Our Staff

Leadership

Lisa J. Montoya, Ph.D.

Vice Provost for Global Initiatives and Senior International Officer

Email: lisa.montoya@utsa.edu
Phone: (210) 458-7211

We advance internationalization to expand the educational and research enterprise at UTSA in support of UTSA’s strategic destinations.

John Murphy, Ph.D.

Associate Vice Provost, Global Initiatives Executive Director, UTSA Global Study Center - Italy

Email: john.murphy@utsa.edu
Phone: (210) 458-3026

Rhonda Waller, Ed.D.

Assistant Vice Provost for Global Initiatives

Email: rhonda.waller@utsa.edu
Phone: (210) 458-7241

International Student and Scholar Services

Ashley Wallace

Director, International Student and Scholar Services

Email: ashley.wallace@utsa.edu
Phone: (210) 458-8510

We assist international students and scholars during their time here at UTSA. Via in-person advising or virtual office hours, we are here to help you navigate the rules and regulations of attending university in the United States. Common topics include: immigration document processing, health insurance, internship / employment questions, enrollment matters, and extension of stay process. We also work with departments who are hiring and supporting international faculty and researchers.

Ashley Alvarez

International Student and Scholar Advisor

Email: ashley.alvarez@utsa.edu
Phone: (210) 458-7202

Uriel Laguna

International Student and Scholar Advisor

Email: uriel.laguna@utsa.edu
Phone: (210) 458-7202

Study Abroad

Megan Avellana

Director, Study Abroad

Email: megan.avellana@utsa.edu
Phone: (210) 458-4681

We advise students about UTSA’s many international opportunities. Via in-person advising or virtual office hours, we are here to guide you through the various phases of planning your ideal study abroad program. Common topics include: how transfer of credit works, funding opportunities, program features, and pre-application steps and post-acceptance procedures.

Chephren Branconier

Program Coordinator, Study Abroad

Email: chephren.branconier@utsa.edu
Phone: (210) 458-7203

Stephanie Castillo

Program Specialist, Study Abroad

Email: stephanie.castillo2@utsa.edu
Phone: (210) 458-7202

English Language Center

Blanca Pokorney

Director, English Language Center

Email: blanca.pokorney@utsa.edu
Phone: (210) 458-6136

The ELC provides academic ESL instruction and cultural orientation for English language learners who are primarily interested in pursuing degrees at UTSA and/or other U.S. institutions. Via in-person advising or virtual hours, we are here to provide advice on how to begin your studies at UTSA while improving your English proficiency. Common topics include: English Language Center Programs including Graduate Pathway and Academic English Program, Consultation on the development and implementation of English as a Second Language Programs for professional development, Personal and academic advising for international students enrolled in the English Language Center Programs, AEP and Graduate Pathway Application process, Global Connections, Coffee and Conversation, and Tutoring Services

Minako Shibazaki

Senior Program Coordinator, English Language Center

Email: minako.shibazaki@utsa.edu
Phone: (210) 458-7677

Leidy Bello

Student Development Specialist, English Language Center

Email: leidy.bellocristancho@utsa.edu
Phone: (210) 458-5801

Cristian Aldrete

Project Specialist, English Language Center

Email: cristian.aldrete@utsa.edu
Phone: (210) 458-7677

Global Engagement

Carelli De la Garza Torres

Associate Director for Global Engagement

Email: carelli.delagarzatorres@utsa.edu
Phone: (210) 458-7231

We serve the UTSA community and partners by hosting international visitors and advising on types of international academic agreements, global initiatives, and special programs. This unit is also in charge of official communications and organizing engagement events for international and globally-minded students.