San Antonio’s Southside has long been a cradle of resilience and ambition, and among its most inspiring figures is Dr. Stacy Ybarra Evans, a trailblazer in the field of education. Born and raised near Palo Alto College, Dr. Evans embodies the transformative power of determination, education, and community engagement. As the Center for Teaching Excellence Director at Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU), the first Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) in the United States, she is pivotal in advancing faculty development and enriching teaching practices.
Growing up in a community known for its perseverance, Dr. Evans was the first in her family to attend and graduate from college. Her educational journey began at Palo Alto College, a foundation she credits for igniting her passion for learning. In 2024, her alma mater honored her as Outstanding Alumni—a testament to her enduring impact. Her academic path led her to Texas A&M University-San Antonio, where she received her class ring from the university’s former president, Dr. Ferrier, and ultimately to earning her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Capella University.
“My journey has been fueled by the determination and grit I saw daily in my community,” Dr. Evans reflects. “Those roots continue to inspire me as I advocate for equitable and innovative education.”
As a woman of color navigating the world of academia, Dr. Evans has faced challenges that only strengthened her resolve to
champion diversity and inclusion. She is most proud of her efforts to create initiatives that support underrepresented groups and foster a sense of belonging in educational spaces.
Her work extends beyond traditional teaching practices. Dr. Evans is passionate about leveraging cutting-edge tools like Generative AI to enhance learning experiences and mitigate faculty burnout. She is a 2023-2024 member of HEB’s Narrative Storytelling Cohort, Macmillan Learning’s Accessibility Advisory Board, the SAISD Budget Committee, and Up Partnership’s Restorative Practices Academy.
Dr. Evans’ connection to the Southside is more than geographical; it’s a core part of her identity and work. She brings a unique understanding of the community’s challenges and strengths, channeling that insight into creating learning environments where both educators and students can thrive.
“I believe in the transformative power of education,” she says. “Education not only changes lives but also builds communities.”
In two weeks, Dr. Evans will further her leadership journey at Princeton University, participating in the prestigious Hispanic Theological Initiative’s 2024-2025 Latina in Leadership Program. This opportunity underscores her commitment to continual growth and her belief in the power of representation.
Dr. Evans’ advice is simple yet profound: “Believe in the power of your story and let it guide your journey.” Her story is a testament to this mantra, proving that one’s roots can be the foundation of impactful leadership.
Dr. Evans is open to collaboration with local organizations, educators, and community members to further education and engagement initiatives. Those interested can connect with her via LinkedIn or follow her work on Twitter.
With a career built on passion, perseverance, and innovation, Dr. Stacy Ybarra Evans is not only a leader in education but also a beacon of hope and inspiration for her community and beyond.
