World Heritage Office Reintroduces Ambassador Program
Published on October 01, 2026
New interactive online program offers a journey behind San Antonio’s UNESCO World Heritage Site designation.
SAN ANTONIO (October 1, 2026) — The City of San Antonio World Heritage Office, in partnership with Visit San Antonio, has officially announced the return of its World Heritage Ambassador Program. Designed to cultivate community pride and education advocacy, the relaunched initiative offers residents, tour guides, and cultural enthusiasts an in-depth opportunity to expand their understanding of San Antonio’s UNESCO World Heritage Site designation and the efforts that earned it.
“Our World Heritage Ambassadors serve as the heart of the San Antonio community’s storytelling,” said Colleen Swain, Director of the World Heritage Office. “By reintroducing the program, we are empowering local champions with the knowledge and resources to share our city’s rich cultural history, share information about world heritage and the area surrounding the sites, and welcome visitors from around the globe.”
In 2015, San Antonio’s five Spanish colonial missions, which include Missions San José, San Juan, Concepcion, Espada, and the world-renowned Alamo, were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. San Antonio is the only city in Texas with a World Heritage Site designation, and just one of 26 in the United States.
The updated World Heritage Ambassador Program features interactive online course options tailored for both new and returning participants. An in-person course option will also be planned to begin in the new year. In addition, program participants will engage with the San Antonio community through volunteer opportunities at World Heritage Office events. The program is available at no cost to those who complete the San Antonio Hospitality Champion Program (SA Champs), offered by Visit San Antonio.
“The World Heritage Ambassador Program gives our local SA Champs the tools and confidence to share the story of the San Antonio Missions authentically,” said Mario Bass, President and CEO of Visit San Antonio. “They will ensure every resident and visitor understands what makes the UNESCO World Heritage Site designation so extraordinary and why it is worth exploring each of the five missions.”
Registration for the World Heritage Ambassador Program is now available. To learn more about eligibility or to sign up, visit the World Heritage Ambassador Program website.