UIW Recognized by City of San Antonio for Workforce Development Program

Photo Caption (L-R): Associate Provost of Strategic Outreach and Partnerships and Dean of School of Professional Studies Dr. Osman Ozturgut, San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg, SPS Asst. Dean of Student Affairs Dr. Jessica Parra and SPS Director of Enrollment Management and Outreach Teresa Villegas

University Honored for its Triple Helix Executive Leadership For Global Competitiveness Model

San Antonio – November 3, 2023 – The University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) is proud to announce that the City of San Antonio declared Thursday, November 2, 2023, as Triple Helix Executive Leadership for Global Competitiveness Day. The Triple Helix model is a workforce development program in UIW’s School of Professional Studies which is dedicated to developing a skilled workforce based on partnerships among government, higher education and industry.

As stated in the proclamation, “the collaboration and partnership of these three entities strengthens the workforce in the communities and unlocks a plethora of economic development opportunities that wouldn’t be possible individually. When we strengthen human capital, we reduce disparities and empower communities. When communities are empowered through economic development, we achieve equity and social transformation.”

“This proclamation enforces our position as a workforce development champion and leader in San Antonio and beyond,” says Dr. Osman Ozturgut, associate provost of Strategic Outreach and Partnerships and dean of the UIW School of Professional Studies. “UIW has been training a skilled and strong workforce for San Antonio for decades and this recognition provides us with more visibility. It also enhances our reputation among industry and government partners. But, most importantly, this is a recognition that shows our commitment to partnerships and collaboration. This collaboration is a win-win for everyone. It results in a skilled and adaptable workforce that can thrive in a rapidly changing job market, boosts the economy by driving innovation and productivity, and provides individuals with opportunities for meaningful and rewarding careers. Recognition of the vital importance of collaboration among government, industry and higher education in workforce development is important, for it is the key to a brighter future for us all.”

Ozturgut developed the Triple Helix model in 2012 and started it as a class in the PhD program. It has developed since then as more partnerships with government agencies, industry representatives and other higher education institutions have been formed. More than 1500 students have benefitted from the Triple Helix model in that time.

MEDIA CONTACT: Michael Valdes, Media and Public Relations Manager, Office of Communications & Brand Marketing, (210) 829-6001, (210) 422-4052 or michael.valdes@uiwtx.edu