Charla con Chávez

This week, we’re celebrating OLLU Homecoming with a special episode featuring alumni, current students, and community leaders as they share their favorite memories, the impact of OLLU on their lives, and what it means to be part of the Saints family!

Welcome back to Charla con Chávez, the show where we dive into the real stories of OLLU students—where college life meets passion, hustle, and a little bit of fun. Today, we’ve got a powerhouse guest who moves fast both on the track and in life. He’s a track star, a music major, a sports broadcaster, and a valet driver downtown if OLLU had a superhero, it might just be Jalen Bell.

¡Bienvenidos, mi gente! Welcome back to Charla Con Chávez, the podcast where we highlight the voices of changemakers, trailblazers, and the incredible students making waves at OLLU. Today, we have a guest whose passion for history isn’t just about the past—it’s about shaping the future. He’s a McNair Scholar, a first-gen leader, a history powerhouse, and honestly, if OLLU had a Mount Rushmore of academic excellence, his face might already be on it. Please welcome Steven Engbrecht!

Dr. Abel Antonio Chávez is having a Charla with Nayeli - future math teacher, hometown hero, and Charles Butt Scholar. Growing up in Del Rio, TX, she’s driven to give back by improving local schools and inspiring the next generation. At OLLU, she’s found her home, thriving as a campus ambassador and leader in the Bilingual Education Student Org. When she’s not hitting the books, she’s hitting the pavement — recently crushing the San Antonio Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon. Passionate, determined, and ready to make an impact.

Dr. Abel Antonio Chávez is having a Charla with a first-gen student from Zapata, TX, navigating the college process with determination. Overcoming culture shock and language barriers, she’s now studying biology at OLLU while advocating for other first-generation students. When she’s not in class, she volunteers with new moms at CHRISTUS Hospital and gives back through her church. Passionate and driven, she’s turning challenges into opportunities. Please welcome Arianna Ambriz! 

Today Dr. Abel Antonio Chávez is having a Charla with Gilberto Castro: scholar, artist, and advocate. From supporting his brother to pursuing dreams of joining the FBI or CIA, he’s driven to make a difference. A full scholarship student at OLLU, he’s also a musician with an EP in the works and the author of My Black Box, available on Amazon. As President of the Cold Case Club and a Muay Thai enthusiast, Gilberto is chasing goals, breaking barriers, and rocking out along the way!

For the first episode of "Charla con Chávez" our guest is student Nemesis Crociata. a first-generation student, who was raised in Toledo, Ohio, and discovered her passion for helping others at OLLU’s Social Work program. A McNair Scholar, she has balanced numerous jobs over the years to fund her education. In 2025, she will graduate with a degree in Social Work and Sociology, with plans to pursue a master’s, a Ph.D. in Global Wealth and Equality, and a career in research and teaching to support underserved communities.