Are you interested in spreading the Celt spirit throughout the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston? Then join UST's new parish relations and help us highlight the University to parishes in the diocese. Volunteers are signing up now to help schedule, plan and conduct “Get to Know UST” weekends at their local parishes. 

Teams will consist of students, staff, faculty, alumni, parents and friends of UST who will make pulpit announcements and staff information stations after each Mass. All members of the UST family can take part in this grassroots effort, whether they are a part of a parish or not. The planning committee will help coordinate times and locations for all who volunteer.  

Why Re-Establish the Parish Program?

One of the key initiatives in the new “Greater Things” Strategic Plan is to invest in marketing and brand recognition. This program will strengthen UST’s brand throughout the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston. This archdiocese covers 8,880 square miles and has 146 parishes, 48 elementary schools, 11 high schools, and one university – UST – serving approximately one million Catholic residents. The “Get to Know UST” campaign provides an opportunity to update them on the great things going on at the University, provide ways for them to connect with us, and build a sense of community. 

“Our most recent brand health survey indicated that while our local parishes in the Houston area have a significant number of prospective students who would prefer attending a Catholic university, even those individuals may not be familiar with UST,” Aaron Stryk '01, UST Board member and chair of UST's Marketing & Enrollment Committee of the Board. “By participating on the parish relations team, our volunteers will play a significant role in helping us to close that gap and ensuring UST’s name and reputation is prominent and widespread across the Archdiocese.”  

How faculty and staff can volunteer:

·       The first step is to complete the volunteer interest form:  https://forms.gle/c1k3RHXpzRwASFAH8   

·       The next step will be to attend an information session on campus. We hope to schedule the first one before we break for the holidays.

“This is a great way to enhance awareness about who we are, what we have to offer, and where we are located – right in the heart of Houston!” Dr. Carla E. Alsandor, senior director of USTMAX Center and Parish Relations Program coordinator, said. “I have been meeting with leaders across campus about this initiative and am getting positive feedback and some great ideas. UST should be well known and embraced by parishioners in the greater Houston area.  After all, we are their Catholic university!”