Our Strong Foundation
For over 40 years, the UTSA Pre-freshman Engineering Program (PREP) has empowered young students to believe in themselves by experiencing interesting and challenging STEM content. PREP, founded by UTSA Professor Emeritus, Dr. Manuel Berriozábal, a life-long champion of mathematics education and student success, has demonstrated powerful impact on the academic and professional direction of thousands of participants. PREP is designed to offer culturally relevant, research based instruction in mathematics, physical science, engineering design, and problem solving. Our goal is reach a broad range of young learners, particularly those from historically underrepresented backgrounds or low-income households.
While the hallmark of PREP continues to consist of highly engaging summer classes for 6th-12th grade students, we are expanding our efforts to establish professional development opportunities for locally based K-12 teachers and providing STEM engagement activities for younger students. With consistent support and motivation at home, generous donors (Drs. Mathur and Kamat; and others) and initiatives like PREP, we can support the ideals of social mobility and equity, creating a professional workforce that closely aligns with the diversity of the entire community.
Manuel and María Berriozábal
Manuel and María Berriozábal have dedicated their lives to ensuring an equitable future for all in their beloved city of San Antonio.For more than 40 years, the Berriozábals have been affecting positive change throughout our community.From creating accessible education programming such as the Prefreshman Engineering Program (PREP) at UTSA to amplifying the voices of others through political activism, their countless contributions have improved the lives of thousands—ranging in all ages and from all underserved communities.
Dr. Manny and Mrs. Mária Berriozábal
Our sincere gratitude to Dr. Manny and Mrs. Mária Berriozábal for their shared insight and wisdom as we guide the PREP program so that it may continue motivating and preparing the young people in the San Antonio community.
