We change individual lives by developing superior skills, knowledge, and character.
For 55 years, we have been driven by a mission – to change lives. As a private, non-profit, faith-based workforce development institution, everything we do revolves around our core values of integrity, excellence, efficiency, and effectiveness. We distinguish ourselves through our commitment to innovative academic degree programs, our alignment with our industry partners whom we serve as our primary customers, and the development of character in every student.
Download the Mission Statement Worksheet: HERE
Our Purpose
Our academic programs emphasize building and developing the core values that can positively impact your studies, life, and work. This is memorialized in Hallmark University’s Purpose, “To nurture the discovery and development of one’s greater purpose, through undergraduate and graduate education, consistent with biblical principles.”
Download the Purpose Statement Worksheet: HERE
Foundational Biblical Principles: 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NASB
“Love is patient, love is kind, it is not jealous; love does not brag, it is not arrogant. It does not act disgracefully, it does not seek its own benefit; it is not provoked, does not keep an account of a wrong suffered, it does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; it keeps every confidence, it believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”
Our Programs
We offer degree programs in only four areas of study for a reason; we want to be the best at what we do. We take a quality over quantity approach to ensure that every program we offer reflects a high level of expertise and strong graduate outcomes. We look at the San Antonio community for direction as to which industries are in need of experienced professionals. These are the industries we build our programs for. All Hallmark University programs have character development integrated in their academic curriculum.
School of Information Technology:
The School of Information Technology prepares students for career opportunities in cybersecurity, information systems, and other I.T. fields through accelerated I.T. degree programs. Multiple industry certifications are included in every information technology degree program, and many are covered by tuition. Our program is guided by a group of I.T. industry experts who help shape our curriculum, ensuring course material is in direct alignment with the needs of the I.T. job market.
College of Aeronautics:
Hallmark University’s College of Aeronautics is focused on training students to earn their FAA Airframe and Powerplant Certification. The accelerated degree program is designed to allow students to get their degree, earn their A&P Certification, and get to work in under 2 years. Our aircraft technician school is designed for those looking for hands-on training on real aviation equipment in a technical environment.
School of Nursing:
At Hallmark University, we designed our simulation labs and facilities to look and feel just like the hospitals and modern healthcare facilities our graduates will be working in. Our nursing students practice and enhance their understanding of medical techniques by applying knowledge learned on life-like models and high-fidelity mannequins. Our accelerated nursing programs are year-round. We prepare nurses that are qualified and can adapt to stressful and shifting environments.
School of Business:
We believe in going beyond computer simulations and providing students with the opportunity to develop business proposals, consult with real companies, and make presentations to boards from the school and the local businesses through our Hallmark Consulting Group. The School of Business at Hallmark University stands out in San Antonio because of our accelerated curriculum and carefully designed course layout.
Our Primary Customer
Industry – The customer that’s always right! 99.9% of our students come to Hallmark University seeking a high-growth, high-income career opportunity.
Hallmark University welcomes distinguished business leaders and subject matter experts to our campus for our Program Advisory Committee (PAC). Their valuable perspectives and advice play a pivotal role in shaping the future of education. They tell us the Hallmark University Character Education and Development program is the most important thing we do.
Who we Serve
City of San Antonio: Hispanic 65.8%, White 22.6%, African American 6.6%, Asian 3%, those in poverty 17.7%. Source: U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: San Antonio city, Texas
HU student body: Hispanic 59%, White 26%, African American 12%, other 3%, those in poverty 35%.
Hallmark Character Education and Development Programs (HCEDP)
Hallmark University is dedicated to transforming lives by fostering superior skills, knowledge, and character in both its students and employees. At the heart of this mission is a commitment to character development, embodied in the Hallmark Character Education and Development Programs (HCEDP). These programs promote a Culture of Character that sets Hallmark apart and aligns with the university’s core belief that character is fundamental to professional success and personal growth.
The foundation of this commitment is a set of seven essential character traits—Integrity, Dependability, Leadership, Service, Stewardship, Communication, and Agility—referred to as the Hallmarks of Character. These traits are grounded in extensive research and insights from employers and soft skills frameworks, reflecting what is most valued in today’s workforce. Hallmark University prioritizes the character development of all its graduates and employees, believing that individuals who embody these Hallmarks of Character will positively impact their homes, communities and workplaces.
Through the development of these core traits, Hallmark aims to build individuals who are equipped not only with technical knowledge and professional skills but with the ethical fortitude and resilience necessary for today’s dynamic environments. The Hallmark Character Education and Development Programs foster self-awareness, ethical decision-making, and a commitment to serving others—qualities essential to lifelong success and integrity in all endeavors. In creating a unified Culture of Character, Hallmark University enhances the quality of its academic and professional communities, serving the broader mission to “change individual lives by developing superior skills, knowledge, and character.”
Whatever it Takes
In the realm of academia, tradition and symbolism hold significant meaning. At Hallmark University, the value of tradition is deeply ingrained in its core beliefs. One such tradition that has been adopted is the distribution of Whatever it Takes (WIT) coins to all students, faculty, and staff. These small, commemorative challenge coins remind those who carry them to do Whatever it Takes to accomplish their dreams.
Hallmark University Character Building Toolbox
Crucible Moment
A crucible is a transformative experience, a defining or perhaps refining moment or life experience for which the only way out is usually through it. The crucibles often lead to changes in our character, lives, who we are, who we become, what mattered most then, and what matters most now. They can be a test of our patience, of our beliefs, of our values, and of our character. Few crucibles seem to happen for us, most seem to happen to us. When internalized, crucibles often change our behaviors. They can make us more caring, sincere, loving, and stronger. If we’re not solid and surrounded by those who willingly support us, they can also destroy us. Crucibles can impact all life domains: personal, family, community, business, career, and others.
$10 Generosity Initiative (Crucible Moment assignment #1, on our stewardship trait)
Each student is entrusted with a crisp $10 bill to keep on their person. Their task is to steward this resource by discerning the right opportunity to give it away in a meaningful manner. This involves identifying a recipient, recognizing their need, and presenting the $10 in a way that maximizes its positive impact. Students are encouraged to reflect deeply on their experience and report it using the following guidelines:
What was it about the individual that made you choose them?
What need did you feel the $10 would meet for them?
What did you say when you approached them?
How did they verbally respond to your approach and offer/gift? Based on their verbal response, how do you think the $10 offer/gift made them feel?
How did they physically (body language) respond to your approach and offer/gift? Based on their body language, how do you think the $10 offer/gift made them feel?
How did this experience make you feel?
Will this experience impact your feelings, thinking or behavior going forward? If so, in what ways. If not, why not?
$10 Generosity Initiative Testimonials
“This act of random kindness and generosity gave me a sense of belief in the goodness of all people. Also, I believe kindness can make the world a better place. By reaching out to others in generous ways you can make an impact in a person’s life. I plan on practicing this random act of kindness as often as possible to brighten a person’s day and to pay it forward to others. This experience gave me insight on how a small act of generosity can be an answer to a person’s prayer. Dorothy V. – new employee
“Giving, I understand now, isn’t a burden; it’s a privilege. It’s a chance to step outside our own insular worlds and acknowledge the intricate dance of lives that surround us. It’s about recognizing that within each of us, there’s a Leslie, a single mother juggling dreams and anxieties, and that sometimes, all it takes is a ten-dollar bill, a listening ear, or a simple act of kindness to turn the tide of their day. And in that small act of giving, we not only offer support, but also weave a tapestry of human connection, reminding ourselves that we are not alone, but strands in a vast, interconnected web of shared humanity.” Anthony G. new employee
Academic Character with Distinction (CWD) Recognition Program
Download the flyer: HERE
Character Continuum (Moving students/employees from left to right thinking, service over self.)
Superior Character
Superior Character is the result of a life-long effort (process) of developing and refining one’s moral and ethical qualities (core values) through critical and reflective thinking on lived experiences, and self-assessment of motives behind (driving) behaviors and emotional responses (self-control).
The development of superior character results in an individual who:
- Has a full understanding of what they view as right and wrong.
- Incorporates the seven Hallmarks of Character traits into their decision-making process and how they react to life’s circumstances.
- Understands character building is a never-ending process to build emotional trust with others through decision-making that values others.
- Has the forethought to consider how one’s actions may impact others.
- Analyzes whether their actions and decisions reflect those of the person they want to become.
- Reflects on prior choices and decisions, then analyzes if their current set of moral considerations/beliefs should be revised, reinterpreted, or changed.
Hallmarks of Character (Industry Provided Traits)
Integrity Definition
A person of integrity exhibits self-control, does the right and good thing regardless of who is watching or if it is deserved, and always seeks and speaks the truth to build up and not tear down.
Integrity Verse
Titus 2:7-8 (ESV): “Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us.”
Dependable Definition
A dependable person is reliable, follows through with commitments, never gives up, and does whatever it takes to always produce.
Dependable Verse
Proverbs 25:13-14 (MSG): “Reliable friends who do what they say are like cool drinks in sweltering heat—refreshing! Like billowing clouds that bring no rain is the person who talks big but never produces. “
LEADER DEFINITION
A leader creates value by recognizing opportunities for growth and improvement, then inspiring and developing others to achieve goals with excellence.
LEADERSHIP VERSES
Philippians 2:3-5 (MSG): “Do not push your way to the front; do not sweet-talk your way to the top. Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead. Do not be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand. Think of yourselves the way Christ Jesus thought of himself.”
Psalm 78:72 (AMP): “So David shepherded them according to the integrity of his heart; And guided them with his skillful hands.”
SERVANT DEFINITION
A servant serves with the purpose of benefiting others. Through compassion, servants understand the needs of others and humbly give assistance.
SERVANT VERSE
Mark 10:45 (GNV): “For even the Son of man came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life for the ransom of many.”
STEWARD DEFINITION
A steward efficiently invests available resources to effectively produce excellent results, creating maximum value.
STEWARD VERSE
Matthew 25:23 (AMP): “His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful and trustworthy over a little, I will put you in charge of many things; share in the joy of your master.”
COMMUNICATOR DEFINITION
An effective communicator first understands others, then thoughtfully chooses persuasive and truthful words that move towards mutual understanding and a beneficial end.
COMMUNICATION VERSES
James 1:19 ESV: “Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger;”
Colossians 4:6 ESV: “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.”
Hebrews 10:24-25: “And let us consider how to stir up one another to good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”
Ephesians 4:29: “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”
Colossians 4:6 ESV: “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.”
AGILITY DEFINITION
An agile person innovates and adapts from the foundation of character within a continuously changing environment.
Agility Verse
Isaiah 43:19 (NLT): “For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.”
Character Progression Assignments
Compulsory Employee C-360 Character Boot Camps
Compulsory Student C-360 Boot Camps
Defining Issues Test (DIT2)
Employee Character Composite Scoring System
Employee Compulsory Character Education and Development Program
HUMA 1347 Introduction to Character & Ethics
Student Character Composite Scoring System
Campus Ministry
Hallmark University’s Campus Ministry, rooted in Judeo-Christian faith and founded on the principles of 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, provides voluntary opportunities for students, staff, and faculty to deepen their spiritual growth, leadership, and character development. Our ministry offerings include:
- 1347 Gatherings – Held twice monthly, these 30-minute worship services feature worship songs, a short message, and fellowship in a bring-your-own-lunch (BYOL) format. They serve as a time of encouragement and reflection for all participants.
- Biblical Leadership for Excellence – This curriculum includes studies like Investing My Life, with chapters such as investing time, investing in relationships, and resources in ways that align with biblical teachings. Through this curriculum, participants are equipped to lead with purpose and integrity and have an opportunity to formulate a life philosophy.
- Foundations of the Gospel – A study series on core Christian teachings, guiding participants through Jesus’ life and mission, from His role as a healer and teacher to His redemptive work. This series invites personal reflection and connection with foundational gospel messages.
- Discipleship Essentials – A one-year workbook by Greg Ogden, offered to all students and employees, provides structured discipleship to build one’s life in Christ through a guided study that encourages deeper faith integration.
- Prayer and Spiritual Support – Students and employees have open access to personal support from the Chaplain, with options to meet in person or request prayer through phone, email, or text, promoting a nurturing and faith-centered community.
Hallmark University’s Campus Ministry fosters personal, character, and spiritual growth, aligned with our commitment to Judeo-Christian values and optional for all stakeholders, empowering them to integrate faith and a greater purpose into their lives.
What Students are Saying about the compulsory C-360 Character Boot Camp:
Being able to play games to learn things was great. The games made the lesson more hands-on which made it easier for me to remember.
I liked how engaged the presenter was with the class and how he had games to act as examples of CLASSID (Communication, Leadership, Servant, Stewardship, Integrity, Dependable).
I liked how we applied what we learned through the use of team games.
I liked how we were able to interact with each other in one of the games. It gave us the opportunity to talk and work with each other as a team.
I liked that our teams were randomized therefore we were able to learn more about others. I made new connections and understood different perspectives when it came to sensitive topics. This was shown in group conversations.
I liked the group game, rolling the balls down the ramps to get to the basket. It showed us how to work as a team and communicate with each other to get more efficient.
I liked the interactive games and groupings.
I really enjoyed the games, getting to work with more of my classmates that I haven’t yet met.
I really enjoyed the hands-on activities that promoted collaboration. It’s a skill that must be exercised for the workforce and it brought about lifelike experiences.
I really liked the communication side of it, I really liked the domino Game as you were forced to communicate with your teammate as that was the only way to get points.
It was fun and engaging with the exercises, and well informed about what you will be using the information for future career.
The activities were my favorite part as it was engaging, and you could see and use the character traits in real-time.
The activity was fun and engaging.
The games and how they are related to the character program.
The one thing I like about boot camp was the fact the teacher had so many wise words to say and the activities they had for us.
The thing I like the most about boot camp was the game we played as a team in order for us to actually work together and think to progress every time we would do it over and over again.
The thing I liked most about the camp was how interactive the activities were. I like how Mr. Doug Heintz explained everything thoroughly.
What I liked most was the game involving everyone in the class. It was a great way to show how character is involved in teamwork.
What I liked most was the games because they perfectly showed all seven-character traits and how each trait improves different things.
I had a “AHA” moment when we were playing the ball game and noticed how all the character traits where playing a role in helping us be more efficient.
Everyone enjoyed playing the Game and discussing how we showed our traits.
The most memorable part of the boot camp was learning how to collaborate with your group in the games and figuring out ways to become more and more efficient.
I think the use of games to get students actively listening should be used even more in the future. Engagement helps get these topics to stick.
When we did the tunnel game with the balls. All the things he was talking about were shown by just playing.
We learned how to work together as teams during our last game.
Doug Heintz
Director of Institutional Character & Ethics and Chaplain
(m) 210-386-5775, (o) 210-969-7545
dheintz@hallmark.edu