Texas A&M University-San Antonio once again celebrated the achievements of its students during the University’s signature Zoo Ring Day on Nov. 9 at San Antonio Zoo. Now in its fourth year, the event drew dozens of students who will receive their rings later this week. The tradition highlights the unique partnership between A&M-San Antonio and San Antonio Zoo and reinforces a shared commitment to education, community engagement, and student success.
In attendance was David Esquivel, who was awarded a University scholarship to help cover the cost of his ring. Esquivel is an active member of the Student Library Advisory Board Committee and Omega Delta Phi. Reflecting on his time as a student as it comes to a close, Esquivel shared how significant this milestone is for him.
“For students, it means chasing the goal of graduation. It means looking back on the memories of the people who helped support them, a beautiful symbolic meaning.”
As part of the tradition, student ring boxes were placed inside the jaguar enclosure, where they were watched over by B’alam, one of A&M-San Antonio’s favorite animals. Students set to receive their rings, along with family, friends, and University leadership, gathered to honor their accomplishments. Visitors were treated to a special sight as B’alam stepped onto the chest and brushed along its surface, creating a moment many in attendance viewed as a gesture of blessing.
“The University ring represents the hard work and perseverance of our students as they work towards graduation,” said Texas A&M University-San Antonio President Salvador Hector Ochoa. “Having B’alam, the city’s beloved Jaguar, be part of this special moment makes the tradition uniquely ours and a lasting memory for our students and their families.”
Before students receive their rings during the on-campus ceremony, each ring is placed inside a handcrafted wooden chest, created by South San Antonio High School’s Practicum of Construction Management students. The chest is then placed inside B’alam’s habitat as part of this ceremonial moment, ahead of students receiving their rings.
“We’re proud to continue this special tradition with Texas A&M University-San Antonio, celebrating the hard work and achievements of these students,” said Tim Morrow, President and CEO of San Antonio Zoo. “Having B’alam play a role in this milestone creates a unique experience that reflects our shared commitment to education, community and inspiring future generations.
As part of the ceremony, the ring chest was displayed within the Neotropica habitat, beneath the Pantera Walk. After B’alam looks over the rings, they are taken to the Torre de Esperanza dome ahead of the on-campus ring ceremony, where the Spirit of the Jaguar will be sealed into each ring at sunrise.