UTSA community comes together in reflection following Hill Country flooding disaster

JULY 9, 2025 -UTSA will offer two opportunities this week for students, faculty and staff to join together to reflect on the Hill Country flooding tragedy and remember those from our campus community who have been lost or impacted.

A virtual moment of reflection will take place at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 9. Then, at noon on Friday, July 11, an on-campus reflection will be held.

These events will allow the campus community to honor Dr. Katheryn Eads, senior lecturer in the Department of Psychology, and Reese Manchaca, an architecture student in the Klesse College of Engineering and Integrated Design, both of whom are victims of the flooding, as well as Ella Cahill, a management student in the Alvarez College of Business, who remains unaccounted for as search and recovery efforts continue.

"It is important for us have the opportunity to gather as a UTSA community to reflect on this devastating tragedy, pay tribute to the lives and contributions of those we've lost, and process the overwhelming news that has so greatly impacted our campuses," said LT Robinson, senior vice provost for student affairs and dean of students. "Let us also draw strength from one another. Together, we can begin the healing and provide the comfort and support that is so important during these challenging times."

Many UTSA faculty and staff members are also dealing with potential damage or destruction of their homes or properties in the Kerrville area.

To support each other during this difficult time, special drop-in hours will be offered by Wellness 360 Counseling for students who are struggling with grief and loss. Faculty and staff resources are available through the Employee Assistance Program.

This week, the Monument Lights and Student Union lights on the Main Campus will glow solemn white in recognition of all those from across the region who have been impacted by the tragedy.