“What if a university could extend beyond national borders?” That’s the story of Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico – USA in San Antonio. It stands as the only Mexican university outside of Mexico. It also claims the distinction of being the only foreign university within the United States.
The Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico’s journey in San Antonio began in 1944. The university started offering courses at the San Antonio Vocational School. Spanish, Mexican Literature, Mexican History, International Law, and Social Economy were the first subjects taught. The initial session lasted only four weeks. A year later, the program relocated to Los Angeles. However, it made its return to San Antonio in 1946.
Francisco Monterde served as director of the summer school in 1952. That same year, El Patronato was founded. This organization was primarily composed of Mexican-Americans. They united to support the Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico.
A significant milestone arrived in 1971. The municipal government of San Antonio authorized UNAM to use a building in Hemisfair Plaza. Thus, the Permanent Extension School of the Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico was established.
The devaluation of the peso in 1982 brought challenges. Staff and faculty faced cuts. Administration personnel shrank from eleven to three. The faculty was reduced from twelve to four. Despite these setbacks, enrollment averaged 950 students in 1984.
New facilities for the Permanent Extension School opened in October 1986. They were located at Plaza Mexico. The Mexican Cultural Institute of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is also located there. Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico promotes cultural events. These events offer a panorama of Mexican art and history. They also showcase contemporary Mexican society.
A binational studies program began in 1988. This also included the study of bilateral relations. Since 1987, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico San Antonio has collaborated with various institutions. These include the University of Texas at San Antonio. Others are the University of Texas at Austin and Trinity University. They have collectively produced forty-six events related to Mexican studies.
Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico San Antonio focuses on teaching. It also emphasizes research and cultural exchange. It acts as a conduit between Mexican culture and diverse organizations. These organizations are both academic and public. The university draws upon resources from Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico Mexico City.
In 1983, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico added English courses. It also provides special programs such as Citizenship and GED. They even offer a Spanish oral proficiency test. This test is for individuals whose jobs require Spanish skills.
Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico’s campus in San Antonio is a two-way bridge. It facilitates the flow of ideas and knowledge. The university serves as a link between public and private universities. It connects various schools, institutes, and centers of Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico.
The objective of Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico San Antonio is equality. It aims to provide an environment of equality for all. The institution prohibits discrimination. This prohibition is based on race, color, disability, religion, sex, or origin. It also includes age, citizenship, genetic information, veteran status, and sexual orientation.
So, as you stand here, remember that Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico – USA is more than just a university. It’s a symbol of cultural exchange. It’s a testament to international collaboration. It’s a bridge between two nations.