Member profile: Emilia Westney

Emilia Westney volunteers for a variety of organizations around San Antonio, so she knew she wanted to get involved in Impact San Antonio after she joined last spring. Here is what she has to say about our organization and her part in it.

When and how did you first hear about Impact San Antonio?

A friend of mine asked if I wanted to go with her to the Spring Fling event in May 2021. She was planning to join (she’d been a member of the Austin chapter), and thought I’d be interested in becoming a member. I didn’t know about Impact SA before then, and I am so glad I went with her!

Who or what inspired you to join?

It was a no-brainer! I was so impressed that night by the stories of past and present grantees and what they were able to accomplish with the grants. I decided right then that I wanted to be a part of what Impact SA does.

What do you enjoy most about being an Impact SA member?

Knowing that my charitable dollars can really make a difference in this community.

What inspires you the most about the work that Impact SA does in our community?

I find it inspiring that Impact SA awards grants across different focus areas. That was one of the aspects of this organization that impressed me the most. We make an impact in so many different ways!

What volunteer roles have you filled in Impact SA?

I was the Support Grant liaison for Blessed Sacrament Academy. That gave me the opportunity to get to know that agency and its representatives, and the very important work they do for the community. I also helped to greet guests at the 2021 Grant Award Night.

Are there any volunteer roles you would like to take on in the future?

I would love to serve on a Grant Review committee.

What do you do for a living?

Before retiring in 2017, I served for many years at Texas Tech University as both an instructor of management in the College of Business, and also as an administrator. Before doing that, however, I was a professional singer, and taught voice at the university and privately.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I love to travel with my husband, Bill. I also enjoy spending time in the great outdoors by exploring the many state parks, hiking and birding. When I can, I volunteer my time to help various entities (the San Antonio Food Bank, Mobile Loaves and Fishes, the local Audubon chapter, etc.). And perhaps the greatest satisfaction comes from just hanging out with my three high-energy grandsons!