SPS Admissions Counselors

The UIW School of Professional Studies Admissions team is here to help you achieve your educational goals. Our admissions counselors can assist you with starting your application for a bachelor's or master's degree, transferring your college credits and any questions you have about SPS programs. Please feel free to reach out via email, text or schedule a virtual appointment.


Meet the Team

Teresa Villegas Headshot

Teresa Villegas

Director of Enrollment Management and Outreach
Phone: (210) 832-2101
Email: tevilleg@uiwtx.edu

Teresa was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas. She is currently completing her Master of Business Administration in Human Resource Management degree at UIW. She earned a Master of Human Resource Management from Argosy University and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from UIW. Her background is in education and finance. She has eight years of experience working in education and two years working abroad at an international school in Shenzhen, China. She worked as a licensed personal banker prior to entering the field of education. She enjoys spending time with family and friends and giving back to the senior community. Her son Ryan is her greatest blessing in life. She hopes to teach at the university level, and is planning to start a Doctor of Business Administration after completing her MBA.

For me, at UIW, the WORD is Discover. As students we seek to discover who we are and who we want to be. What an education can provide us and what we provide others with our education. How we will respond to challenges and how challenges can define us. Why faith, truth and service are core values and how they impact us as individuals and the communities around us. As an adult leaner, it is refreshing to see that we are not alone in our academic endeavors. We discover that there are many resources available and people to guide us along the way. Let us answer your questions and help you get started on your next academic journey. Our UIW family awaits you!

Aimee Leal Headshot

Aimee Leal

Assistant Director of Recruitment and Admissions
Phone: (210) 283-6371
Email: aleal2@uiwtx.edu

Aimee is a native of Laredo, Texas. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of the Incarnate Word in 2007. Having always been active on campus, her interest in higher education policy was ignited as she served as the Student Ambassador coordinator through the Office of Admissions during her senior year and entered the field immediately upon graduation. Aimee returned to UIW to earn her Master of Arts in Administration in 2012 and in currently pursuing her Doctor of Education with a concentration in Higher Education from Abilene Christian University. Her 17-year career has enabled her to serve a diverse group of students having served at a large state university, a small community college and here at UIW. In her spare time, Aimee enjoys supporting her children in their various activities, spending time with family and friends and serving as a member of the Bexar Necessities Lion’s Club chapter.

For me, at UIW, the WORD is Advancement. Since its founding, the Sisters of Charity have supported the advancement of the San Antonio community. They worked tirelessly to fulfill the healthcare and educational needs of the area allowing the community to grow into the flourishing city it is today. Going from Incarnate Word College to the University of the Incarnate Word demonstrated its drive and dedication to its mission. In its own pursuit of advancement, UIW has been able to provide diverse programs and experiences to its students. It encourages its students to grow in knowledge, faith, and service to continue to improve their lives and those they encounter.

Luisa Gamboa Headshot

Luisa Gamboa

Admissions Counselor
Phone: (210) 832-2165
Email: gamboaga@uiwtx.edu

Luisa's journey begins in Laredo, Texas, but her roots trace back to Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. She pursued her education at Laredo College, where she earned an Associate of Arts and furthered her studies at Texas A&M International University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Seeking fresh horizons, Luisa made the bold decision to relocate to San Antonio, driven by a desire for growth and new experiences both personally and professionally. With a diverse skill set acquired over the years, Luisa brings a wealth of experience to the table. She's spent time in the classroom, nurturing young minds and shaping futures, and has also delved into the dynamic world of sales and customer service, where her skills for communication and problem-solving truly shine. Outside of her professional endeavors, Luisa enjoys spending time with her family and exploring nature.

For me, at UIW, the WORD is Opportunity.  At UIW, an abundance of opportunities awaits those who seek them, providing a solid ground for personal and professional growth, as well as advancement. Whether it's through academic pursuits, extracurricular activities, or career development programs, the institution offers a variety of pathways for individuals to thrive. Moreover, UIW's commitment to inclusivity and support creates a nurturing environment where everyone is encouraged to explore their passions, chase their dreams, and contribute meaningfully to the broader community. This culture of empowerment fosters a sense of belonging, inspiring individuals to push their boundaries, embrace new challenges, realize their full potential, and make a positive impact on the world around them.

Maritza Zambrano Headshot

Maritza Zambrano

Admissions Counselor
Phone: (210) 829-2771
Email: mazambra@uiwtx.edu

Maritza is absolutely thrilled to embark on her adventure as an Admissions Counselor for SPS. With a passion for political science cultivated through her extensive academic pursuits at Texas State University, where she received both her undergraduate and graduate education, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this role. As a Graduate Instructional Assistant, Maritza honed her skills in critical thinking, administration, and social media management, skills that she is excited to apply in helping students navigate their educational journeys. Beyond academia, she finds joy in reading, exploring new destinations through travel, and indulging in the delightful hobby of trying different foods. Her diverse interests and experiences have shaped her into a well-rounded individual, ready to connect with students and contribute to the vibrant UIW community.

For me, at UIW, the WORD is Growth. Here, students are encouraged to embrace a journey of constant development, exploring not only their academic pursuits but also their personal and professional growth. Education becomes a catalyst for self-discovery and realization of potential, fostering a deep understanding of oneself and the world. Challenges are viewed as opportunities for growth, molding individuals into resilient and adaptable leaders. As members of the UIW community, both students and staff members alike, we recognize the importance of collective growth, supporting and uplifting one another on our respective journeys. Welcome to UIW, where the spirit of growth seeps through every aspect of our academic and personal endeavors! 

Danielle Gonzalez

Danielle Gonzalez

Admissions Counselor
Phone: (210) 283-6365
Email: degonza5@uiwtx.edu

Born in Laredo, Texas, Danielle earned her Bachelor of Arts in Biology with a minor in Dance from Texas A&M International University. Danielle also holds a graduate certificate in Applied Biomedical Informatics from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston and a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology from Texas A&M University. With 3 years of experience in higher education, she has served as a lead student mentor for freshman students for one year and spent two years as a graduate admissions counselor. On her free time, Danielle enjoys going to the gym, practicing yoga or playing video games with friends. Looking ahead, she plans to continue her education by pursuing an MBA and eventually a doctoral degree in a similar field of study.

For me, at UIW, the WORD is Transformation. At UIW, education is not just about acquiring knowledge, it’s about experiencing a transformation that shapes who we are and who we aspire to become. Through a supportive and faith-driven environment, we are encouraged to step outside of our comfort zones and challenge ourselves to evolve academically, personally and spiritually. Whether through hands-on learning, community engagement or the core values of faith, truth, innovation, education and service, UIW provides the tools to transform our perspectives and impact the world in meaningful ways. This journey of transformation prepares us to be leaders in our communities, equipped with the skills and compassion needed to make a difference. Let us help you start your own path to transformation here at UIW!