Monica Casanova is an Administrative Associate I for the College of Engineering’s Development Office.
Please tell us about yourself.
I was born and raised in Michigan – Go Blue! My husband and I recently celebrated our 19th wedding anniversary and we have three children together: 18-year-old Gabe, 11-year-old Maya, and 6-year-old Elena. In Michigan, I worked at The University of Michigan for 13 years, working my way up from a file clerk to the Program Director of the Alumni Student Recruitment Program. In 2015 my family and I made the toughest decision of our lives and relocated to Southern California due to a job promotion my husband received. There were not many college campuses near our residence in California, so I found a job at a local charter school in the guidance department. We made many great friends and enjoyed great experiences in California, but were missing the family connection that my husband and I grew up with. In 2018 we decided to move to San Antonio where we have many friends and extended family members. With so many college campuses in San Antonio and missing the university atmosphere, I began a job hunt within higher education. I am celebrating my 1-year anniversary with UTSA this month!
What is your job title and what do you do?
I am the Administrative Associate I for the Development Office at the College of Engineering. I support the Engineering Development Office with stewardship, cultivation, and special events.
What is the best thing about your job?
I enjoy the fact that every day is different and fun.
What is your proudest moment with the COE?
My proudest moment within the COE would be when I participated in the planning of the Large-Scale Testing Laboratory Grand Opening, which occurred in October, and seeing the event come together so well.
What is your favorite thing about San Antonio?
One of the things that drew us to San Antonio is the music; we love Tejano music! I also love that San Antonio is so divers and culturally based.
What is your favorite quote?
Live Laugh Love
How do you like to spend your free time?
I enjoy spending time with my family lounging at home, attending one of the many events that San Antonio has to offer, and catching a run or workout when I can.
If you were an animal, what would you be?
I would probably be some type of bird so I could see the earth in a different perspective.