Message from the chair

Since the inception of the Fiesta Oyster Bake in 1916, both it and St. Mary’s University have grown in size and stature. Indeed, our festival ranks as one of the largest and most vibrant of its kind in the nation, attracting more than 60,000 participants in 2009.

Our mission statement, “is to provide a quality food and entertainment event that is successful in raising funds for St. Mary's University, the St. Mary's University Alumni Association, and working in conjunction with the Fiesta San Antonio Commission, with the goal of providing scholarship and alumni/university programming monies, developing fellowship, and promoting St. Mary's University.” This proclaims why we’re here and what we do.

Many people do not realize that we work year round to create one of the best events internationally to support a charity. An event of this magnitude cannot be successful without the help of over 7,000 volunteers. I am particularly proud of the Oyster Bake Committee members, Bob Mason, Jeanne Champion, Mary Almanza, Jim Forkenbrock, Chris Martinez, Mike Martinez, Jason Longoria, Alfred Lopez, Darrel Stewart, Helen Butler and me. This group of 11 St. Mary’s University Alumni as well as the Alumni Association staff, Steve Rosenauer and Fred Meyer, have dedicated many hours over the last year to develop the very best event that Fiesta has to offer.

Fiesta Oyster Bake promises once again to provide excellent musical groups, enjoyable family entertainment, food to satisfy your hunger and beverages to satisfy your thirst.

Thanks to all those who have supported and continue to support Fiesta Oyster Bake, the St. Mary’s University Alumni Association and St. Mary’s University. We are built on traditions, volunteerism and an overwhelming desire to give back to our community.

See you April 16th & 17th.

Sincerely,
Antonio “Tony” Rivera
Chairman Fiesta Oyster Bake