In January 2024, UTSA Athletics implemented the Rowdy Recognition program to recognize deserving staff members for their outstanding efforts.
Four awards are presented each month, with nominations and voting coming from all full-time staff members. The awards are based on four of the University of Texas at San Antonio's core values: Excellence (Spirit of the Roadrunner), Innovation (Breakthrough Beak), Collaboration (Master of the Marathon) and Integrity (Moral Meep).
FEBRUARY 2024 RECIPIENTS
Spirit of the Roadrunner: Katie Meyers, Creative Services
From the nomination: Katie is the definition of excellence. Since starting in October, Katie has completely transformed the UTSA Creative Department and, along with her team, has transformed the UTSA Athletics visual branding and social media presence. In addition, she has taken on the responsibility of managing UTSA's broadcast efforts while that position is vacant, working incredibly hard to get the RACE control room up and running, fully staffed and make sure broadcasts get on the air despite challenges with facility upgrades to baseball and softball. Her work-ethic and commitment is second to none.
Breakthrough Beak: Katie Fleming (Compliance) & Angelica Barrera (Academics) – Student-Athlete Book Process
From the nomination: Katie & Angie did a phenomenal job revamping the book process for our student athletes. On multiple occasions, our student-athlete expressed so much gratitude and praise for their hard work. They worked overtime on the weekends & late nights make sure orders were placed, materials were arriving on time, and any issues that needed troubleshooting were done in a timely fashion.
Master of the Marathon: Luis Plascencia, Information Technology
From the nomination: Luis is the master collaborator within the UTSA Athletics Department. He works with everyone to help them find solutions to a wide variety of issues. He always has a positive attitude and a helpful nature. He receives calls at all hours and is always willing to jump in and help.
Moral Meep: Karen Aston, Women's Basketball
From the nomination: Karen runs her program with extreme integrity and sets an example for all within UTSA Athletics of how to do things the right way. Her program continues to set records every season at UTSA. Karen’s student-athletes represent the UTSA Athletics program extremely well and exemplify why we do what we do.
JANUARY 2024 RECIPIENTS
Spirit of the Roadrunner: Matt Schmidt, Equipment
From the nomination: Matt is an absolute rockstar. He manages five of the more labor‐intensive sports and does it with a smile on his face, regardless of season. He goes above and beyond to ensure each of his sports receive quality coverage.
Breakthrough Beak: Ashley Poronsky (Development) and Kyle Stephens (Communications), Hall of Fame Project
From the nomination: Ashley and Kyle put in a tremendous amount of work leading the charge to create the UTSA Athletics Hall of Fame and execute the first‐ever event this fall. The creation of this event is an important step in the growth of UTSA Athletics and is an innovation that will last forever. They should be recognized for going above and beyond to make a meaningful and lasting impact that recognizes the history of UTSA Athletics.
Master of the Marathon: Sherman Corbett, Business
From the nomination: Sherman Corbett works behind the scenes without seeking any glory for guiding our coaches and staff in their efforts to meet their budget and understand processes. Sherman has been at every home football game and Final Four event, working in operations. This means many meetings over many months for planning. If you ask anyone in the Business Office, he is the best boss anyone could ask for. He's always willing to listen and advise, whether it's about work or personal life.
Moral Meep: Nikki McGovern, Business
From the nomination: Nikki has the highest standard of professionalism. Her work-ethic is phenomenal. She is always willing to help and does it promptly. Her character is always positive. She works with confidential information and I'm always assured that it is handled with high integrity. We are lucky to have Nikki.
