The Faces of the St. Anthony Hotel
“I have enjoyed working for the St Anthony for over 20 years. It’s a magical place that has a history like no other. As we all know, it’s the people that make a place a great place to work. The St Anthony has put together the “dream team” to carry the hotel forward into the coming years. Each associate was selected because of their attitude and work ethic. It’s so much fun to come to work every day!”
Debbie Gonzalez
Senior Account Executive
“I started at the St. Anthony 6 years ago as a room attendant. This hotel has been my first hotel ever. I didn't have any housekeeping experience ever. When I came into the St. Anthony it was in the process of remodeling so basically I was the first room attendant hired for the re open in 2015. It was very exciting seeing the new changes of the hotel and the process of getting the new remodeled rooms ready for the re grand opening. After 2 years of being a room attendant I got promoted to housekeeping supervisor and have been in this position for 4 years. I truly love it . I am so grateful and happy that this hotel gives their associates the opportunity to move up or change departments within the hotel and not just that but give the training to grow even more. I really learned so much in my leadership training. I never thought that I'd love the hospitality business. Maybe one day you will see me in a different department or position. Never be afraid to succeed!”
Alejandra Hernandez
Housekeeping Supervisor
“My first 5 minutes at the St. Anthony Hotel.
As I stood in Front of the first Air-condition Historic Hotel Building built in 1909, I felt proud to be witnessing history in front of me. As I began to walk up the steps, I was greeted by 2 gentlemen known as valet attendants who opened the double doors for me & welcomed me inside the St. Anthony Hotel.
My eyes sparkled as I walked into the St. Anthony Hotel for the first time. The beauty of the draper green ambience & remembering the S. A. history when I was a child, teenager & adult was now part of me.
I was immediately welcomed by a kind gentleman known as a bellhop with a smile the size of the S.A River who asked me if there was anything I would care for, perhaps a beverage, snack or meal.
Immediately I knew the St. Anthony Hotel would be my home away from home. I knew my personal goal to Help, Serve and Protect as many people as I could in the same way I care for my own family & assist for my community would smoothly flow well with the first 5 minutes of my experience of The St. Anthony Hotel. I was Captured & I was eager to experience the rest of my day & future of employment At a Luxury Collection Hotel known as The St. Anthony Hotel located in San Antonio TX.”
Enrique Martinez Jr
Loss Prevention Officer
”Even though I had no hospitality background, I was given the opportunity to bring my Human Resources experience to the hotel and I was told “We need something different, a different perspective to our world” and well that is exactly what I knew I could bring, and that helped me to feel comfortable and accepted by this new arena.
I thank Mr. Bazar for being open and giving me a chance to bring something different!
Berenice Villamil
Human Resources Director
“I truly love working at the St. Anthony. I have a passion for working in the hospitality industry, particularly as concierge. Our hotel places a tremendous emphasis on creating a true luxury experience for our guests. As members of the St. Anthony team, the task falls to us to provide the level of service that makes this possible. This is a welcome challenge for me; one that keeps me inspired to perform at my best on a daily basis.
It is a privilege to be in a position to meet so many different people from around the world and get to take part in helping our guests create memorable experiences at our hotel. It is a great feeling when I hear guests talk about their stay with us and how unforgettable it was, knowing that I had some small part in making this happen.
One of my favorite memories is when a guest called me in advance because he was celebrating an anniversary with his wife and wanted to make it special. Prior to their arrival, we were able to decorate the room with amenities from her favorite wine to her favorite chocolates. Also placed in the room was a beautiful floral arrangement in a glass vase with custom engraving to commemorate their anniversary. The highlight of the occasion, however, was the following evening. Upon returning to the hotel from dinner, we had arranged to have a violinist who happened to be their favorite country/western artist perform for them in Peacock Alley. We were able to video the couple as they danced to their favorite songs. It was a remarkable and unforgettable experience. The guests will remember this for the rest of their lives and I feel privileged to have been a part of it. It's a great memory for me as well!”
Jeff Moon
Concierge, Les Clef d’Or USA, LTD.
“After spending 18 years in the Finance/Banking industry, I knew I was ready for change. I wanted something different, something exciting and challenging. Fourteen months ago if you had told me I would be working at The St. Anthony Hotel moreover the Hospitality industry; my rebuttal would have been “not me” or “you’re out of your mind.”
The St. Anthony Hotel is the epitome of luxury and oozes history at the seams and one of a kind stories. “Oh, and does this hotel have stories to tell.” Did you know that the hotel is over 111 years old? Or that The St. Anthony Hotel was the first fully functioning air-conditioned hotel in the world? Neither me. Never a history buff, but as I started to dive deeper and deeper into the history; I fell in love with it and The St. Anthony Hotel.
Every role here is critical. Hired as a Laundry Attendant, I knew my role was essential and took pride in my work. Unfortunately, life throws you curve balls; this curve ball we called “Covid-19.” After a short three weeks in the housekeeping department the hotel was forced to shut down. But I was patient. I knew the St. Anthony Hotel would bounce back, like it always had in the past. Sure enough, three months later there was announcement of a “re-opening!” Talk about being “stoked” to return to work. After three months of twiddling my thumbs I received a call back but not to return to laundry but as a Loss Prevention Officer. I jumped at the opportunity. After serving the Security Department for eight months I was recognized for my efforts and achievements and was called upon once again.
Alas, I write from my current position in the Human Resources Department as a Human Resources Coordinator. Having achieved one of my life long goals to work for a premier company that genuinely cares for their associates and values what each one of us brings to the table.”
Jacob R. Caudillo
Human Resources Coordinator
Working at the St. Anthony Hotel has been an incredible journey—one that has allowed me to grow, learn, and thrive. From my humble beginnings in the security department to my current role as Director of Restaurants, I've witnessed firsthand how hard work and dedication can truly make a difference.
When I first joined the St. Anthony Hotel, I was entrusted with running the Loss Prevention department. It was a challenging yet rewarding experience. I learned the importance of vigilance, teamwork, and maintaining a safe environment for our guests and staff.
Within a year, I was promoted to Assistant Front Office Manager. This role allowed me to interact more closely with guests, ensuring their stay was seamless and memorable. I honed my communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail.
The following year brought another opportunity—the position of Housekeeping Manager. Managing a team responsible for maintaining the hotel's cleanliness was no small feat. But I embraced it wholeheartedly. I learned about efficiency, organization, and motivating my team to deliver exceptional service.
With each promotion came new responsibilities. As Senior Assistant Front Office Manager, I oversaw guest check-ins, concierge services, and guest satisfaction. The St. Anthony Hotel's commitment to excellence fueled my drive to excel further.
And now, in my most current role as Director of Restaurants, I'm responsible for creating unforgettable dining experiences for our guests. From fine dining to casual eateries, I ensure our restaurants reflect the hotel's reputation for excellence.
The St. Anthony Hotel isn't just a workplace—it's a community where hard work is celebrated and growth is nurtured. I'm proud to be part of this legacy, and I look forward to continuing my journey here.
Nickolas K. Burns
Director of Restaurants