“Think big, start small and be consistent”. – The Aguillons
With that, Melissa and Thomas Aguillon reveal one piece of the multifaceted puzzle that forms their lives. An easy enough phrase to read, yet the Aguillon’s challenge anyone to rise to the occasion and heed the phrase that has served as the foundation for their success as partners in life and as business leaders. Both native Texans and first generation college graduates for their families, Melissa and Thomas embody a unique piece of the American spirit and dream. They long to make a difference and have lives of substance. Together they accomplish that feat.
1999 was a good year for Melissa and Thomas. They both worked at San Antonio’s City Hall in different areas, under separate advisors; however, they managed to find each other. At the time, Melissa was working with Council member Jose Menendez and Thomas with Councilman Bobby Perez. They were pursuing their career passions and Melissa was working toward the completion of her Master’s degree in Public Administration from The University of Texas at San Antonio. They discreetly maintained their relationship at City Hall until Melissa’s birthday on January 17, 2001 when Thomas proposed. From that point, they have been two people working toward the common goal of making a positive difference in San Antonio and leaving their handprint on the city in every positive way possible.
Considering their similar family background and educational history it’s not a surprise that the pair works so well together. Both are acutely interested in public affairs, fundraising and the legal aspects of society. While they admit that their schedules are hectic because of all that they are involved in socially and professionally as well as time spent with their three–year–old son, Benjamin, neither would change a thing. Because of their ability to balance each other’s personalities, they are able to focus their drive and desire for success into their finely tuned lives. “We believe that with enough hard work and determination we can accomplish anything together,” said the Aguillons. Friends and colleagues often find the couple huddled together discussing the day’s events.
The culmination of Melissa’s professional experiences in public relations, marketing and fundraising led her last April to accept the Director position at South Texas Women’s Business Center. In the brief time she has served in her role at STWBC, a program funded by a SBA grant to the South Texas Business Fund, Melissa has been instrumental in the progressive strides the organization has made. She draws energy out of serving other strong women who need her business help. “These women know where they want to go. They just need help finding the resources to grab hold of their dreams,” said Melissa. Since April, Melissa has helped develop a training curriculum for the center and routinely guides inquiring women in creating business plans, researching financing options and selecting training courses offered through STWBC that would be of most benefit to them. Either Melissa or her onsite counselor discovering that another of their clients has opened or expanded their business marks the end of a good day.
This year marked the 18th anniversary of the Aguillon Golf Classic that originated as a tribute to Thomas’ great–grandfather. With roots deep in the heart of downtown San Antonio, Thomas is a graduate of Central Catholic and the University of the Incarnate Word, and now works as a Director with Time Warner Cable in San Antonio, handling legislative issues and external affairs. Staying local and keeping a finger on the pulse of the community is a crucial element in life for Thomas. Keeping alive the traditional golf classic is not only something he will be able to pass on to his son, but is also one of the ways he has chosen to give benevolently back to San Antonio. The tournament has generated over $90,000, benefiting local cancer and diabetes foundations since its inception in 1989.
The Aguillons pursue relentlessly the thing in life that matter most to them; staying involved. “The most successful folks are the ones that are not afraid to jump in there and get their hands dirty,” the Aguillons said. Melissa and Thomas without a doubt fill the bill when it comes to staying connected. Both have completed Leadership San Antonio sponsored by the Greater Chamber and the Hispanic Chamber. Aside from Melissa’s recent appointment to UTSA Alumni Association’s Board of Directors, Thomas currently serves as a board member of Brooks Development Authority, San Antonio Municipal Golf Association, Pan American Golf Association, and is incoming President of the Central Catholic Alumni Association.
In spite of their obligations, they dedicate Friday evenings to enjoying their family by cooking dinner with their son and watching a movie together at home. Admitting that wonderful grandparents play a pivotal role in their scheduling success, Thomas and Melissa are quick to advise that constant communication and involvement in each other’s lives is the key to keeping their relationship successful and on track.
It would be easy for a young professional to look at the Aguillon’s accomplishments and social appointments and become intimidated. Melissa and Thomas would be quick to remind that person to find what they are passionate about and be consistent. By getting involved socially, the connections made can segway into other affiliations. “Figure out what you can do that matters to people then serve the community even in the simplest of capacities.” Years of holding steadfast to the goal of keeping an open mind that is cognizant of the small things that matter most is what forms the foundation upon which the Aguillon’s have built their lives. “Know what you want, work hard and the success will come.”
Through staying connected to their community and persevering together, they have found their dream and are living it every day.
