UTEP Recognizes $1M Gift from WestStar Bank
Last Updated on August 31, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Originally published August 31, 2022
By MC Staff
UTEP Marketing and Communications
Two student-focused spaces in the College of Business Administration now bear the WestStar name
EL PASO, Texas (Aug. 31, 2022) — The University of Texas at El Paso has renamed two areas in the College of Business Administration (COBA) in recognition of a $1 million gift from WestStar Bank.
“As one of America’s leading research universities, we always strive to provide our students with access to the type of facilities and services they would expect from such an institution,” said James E. Payne, Ph.D., dean of the College of Business Administration. “This generous gift will allow us to continue to offer a top-tier learning environment for our students. We are thankful to Rick Francis, Lisa Saenz and everyone at WestStar for partnering with us on this important work.”
In recognition of the gift, the lobby of the College of Business Administration building is now named the WestStar Collaborative Atrium. The area is extensively used by students to work on group projects and class work. COBA officials also use the area as a front door to the college, often hosting receptions, competitions and other events that highlight the work of its students.
“At WestStar, we believe students deserve the opportunity to obtain an education that sets them up for success after graduation,” Lisa Saenz, COO and CFO of WestStar Bank said. “We hope our financial commitment to UTEP, along with our collaboration on the Banking Academy and internship opportunities, will help keep our talent in the region to contribute to the community’s continued and future success.”
The office that houses the college’s student success center, located on the first floor of the College of Business Administration building, has also been renamed in recognition of WestStar’s gift. In that space, COBA students have access to first-rate advising services and professional development programming, including internships.
“As an invaluable UTEP partner, WestStar and its employees — many of whom are alumni of the University — have not only been one of the key sets of collaborators in establishing the Banking Academy, but are also long-term supporters of the University,” Payne said.
