Posted on December 15, 2021 by Rory Dew

DECEMBER 15, 2021 – On Saturday, December 11, Margie and Bill Klesse College of Engineering and Integrated Design (Klesse College) celebrated the graduation of 294 students. 247 undergraduate students, 36 graduate students, and 11 doctoral students completed their degree requirements this semester and became the latest Roadrunner alums.

“Graduation is always a wonderful day, and this semester was no different,” remarked Dr. JoAnn Browning, Klesse College’s dean. “I am proud of what each of our graduating Roadrunners has accomplished and look forward to seeing the successes of their professional careers.”

Graduating Roadrunner Quinten Kocian remarked “it feels like a huge accomplishment and a fantastic closing to an exciting chapter in my life. I’m excited for the future and to make contributions with what I have learned at UTSA.” Kocian, who enrolled in UTSA’s B.S. in Electrical Engineering after stints at the University of the Incarnate Word and Northwest Vista College, now looks forward to his newly secured role as a Cross-functional Rotation Program Engineer at National Instruments.

Kocian studied full-time while working as a Student Engineer at Southwest Research Institute and advises current and future Roadrunners to be forward-thinking throughout their degree. “You are in school to learn, but the goal is to one day have a career. Start as early as you can in pursuing career development opportunities such as research or internships. It may be a bit daunting at first, but it will help out in the long run.”

Preston Tow, who also graduated with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering, enrolled at UTSA as a first-time freshman after graduating from local Johnson High School. He believes his time at UTSA has equipped him with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed as a recently hired Network Engineer at AT&T’s Technology Development Program. “The most rewarding components of my pursuit were developing the skills and means necessary to be successful academically and professionally,” remarked Tow. “I have been exposed to so many various ideas and concepts that have opened my mind to devising creative and unique solutions to problems”

Crystal Wright, who graduated with a B.S. in Architecture, said reaching graduation made her feel very accomplished, “it took a long time to get here to this point, but I’m very glad!” Wright entered UTSA as a transfer student, having previously completed associate degrees in hospitality, fitness and food management at the Air Force Community College, and computer drafting and design at Texas State Technical College in Harlingen. Her advice for future Roadrunners, take academic courses seriously and make sure you leverage the tools provided. Wright has secured employment as an Architectural Intern in San Antonio.

Klesse College extends warm wishes and congratulations to each of our graduating Roadrunners. Best of luck in your future endeavors, and we hope you will be engaged members of the UTSA community for many years to come.

— Rory Dew