At BASIS San Antonio Shavano, Head of School Nelly Rovira finds structure, focus, and happiness through the discipline of martial arts. Over spring break, she traveled overseas to compete in the Acropolis International Wushu Open Tournament in Athens, Greece – an event that drew more than 2,000 athletes from over 120 countries across a wide range of martial arts disciplines.
While spring break is often a time for rest and relaxation, Rovira embraces the rigor and intensity of competition. “I wouldn’t have it any other way,” she says. “There’s a unique discipline required to manage a full day of school activities and commitments, then still grab your training bag and go practice. It keeps me grounded and reminds me what many families and faculty experience with their own children every day.”
With more than a decade of leadership experience at BASIS Texas Charter Schools, Rovira leads through example and service-oriented leadership. “To build trust, you have to model the behaviors you wish to see in others,” she explains – a principle that echoes in the classroom and the dojo.
Rovira’s martial arts journey began when she was 12 years old on the island of Puerto Rico, where she discovered a local dojo and dedicated herself to mastering diverse styles including Tai Chi, Kung Fu, and Wushu. Despite the physical demands and time commitment, she believes that success in both martial arts and leadership depends on one thing: balance.
Her students and colleagues know Rovira for her calm, fair approach, and steadfast support. Through martial arts, she has developed techniques to manage and deflect challenges with composure – a skill that proves invaluable in her role as Head of School. A martial arts instructor herself, she enjoys watching students grow in confidence and discipline through extracurricular opportunities beyond academics.
Following the three-day tournament in Athens, Rovira returned to Texas carrying four gold medals and one silver, triumphing over competitors from Italy, France, Great Britain, Spain, and Greece. Her accolades already include four Panamerican Championship Golds, World Martial Arts Champion, Martial Arts Hall of Fame Inductee, and a spot on the USA Wushu Kungfu Federation National Team.
Despite this long list of achievements, Rovira shows no sign of slowing down. Expect to see her continue competing – and representing BASIS San Antonio Shavano with the same determination and grace that have defined her martial arts journey and school leadership.
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