As part of National Dog Week, we’re back with a special pet edition of our Southside Makers & Shakers series, that highlights members in our community. This month, we're excited to introduce Archie & Skylar, two beloved pups who not only call VIDA San Antonio home but have also captured the hearts of many through their online presence.
La Gente of the Southside
San Antonio’s Southside is home to a special community of creators, hard workers, and people that inspire—many of whom are leaders across the Alamo city. Our Southside Makers and Shakers blog series celebrates Southsiders making their mark. Each addition to the series offers new insight into the community and the gente that make the Southside so unique.
Darnell Smith, Director of Intercollegiate Athletics at Texas A&M-San Antonio, is building a lasting legacy on the Southside by expanding sports programs, fostering student-athlete success, and elevating the community on a national stage.
Brenda Anz, known as San Antonio's Coupon Queen, empowers the community through Saving Our Way and Women Unlimited SA, helping people save money and supporting women entrepreneurs with resources and networking opportunities.
Emilie Herrera, co-founder and owner of Folklores Coffee House, has built a community-driven business on San Antonio's Southside that focuses on empowerment, support, and making a lasting impact through local partnerships and service.
This year’s Southside Makers & Shakers featured an inspiring lineup of community leaders, from entrepreneurs and educators to artists and advocates, all dedicated to making a lasting impact on San Antonio’s Southside.
Flor E. Gutiérrez is the founding superintendent of Celebrate Dyslexia Schools, a tuition-free charter focused on providing an enriching, safe educational environment for dyslexic children in San Antonio, driven by her passion for improving lives through education on the Southside.
Dr. Davida Smyth is an Associate Professor of Molecular Microbiology at Texas A&M University - San Antonio, where she combines teaching and research to inspire students through project-based learning and real-world scientific experiences that address global challenges.
Sarita Zúñiga is the owner of Sarita’s Dance Studio, Inc., a pillar of the Southside community, offering diverse dance education, scholarships, and professional development for aspiring dancers. With over 60 years in the dance field, Sarita is dedicated to inspiring and empowering students to achieve their dreams while giving back to the community.
Sara Briseño Gerrish, co-owner of RE/MAX Unlimited, has been a leader in Southside San Antonio's real estate and community development, advocating for housing access and economic growth through her work with local organizations like the San Antonio Board of REALTORS® and South Texas Business Partnership.
