Texas

Steven was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, and is a graduate of McCollum High School. In December 2015, he graduated with his Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in Management from the University of the Incarnate Word. He is now pursuing his Master of Business Administration.

Three random things about Steven:

• I love watching anime.
• I used to be a DJ!
• I love playing guitar.

For me, at UIW, the WORD is Future! The reason I chose to get my undergraduate degree, specifically from UIW, was to better my future. UIW showed me the dedication they have from the staff and faculty to help me achieve my goals. It’s true: The first key to success starts here, with UIW.

• Midwest (Out-of-State)
• Northeast (Out-of-State)
• Northwest (Out-of-State)
• Southeast (Out-of-State)
• Southwest (Out-of-State)
• Other Out-of-State Territories

Jacob was raised in Carrizo Springs, Texas. He is a graduate of Carrizo Spring High School. After high school, he attended the University of Texas at San Antonio where he obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Communications in 2020.

Three random facts about Jacob:

• I am a video game enthusiast.
• I try to go to multiple concerts a month.
• My dream vacation is Japan.

For me, here at UIW, the WORD is Community! Our top priority is to serve our students and our community. I am so thankful to be a part of an institution that does everything it can to provide for and serve its students, faculty and staff. If you ever need anything, we will always do our best to serve you!

• Alamo Heights
• East of San Antonio
• Incarnate Word High School
• Judson ISD
• Northside ISD
• St. Anthony Catholic High School
• St. Mary's Hall
• San Antonio-area Catholic Schools
• Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD
• South of San Antonio

Emmanuel is a native to San Antonio, Texas. He graduated from Central Catholic High School, and he is a proud alumnus of the University of the Incarnate Word Class of 2020. He obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Psychology. Emmanuel is currently pursing a Master of Arts in Higher Education.

Three random things about Emmanuel:

• I've played lacrosse for over 11 years.
• I'm a huge DC Comics fan!
• I plan to visit all 63 National Parks in the United States.

For me, at UIW, the WORD is Passion! As an alumnus, I found that my experience as a work-study, student and club-sports athlete helped me establish a passion for UIW. The faculty and staff are ready to help students in any way possible, and our student body creates a positive experience for everyone. From our admissions counselors to our diverse student workers, UIW is eager and ready to show you what makes us unique. Our passion for this university and for what we do will automatically make you feel like you belong in the Nest!

• Boerne ISD
• Del Rio
• Eagle Pass
• El Paso
• Laredo
• New Braunfels ISD
• North of San Antonio

Alissa was born and raised in San Antonio and graduated from Harlandale High School. She recently graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Exercise and Sports Science from St. Mary's University in December 2023. She plans on pursuing her master's degree with a concentration in Student Services in Higher Education at UIW.

Three random things about Alissa:

• I'm a cat mom.
• My favorite artists are Olivia Rodrigo and Pitbull.
• Carrie Underwood and I are sorority sisters.

For me, at UIW, the WORD is Committed! Our faculty, staff and students are committed to achieving academic excellence and better serving their community. Additionally, our admissions team is committed to helping you find your home at the nest and assisting with any questions you may have!

• Beaumont
• Corpus Christi
• East Texas
• Edgewood ISD
• Gulf Coast
• Harlandale ISD
• Houston
• South San Antonio ISD
• Southside ISD
• Southwest ISD

Adriana was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, and graduated from South San Antonio High School. She completed her education journey as a first-generation college graduate from the University of the Incarnate Word, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts. She is now preparing to pursue her master's degree at UIW.

Three random things about Adriana:

1. I used to be a summer camp counselor.
2. My favorite sweet treats are frozen yogurt and boba tea.
3. My favorite movie is Labyrinth.

For me, at UIW, the WORD is Compassion! My experience at UIW was enriched by valuable resources, dedicated professors and a supportive community. From day one, the faculty and staff show genuine care and foster meaningful connections. This exceptional education and nurturing environment have equipped me to embrace leadership roles and serve any opportunities that arise.

• Austin
• Central Texas
• Dallas/Fort Worth
• Northeast ISD
• Waco

Lucia was born and raised in Laredo, Texas, and graduated from Lyndon B. Johnson High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in English and Sociology from Texas A&M International University in 2021 and is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Public Administration at TAMIU.

Three random things about Lucia:

1. I collect rubber duckies.
2. I have never broken a bone or gotten a speeding ticket.
3. One time I finished a semester’s worth of math homework in one week, so I didn’t have to pay for the $100 online access code.

For me, at UIW, the WORD is Unity. Our campus prides itself in bringing together students from all walks of life. Whether you join one of our nearly 90 student organizations or take part in campus events, you can find many ways to stay united at the nest!

• Rio Grande Valley
• San Antonio ISD

Ali was born and raised in Laredo, Texas, and is a graduate of John B. Alexander High School. Ali graduated from Texas A&M International University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication.

Three random things about Ali:

• My dog's name is Ben Taylor. Yes, he has a middle name.
• I am a Bad Bunny and Olivia Rodrigo stan.
• I can eat dim sum for every meal! Yummy!

For me, at UIW, the WORD is Opportunity! The opportunities UIW has to offer are endless. You may find opportunities as a student or as a professional in your chosen career once you are a UIW alum. During your undergraduate journey, you will find many opportunities to be a leader, lend a helping hand and/or build a rapport with your professors, peers and administrators.

Sofia was born and raised in Laredo, Texas, and is product of a Catholic education from kindergarten to college. Sofia's UIW journey started in 2014, where she attained a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with a concentration in International Business and a minor in Communication Arts in 2018. In December 2023, Sofia graduated with a Master of Arts in Communication Arts. Throughout her time at UIW, Sofia was involved with various organizations and worked on campus. She also studied abroad as an undergrad and grad student.

Three random things about Sofia:

• I absolutely LOVE traveling. The next place I want to visit outside of the U.S.: Greece.
• I am a big time '80s movies and music fan! I believe I should have been born in the '80s.
• I studied abroad in Heidelberg, Germany, and Strasbourg, France.

For me, here at UIW, the WORD is Family! UIW is my home and the people who have been part of my journey have become my family. The faculty and staff at UIW are like no other and genuinely care for students. Various departments on campus do their very best to make students feel seen and heard, and encourage engagement throughout campus. UIW offers a welcoming environment that gives students the opportunity to connect with amazing people who work hard to make your experience a great one.

Candice is a native San Antonian and graduated from Karen Wagner High School. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and a minor in Biology from the University of the Incarnate Word. She began her journey in education as an environmental educator in New Hampshire.

Three random facts about Candice:

• I build and mod mechanical keyboards.
• I love indie music and collecting records.
• I love Doc Martens. Catch me wearing them with every outfit!

For me, at UIW, the WORD is Pride! My time at UIW shaped me into who I am today. I was able to receive an amazing education while being given opportunities to serve and lead in my community. I strive to embody UIW's core values of service and education in whatever I do. My experiences make me a proud Cardinal, and I hope you will be too!

Phillip J. Rangel was born and raised in California's San Joaquin Valley. A retired U.S. Air Force veteran, Phillip served for 28 years, with his last decade as a member of the North American Aerospace Defense Command and U.S. Northern Command Inspector General (NORAD/USNORTHCOM). He is a two-time graduate of the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW), earning a B.A. in Criminal Justice with a minor in Sociology in 2017 and an M.S. in Organizational Development and Leadership in 2018. Currently, Phillip is a Ph.D. Candidate studying Organizational Leadership and Adult Education at UIW’s Dreeben School of Education. He served as President for UIW’s Student Veterans of America (SVA) Chapter during the 2022-2023 academic year and was a member of the UIW Alumni Association Board from 2018 to 2020 and one of the five founding board members of UIW’s Parent’s Association in 2016 and 2017.

Three random facts about Phillip:

• I play a lot of golf.
• My favorite movies are Top Gun: Maverick and Gladiator.
• I enjoy being outdoors.

For me, here at UIW, the WORD is Service! Serving others transcends my personal ambitions. It is the epitome of being a leader. It is to uplift those around us and who we encounter. It is about humility, empathy and a deep sense of responsibility to those in our community. By serving others we elevate our own purpose by building our own legacy of caring. It inspires growth and strengthens the essence of our community. That is UIW!

Robin was born and raised in San Antonio and graduated from Oliver Wendell Holmes High school. She moved to Victoria, Texas, to pursue her bachelor's degree and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Houston-Victoria in 2020. She is currently pursing her master's degree in human resource management and is expected to graduate in December 2024.

Three random things about Robin:

• I studied abroad in Beijing, China, and climbed the Great Wall!
• I have three cats and plan to rescue more.
• I am a big fan of Snoopy.

For me, here at UIW, the WORD is Innovate! UIW strives to build the next generation of innovative individuals who help build communities and serve those who need it most.

Gabriella was born and raised here in San Antonio, Texas. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Communication from Angelo State University in San Angelo, Texas. She is currently pursuing her master's degree in Higher Education Administration from Texas Tech University and is set to graduate in August of 2022.

Three random things about Gabriella:

• I am a big fan of the San Antonio Spurs! Go Spurs Go!
• My favorite drink from Starbucks is a grande salted caramel cold foam cold brew.
• Justin Bieber follows me on Twitter!

For me, here at UIW, the WORD is Serve! Our top priority is to serve our students and our community. I am so thankful to be a part of an institution that does everything they can to provide for and serve their students, faculty and staff. If you ever need anything, we will always do our best to serve you!

Victoria was born and raised in Laredo, Texas, and is a product of Catholic school education from kindergarten through high school. Victoria graduated from Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas, with a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and a minor in Communication. Victoria pursued her journey in furthering her education and graduated with a Master of Arts in Communication Arts from UIW in May of 2023.

Three random things about Victoria:

• I am a huge football girly!
• I can quote almost every line from the movie Nacho Libre.
• I am a dog mom.

For me, here at UIW, the WORD is Team! Just as in any team there is, you find a sense of belonging. Here at UIW, we are united as we continue to strive in making an impact not only within our university community, but the community as a whole. The faculty, staff, and all administrators truly care and value each student as we encourage them to get involved here on campus, make lasting connections and excel in their education journey. I am beyond thankful to be a part of this wonderful TEAM!