Grad’s role as Oakley was treasured TWU experience

When Mario Garcia walks across the stage at Kitty Magee Arena to accept a bachelor’s degree in General Studies on Dec. 13, he will leave TWU with some mighty big shoes to fill – literally.

For the last three and a half years, Garcia has been leading spirit at Texas Woman’s biggest events and athletic contests. Of course, he has been doing so as TWU’s beloved mascot, Oakley, who always dons a pair of oversized, cartoon-like feet, say roughly about size 17-E?

To play the role of Oakley means that Garcia was a fixture at athletic competitions and special events throughout the year, which required extraordinary dedication to a demanding schedule.

“Being the mascot has been an unforgettable experience that I’ll always treasure,” Garcia said.

After graduation, Garcia plans to continue his studies, focusing on education and family studies. His goal is to someday become a science or math teacher, and, eventually, a school principal. 

As a first-generation college student, he considers finishing college a huge accomplishment, but there was a lot more to his college experience than playing the role of Oakley. 

Last fall, Garcia received the Outstanding Initial Certification Award from the Educator Preparation Program. He has worked with Housing and Dining for three years and has been involved in other leadership capacities. 

As a first-year student, he served as publicity coordinator for the Parliament Community Interns, and as a sophomore was president of the Stark Community Interns. He also was a publicity coordinator for the Residence Hall Association, for which he helped create the first-ever Day of the Dead celebration.

Big shoes to fill, indeed.

Page last updated 3:00 PM, December 12, 2024