Dear Friends,

As we move into October, excitement is building for one of our favorite alumni traditions, the 15th Annual Two Saints and a Taco Tasting on October 22 at Saint Arnold Brewing Company. In this month's newsletter, you'll meet our event chairs and learn how a simple idea grew into a beloved alumni tradition that has supported student scholarships for 15 years. I hope you'll join us as we celebrate this milestone year and continue investing in future Celts.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for Alumni Night at the Astros! The Astros didn't come away with the win, but our recap reel shows just how much fun we had cheering on the home team together.

As we look ahead to Homecoming and Reunion Week, we're reminded that some of the strongest connections begin right here at UST and last a lifetime. We look forward to welcoming alumni celebrating reunion years, especially those whose class year ends in a 6, at our Reunion Brunch on November 7. If you'd like to help spread the word to your classmates or have any questions, please let us know.

The friendships and connections formed at UST continue long after graduation, and it's a joy to see them come to life at our alumni events. I hope you'll find a reason to reconnect with us this fall.

Warmly,

Dani Herrera '97

Director of Alumni Relations

Don't Miss UST's Favorite Taco Tradition

Two Saints and a Taco Tasting is back for its 15th year, and now is the perfect time to grab your ticket! We've extended the early-bird deadline to October 9, giving you another week to save on one of UST's favorite alumni traditions. Join fellow Celts on Thursday, October 22, at Saint Arnold Brewing Company for an evening of great food, fellowship, and friendly competition as some of Houston's best taco spots serve up their signature creations. You'll sample, vote, and help crown the People's Choice Taco Champion while supporting scholarships for deserving UST students. Come celebrate 15 years of tacos, traditions, and making a difference for the next generation of Celts.

Celebrating 15 Years, Led by Two Alumni

As we celebrate the 15th Annual Two Saints and a Taco Tasting, get to know this year's co-chairs, Drew Wilson '02 and Calen Anderson, BBA/MBA '24. Representing two generations of UST alumni, Drew and Calen share a commitment to strengthening the alumni community and supporting future Celts through scholarship fundraising.

With one chair having been involved since the event's early days and the other bringing a fresh perspective as a recent graduate, they offer a unique blend of experience and enthusiasm for this milestone year. Learn more about their UST journeys, what inspired them to take on this year's leadership role, and how a simple idea became one of the Alumni Association's most beloved traditions.

Newsworthy

Meeting the Growing Need for Nurses

As the demand for skilled nurses continues to rise in Houston and across the country, the University of St. Thomas' Carol and Odis Peavy School of Nursing is helping prepare the next generation of compassionate healthcare professionals. Through rigorous academics, hands-on clinical experiences, and a commitment to serving others, UST students are making an impact in hospitals, clinics, and communities throughout the region. Learn how the Peavy School of Nursing is expanding opportunities for students while helping address a critical workforce need.

Federal Funding Supports Engineering Innovation

The University of St. Thomas School of Engineering has received a grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, providing new opportunities for research, innovation, and student engagement. This investment highlights the growing impact of UST's engineering programs and the important role faculty and students play in addressing real-world challenges. The grant will help advance cutting-edge work while preparing students with the skills and experience needed to make meaningful contributions in their fields.

Alumni Family Mass and Reception

A Special Alumni Family Mass with Fr. Jeff Thompson, CSB

Join fellow Celts and their families on October 24 for the Alumni Family Mass, a cherished opportunity to gather in faith and fellowship with the UST community. This year's Mass will feature a special return by Fr. Jeff Thompson, CSB, who served as UST's campus minister in the early 2000s and remains a beloved figure for many alumni. Whether you're reconnecting with former classmates, introducing your family to UST, or renewing a favorite campus tradition, we'd love to welcome you. Following Mass, all are invited to continue the celebration at a reception in Keon House.

Homecoming Week 2026

Join us this November as Celts return to campus for a week of tradition, celebration, and connection. Whether you're reconnecting with classmates, cheering on the Celts, or visiting your favorite campus spaces, Homecoming Week offers something for everyone.



Homecoming Week Highlights:

MEMORIAL MASS | MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2 | 12:20pm

Join us for the Memorial Mass at the Chapel of St. Basil presided by Rev. Steven Huber, CSB '18 and Deacon Thad Kudela '18. This tradition is a moving tribute to the alumni, faculty, and staff we’ve lost over the past year. Their names will be honored and remembered in a spirit of reverence. Click here to review the list of names of those we are celebrating this year. If you see someone missing, please email us at alumni@stthom.edu. 

CSB ROCK THE BLOCK | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6 | 5:30pm

Join the Cameron School of Business for the return of a beloved tradition, Rock the Block! Festivities will begin at 5:30pm in Welder Hall. 

REUNION AND CELEBRATION BRUNCH | SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7 | 10:00am

The weekend continues with the Alumni Reunion and Celebration Brunch, where we’ll recognize milestone graduates from the classes of 1956, 1966, 1976, 1986, 1996, 2006, 2016, and 2026. Whether it’s been 70 years or just a few, this special gathering offers all alumni and their guests a chance to toast to unforgettable memories and lifelong connections. 

CAMPUS TAILGATE | SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7 | 12:00pm

After brunch, swing by the Campus Tailgate—your go-to hub for great food, UST goodies, classic yard games, and great company. It’s the perfect spot to reconnect with old friends, make new memories, and share a few laughs before rallying over to the JAAC. The entire campus will be buzzing with energy as students, faculty, staff, and alumni come together in celebration of UST pride.

ALUMNI RECEPTION | SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7 | 2:00pm

While our Celts take the court, alumni and their guests are invited to a relaxed, come-and-go Alumni Reception in the Scanlan Room during the basketball game at the JAAC. It’s the perfect place to reconnect, refuel, and cheer on UST in style with food, drinks, and great company.

We look forward to welcoming alumni, family, and friends back to campus for a week filled with school spirit, fellowship, and memorable moments. Visit the Homecoming website for complete event details and registration information.

Celt Classic

Support Celt Athletics at the Celt Classic

The annual Celt Classic Golf Tournament returns to River Oaks Country Club on November 9, bringing together alumni, friends, and supporters to benefit UST Athletics. This year's event honors Connelly McGreevy, Managing Director at Goldman Sachs and a longtime friend of the University. Proceeds support nearly 400 student-athletes competing across 21 NCAA Division III programs. Sponsorship opportunities are available now.

Other Upcoming Events

Don't miss a thing! Subscribe to the UST Alumni Relations Calendar and stay informed about upcoming alumni events, volunteer opportunities, and special programs.

To use, click the subscription calendar link and open the downloaded .ics file to add the calendar to your preferred calendar application. On most mobile devices, the calendar will open automatically and prompt you to subscribe.

Let's Stay in Touch!

If you’ve recently changed jobs, moved, or updated your email, we’d love to hear from you. Help us keep your alumni record up to date so you never miss what’s happening at UST.