Judge Renee A Yanta: A legacy of service and impact at University Health Foundation
What does a legacy of service mean to you? The answer can take many forms, especially when we think about people who have dedicated their lives to making a difference.
At University Health Foundation, we’re fortunate to have a close relationship with some of San Antonio’s most well-respected philanthropists, including Judge Renée A. Yanta.
Many know Renée as a super lawyer and former judge of the 150th District Court. Some of her former students may remember her as their high school history teacher. To those closest to her, she’s also a military brat, wife, mother and grandmother.
However, here at the Foundation she is the chair of our board and a committed donor. Over the last nine years, her contributions to our organization have been truly remarkable. With service intertwined into her life’s story, it is safe to say helping others is simply embedded in her DNA.
For more than 100 years, University Health has offered care to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. Their mission-driven medical teams work tirelessly to ensure patients and families receive the highest level of quality and compassionate care.
This mission resonates deeply with Renée, aligning perfectly with her personal motto: “Do justice. Love mercy. Walk humbly.” The six words guide her in both her career and philanthropy. While her resume is filled with impressive community efforts, at the heart of it all, her focus has always been on helping women, children and families succeed.
In 2016, Renée began donating her time and resources to University Health Foundation, eventually becoming Chair of the Board of Directors.
Over time, she has given regularly to many of our funds, but she is extremely proud of the $25,000 gift she and her husband, Virgil Yanta, made in 2023 to support University Health Women’s & Children’s Hospital. In recognition of their generosity, they named a room in the hospital.
The “Yanta Family Staff Lounge” was created to offer staff a sense of community and a place to rest and recharge.
The room is also a special tribute to Virgil’s first-born child and Renée’s “bonus daughter,” Holly Katherine Yanta, who passed away in 1999 at the age of 18. Inside the room are paintings of ladybugs by Claire Casseb Yanta, Virgil and Renée’s daughter-in-law. Ladybugs, which always brought a smile to Holly’s face, now serve as a symbol of her spirit, reminding the family that she continues to watch over them and the community.
“It’s been a great honor to work with the University Health Foundation. It is one of the most dedicated boards I’ve ever been a part of,” Renée said. “Looking back on my legacy, I hope Virgil and I can say we made a difference in Bexar County by advancing the mission of University Health.”
Renée’s advice to those considering giving back is simple.
“No matter where you are in life, University Health Foundation has a place where you can give,” Renée said.
As we continue to shape the future of health care in San Antonio, we invite you to join us in making a lasting impact, just as Renée has done.