By Noland Arocha/@officialdjmenyo
Pina coladas, margaritas and a mocktail with President Matson. Texas A&M University-San Antonio’s main campus foyer transformed into a bar setting on March 23 to allow students to chat with President Matson over casual, non-alcoholic drinks.
Just three months into her position as A&M-San Antonio’s university president, Cynthia Teniente-Matson hosted her second meet and greet with students.
Many students stopped by the event between classes for a chance to enjoy a mocktail with the university president. Student Counseling and Wellness was also on hand, offering students information on the university’s counseling center.
Student Response: ‘Great idea’
“It’s a great idea because it makes the university more approachable and friendly,” said Peter Lawson, BAAS senior. “In most schools, you don’t get the chance to meet the president, so mocktails like these are great.”
Socially savvy students say it’s important to keep up the president. You never know when you may need something and it’s nice for her to know you by name, said one student.
“Its a great way to meet her, ” said mathematics senior Sean Roberson. “Some people don’t even know the president. I’ve met her a few times, but every time I get a chance to meet her I do. I’m slowly getting acquainted with her, which is good.”
President Matson confirms she enjoys social meet and greets with students.
“I’m looking for every way to engage with students,” Matson said. “I find I get most engaged with them through the digital open door where they can tweet me, send me an email (cmatson@tamusa.tamus.edu) or come on the website and put up an open post.”
Share. Help. Acknowledge. Request. Exchange.
Within her first weeks, Matson oversaw the creation of the S.H.A.R.E. form where students can communicate directly with the office of the president.
The form is simple: students fill out the online form to share their concerns or challenges, ask for help, ask for acknowledgement, request services or exchange ideas.
