Army-Baylor Students Lead Through Service and Impact
For military officers, a commitment to service extends far beyond wearing the uniform. It is a foundational value that dictates not only how they lead but also how they engage with their surrounding communities. Despite the rigorous demands of their coursework, the cohort found meaningful ways to give back during their didactic year, collectively dedicating an impressive 681.5 hours to volunteering and demonstrating that leadership and community support go hand in hand.
Under the guidance of student volunteer coordinator Maj. Theresa Galan, the students engaged in a diverse array of community initiatives throughout the year. A significant portion of their collective efforts supported the San Antonio Food Bank through routine service and a highly successful collection drive that raised $600 to combat local food insecurity. Beyond the food bank, individual students leveraged their diverse skills to support the public in unique ways. This included serving as youth sports coaches, providing medical support for local 5K events like the Walk on the Westside and volunteering their time at local schools.
These 681.5 hours of community engagement reflect the values of the Army-Baylor MHA/MBA program and the military at large. By stepping out of the classroom and into the San Antonio community, these officers exemplified selfless service. Their varied contributions not only made a tangible difference locally but also reinforced their curriculum, offering real-world perspectives on population health and the social determinants of health.
The residents also demonstrated a strong commitment to professional service and community engagement throughout the year. One resident, Lt. j.g. Kameron Williams, served as the director for philanthropy and community relations for the South Texas Chapter of the American College of Healthcare Executives, contributing to local volunteer initiatives including a blood drive at UT Health and an urban farming event with the San Antonio Food Bank. Residents also played key leadership roles in the Navy Regent Advisory Council’s Lewis E. Angelo Professional Symposium, coordinating mentorship sessions, a town hall with the MSC chief, and a virtual symposium that reached more than 270 attendees. Additional service included volunteer work at the Olympia Free Clinic, where Capt. Bethany Gurba contributed more than 22 hours supporting free medical and mental healthcare for uninsured adults. Collectively, the residents’ efforts reflect a deep commitment to service, leadership development and meaningful impact across military, professional and community settings.
