On Friday morning, January 19, as the sun was rising, opening retreat weekend kicked off at Hemisfair Park. The Steering Committee extended a hearty welcome to the Class of 2024, greeting them with warm smiles and steaming cups of coffee at the chic Box St Social. The class of 55 was then whisked away by SAGO to the historic Hilton Palacio Del Rio, where the vibrant sounds of Mariachi Azul bestowed upon them a quintessential San Antonio welcome.
On the 22nd floor, with a breathtaking panorama of the San Antonio skyline as the backdrop, Jeff Webster, CEO, and Mario Barrera, Chairman, from the Greater San Antonio Chamber along with Hispanic Chamber Interim CEO JR Trevino extended a warm welcome to the class. LSA 48 Co-Chairs Edward Benavides (LSA 40 & Steer Co 45,47) and Brandyn Rodriguez (LSA 36 & Steer Co 45) unveiled the overarching theme for the year – SERVICE.
Glenn Revell (LSA 44 & Steer Co 47) served as facilitator, leading the class through a compelling journey of conversations and engaging group activities. In a display of vulnerability, laughter, and tears, members bravely crafted their purpose passion statements, and intentions for their LSA48 journey.
Fueled by newfound inspiration and a shared sense of purpose, the class gathered shoulder to shoulder to pack 200 school supply bags for teachers in collaboration with the United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, contributing to the Write Start Project a value of $4,000 in school supplies for local teachers.
A brisk stroll along the picturesque Riverwalk led the class to the San Antonio River Arneson Theatre. Crossing Rosita’s Bridge, classmates joined their teams for class day assignments and meeting the Steering Committee on the grand stage.
The following Saturday morning they kicked off an exhilarating scavenger hunt. In pursuit of flamingos and twirling with strangers, the Class of 48 made their way through downtown San Antonio. After the winning group claimed their prize, and just before settling in for the afternoon, Miranda Puente (LSA 45 & Steer Co 48) guided the class through a rejuvenating 5-minute partnered stretch.
They culminated the weekend with a sense of anticipation for the future and the profound impact of collective efforts. LSA 48 is set to embark on its Year of Service on Wednesday, February 14, 2024, armed with passion, purpose, and a commitment to making a difference.