Posted on October 3, 2025 by College of Sciences
#StaffSpotlight
Monica Palomo, MBA, Assistant Dean for Fiscal Administration, College of Sciences Office of the Dean
What did your journey to The University of Texas at San Antonio look like?
I received my Bachelor of Science in Biology from The University of Texas at San Antonio in 2009, so my connection to this university goes back over 20 years. I recently transitioned from UT Health San Antonio, where I spent nearly 19 years building a career in research and finance administration. This November will mark 19 years within the UT System, and I'm excited to now continue that journey here at UT San Antonio in the College of Sciences. With my background in research and financial operations, this role feels like a natural fit and a full-circle moment.
What do you enjoy most about your area of study?
I've always been drawn to the intersection of science and administration—supporting groundbreaking research while ensuring that the financial and operational side is sound. I enjoy creating systems and structures that allow faculty and researchers to focus on discovery, while I work behind the scenes to make sure resources are in place and managed responsibly. It's rewarding to know that my work directly supports innovation and student success.
What are some of the most notable research projects that you've been involved in?
One of the highlights of my career was helping to submit the CTSA 4.0 application at the Institute for Integration of Medicine and Science. This was a major effort that combined three awards into one, all of which were successfully funded. Several of the sub-awards were even in partnership with UT San Antonio and UT Austin, which made it especially meaningful to see the collaboration extend across institutions and directly strengthen research capacity in our region.
What is your proudest moment with the College of Sciences?
Since I'm still fairly new to the university, I'd say my proudest moment so far has been joining such a dynamic team and beginning to contribute right away. Coming back as an alumna has been a proud and meaningful step—especially knowing I can now give back to the same college where I began my own academic journey.
Describe your new leadership role and how it will help support students, faculty, and/or staff in COS
I'm excited to be part of the Business Service Center team for the College of Sciences, where we play an important role in supporting the college's financial and administrative needs. In my position, I focus on improving processes and making things more efficient so faculty and staff can spend more time on teaching and research. I look forward to contributing to a supportive environment that helps students, faculty, and staff thrive.
What are you most looking forward to in this new role?
I'm really looking forward to working closely with the Business Service Center team and building strong partnerships across the college. Together, we'll continue finding ways to streamline processes and provide excellent support for faculty, staff, and students. As a UT San Antonio alumna, it feels especially meaningful to return and contribute in this way—I’m excited to give back to the university that helped shape my own journey.
How would you spend your ideal Saturday?
My ideal Saturday would start with me being first in line at a great estate sale, coffee in hand, then spending the morning thrifting for hidden treasures. After that, I'd relax and enjoy the day with my daughter Michaela—whether that's tackling a fun DIY project, gardening, or just hanging out together. We would fit in a trip to Starbucks and then hopefully end the day with a swim and bbq at my sisters, hanging with the family.
What are your book recommendations?
I'm currently reading A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas, which has quickly become a favorite and I bought the series. But my book club "The Goldenish Girls" voted on The Housemaid by Freida McFadden, which I have yet to start!
— College of Sciences
