Dear Vista Family,

As we approach the end of another year, it is with great pride and gratitude that I reflect on the remarkable achievements of our community. This year has been nothing short of extraordinary, and it is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our faculty, staff, and students.

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you for your unwavering commitment to our students and their success. Our faculty and staff have consistently demonstrated a student-centered approach, focusing on creating opportunities that pave the way for academic excellence and personal growth. Your dedication has not only transformed the lives of individual students but has also contributed to the overall success and vibrancy of our college community.

In the spirit of celebration, let us take a moment to reflect on the numerous accomplishments we have achieved together. It is through your efforts that we have seen a positive impact on student outcomes and success, marking Vista as a beacon of hope and possibility.

However, as we celebrate, it is crucial that we remain steadfast in our pursuit of excellence. The recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey reminds us of the challenges our community faces. San Antonio, despite its cultural richness and diversity, is grappling with significant poverty rates. The statistics highlight the urgency of our mission and the importance of our work in providing accessible, quality education to all.

The landscape we navigate is marked by disparities, particularly in educational attainment. It is disheartening to see that only 32.6% of our population holds an associate degree or higher. However, our strategic plan, the compass guiding our efforts, is focused on achieving high, equitable, and improving student success levels.

Our primary goals involve reducing equity gaps by implementing targeted interventions for vulnerable student populations. This includes our commitment to supporting minority, first-generation, and academically underprepared students. By fostering a sense of belonging, we aim to enhance student well-being, academic success, and degree completion.

As we embark on a new year, let us carry forward the momentum of our achievements, fortified by the knowledge that our collective efforts have the power to make a lasting impact. Together, we will continue to be an anchor of hope for our community, creating a path to brighter futures.

Thank you for your dedication, passion, and hard work. Wishing you all a joyful holiday season and a promising new year.

With gratitude,

Debi Gaitan,  NVC Vice President for Student Success