About Us
The American Turkish Association of San Antonio is an inclusive organization that warmly welcomes individuals from all religions, backgrounds, and national origins. Our shared passion for Turkish culture and history unites us. We invite everyone—whether born or raised in Türkiye, those who have visited and fallen in love with the country, individuals who have served or worked in Türkiye with cherished memories, and those eager to learn more about Türkiye.
As a non-profit organization, we operate without a political agenda and do not engage in political, religious, or legislative activities. Our focus is on fostering intercultural connections, providing educational opportunities, and promoting social engagement.
A non-profit organization, ATA-SA, relies on donations and gifts to have the financial capability to carry out its activities.
HOW DID WE START?
In the early 1960s, a young Turkish professor came to San Antonio to establish the first Engineering Department at St. Mary’s University, where very few Turkish natives resided. In the following years, Prof. Turgut M. Ozan successfully developed the Engineering Department, got married, and alongside his wife, Sevin, began reaching out to the growing population of Turkish Americans. After bringing the Turkish American community together through informal celebrations and dinners, Dr. Turgut Ozan and Sevin Ozan decided to form an organization dedicated to this purpose. The American Turkish Association of San Antonio (Named Turkish American Association of San Antonio back then) was founded as a non-profit Texas organization in 1986, with Prof. Ozan as its first elected President.
Since then, we have been proudly serving Turkish Americans and friends of Türkiye in the greater San Antonio area.
MISSION
Our mission is to enhance understanding and foster positive relations between the peoples of Türkiye and the United States, inspired by the ideals of our founding father, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. We aim to increase public knowledge of Turkish culture and history while serving the Turkish-American community and friends of Türkiye in the greater San Antonio area. Through organizing social and intercultural activities that celebrate special holidays, we actively participate in cultural and educational events—such as festivals, parades, and school functions—to represent and promote Türkiye, its rich culture, and its history.
VISION
To cultivate a vibrant, inclusive community where the rich cultural heritage of Türkiye, inspired by the principles of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, is celebrated and embraced. We envision a future where understanding and appreciation between the peoples of Türkiye and the United States flourish through active engagement, meaningful connections, and shared experiences. Our goal is to be a leading force in fostering intercultural dialogue and unity, creating a lasting impact on both the Turkish-American community and the broader society.