Posted on January 21, 2026 by Sean M. Wood
Mary Bartlett giving her presentation in the Tobin Center.
An “incredible” turnout of 756 students from the School of Architecture + Planning filled the H-E-B Performance Hall at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts last fall to hear a presentation by Marmon Mok Architecture Partner Mary Bartlett, AIA.
It was the first of a series called “SA + P Conversations with the Director.” A discussion with Director Michelangelo Sabatino, PhD, followed Bartlett’s talk regarding her work on the preservation and transformation of the performance center into the world-class space that it is today.
“Our objective was to create a place-based learning opportunity for our students,” Architecture and Planning Assistant Professor David Matiella said. “We had 756 students turn out, filling the main floor and part of the first balcony. Out of a school of about 900 students, that's an incredible turnout."
The Tobin is ever-present outside SA + P’s windows at One Riverwalk Place, Matiella said. Along with the Central Library, it represents one of the most important architectural expressions in downtown San Antonio, he added.
Bartlett was joined by Marmon Mok partner and UT San Antonio alumnus Angel Garcia, AIA. “He has mentored students as a design juror for the architecture program and led the establishment of an endowed scholarship,” Matiella said. “I told the students, ‘He is you in a few decades: someone who started as a student studying architecture at UTSA and established a long and meaningful career doing what he loves.’ One young woman noted that Mary Bartlett was the first female architect she had heard give such a talk. It was truly inspiring for them to see their academic goals played out in a professional setting."
The School of Architecture + Planning has been downtown for years, but a freeway separated it from the core of the central business district. The School’s new address now puts it in the heart of everything.
"Moving downtown means students connect with the context of the built environment more directly,” Matiella said. “They can't help but notice the great buildings, public and private spaces, the beauty, and even the complex urban conditions. It's inescapable, and it informs their perspective as future architects. They feel the immense responsibility incumbent upon us—that, as Winston Churchill once said, “we shape our buildings; thereafter they shape us.” Our students are more exposed to the density, connectivity, and synergy of all the architectural decisions that shape our great city."
Another exciting part of the evening was being able to announce a $25,000 Marmon Mok Architecture Endowed Scholarship to support undergraduate students pursuing a degree in architecture.
More conversations are planned as the new semester begins. SA+P faculty invite the community to join these impactful discussions to learn more about the future of architecture in San Antonio, the degree programs offered at UT San Antonio, and opportunities to get involved as both our city and our university move forward.
— Sean M. Wood
