S4E14: From Rey Feo to VIA CEO: UTSA Alumnus Jon Gary Herrera’s Leadership Journey

In this inspiring episode of Birds Up Podcast, we sit down with UTSA alumnus Jon Gary Herrera, the newly appointed President & CEO of VIA Metropolitan Transit—and the first Latino to hold the position in the agency’s 46-year history.Jon Gary shares how his San Antonio roots, years in strategic communications, and deep commitment to public service shaped his journey from private sector leader to public servant. We explore his time at UTSA, his unforgettable reign as Rey Feo LXVII, and how those experiences continue to fuel his mission to expand equitable, accessible, and innovative transit options across Bexar County.We dive into what’s ahead for VIA, including the groundbreaking VIA Rapid Green Line, expanding on-demand transit zones, and the Better Bus Plan that aims to move San Antonio into a smarter, more connected future.This episode is full of heart, humor, and powerful insights on leadership, legacy, and what it means to build community from the ground up.Tune in and take the ride!Show Notes:VIA TransitMore information about VIA Link, including the Little Runner: https://www.viainfo.net/link/More information on U-Pass, a special rider program available through partnerships with colleges and universities that provides unlimited bus rides: https://www.viainfo.net/upass/UTSA Express Route Schedule: https://www.viainfo.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Schedule093.pdfMore information about the VIA Rapid Green Line: https://keepsamoving.com/projects/via-rapid/via-rapid-green-line/More information about open positions at VIA: https://www.viainfo.net/employment/UTSA / UTSA AlumniUTSA 50th Fiesta Arts FairUTSA Alumni Fiesta MedalUTSA Alumni Fiesta ShirtUTSA Alumni UTSA AthleticsUTSA Alumni Online Store  Thanks for tuning in! Don’t forget to like, follow, and subscribe for more great content! Birds Up!