UTSA honors legacy of culinary, entrepreneurial icon Rosemary Kowalski

Curated by the UTSA Libraries Special Collections, the exhibit will feature three sections representing Kowalski's life journey.

The first will explore her personal life, showcasing photographs of her as a young woman, family snapshots, early menu agendas, initial catering gigs, staff appreciation events and recipe cards.

The second section will spotlight Rosemary's catering services for first ladies Barbara Bush and Lady Bird Johnson, displaying photographs and keepsakes, including a complimentary letter from Johnson written shortly before her passing.

The final segment will highlight her work with VIPs and her charitable endeavors. This part of the exhibit will feature newspaper clippings from events such as the luncheon during Pope John Paul II's 1987 visit to San Antonio, menus from the 1978 Chrysanthemum Ball and the Texas State Senate proclamation honoring Kowalski as the recipient of the seventh annual Arthur O'Krent Humanitarian Award from the board of directors for Boysville.

"Rosemary's legacy as a pioneering businesswoman, entrepreneur, culinary star and civic leader is a vital part of San Antonio's narrative," said Amy Rushing, UTSA assistant vice provost of Special Collections. "We are honored to be custodians of her contributions and accomplishments, ensuring they are documented and preserved for future generations."