UT San Antonio Named New Film Program Director
Guillermina Zabala Suárez assumed the role of film and media program director at UT San Antonio on September 1.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in People
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Guillermina Zabala Suárez became the director of the film and media program at UT San Antonio effective September 1. She succeeds Paul Ardoin, who stepped down to focus on his own professional work.
Why it matters
The leadership change arrives as the program enters its fifth year of operation, prompting an administrative restructuring. This transition aims to support the continued development and growth of the department.
The film and media program currently serves over 300 students. The department is in its fifth year of operation, with the program director overseeing operations currently housed in the McKinney Humanities Building.
The players
Guillermina Zabala Suárez
She is the newly appointed director of the film and media program at UT San Antonio.
Paul Ardoin
He is the former director of the film and media program who stepped down to focus on personal professional work.
The details
Zabala Suárez previously served as a professor of practice starting in 2023 and as assistant director of the program. Under her new leadership, the program plans to expand internship opportunities for upperclass students and increase the frequency of public student screenings.
Timeline
Zabala Suárez joined the faculty as a professor of practice in 2023.
Guillermina Zabala Suárez officially became program director on September 1, 2026.
Market Landscape
This leadership transition follows the established trajectory of the UT San Antonio film and media program as it reaches its fifth anniversary milestone. The change positions the department to shift from its initial startup phase toward a more formal period of institutional expansion.
Students can expect to see an increase in internship availability and more frequent public film screenings under the new leadership. These changes may improve professional development outcomes for those currently enrolled in the program.
The takeaway
The department is entering a new phase of growth focused on community engagement and infrastructure development. Students should watch for updated academic and career resources as the program expands its reach.
Further reading
For more on educational and professional developments in the city, visit the San Antonio People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Paisano.
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