Harry, Chaparral Villages’ community cat most commonly referred to as “Chap Cat,” went missing in December of 2024 and has not been seen past then. Since his disappearance, the Roadrunner Cat Coalition has attempted to search for Chap Cat to no avail. Many have come to terms with the fact that he may be gone. Last week, on March 6, a memorial uniting students and staff was held for Harry outside of the Chaparral Village front office. People gathered and spoke of their experiences with him, made candles, wrote notes about what Harry meant to them and hung out to celebrate his life.
Harry was famous for hanging around the dining space, greeting people and spending nights in student dorms at the village. “Outside the dining hall, I saw people crowding around him, and I didn’t know we had cats on campus, so it was a nice surprise. He will be missed every day,” student Bianca Novak said of the first time she saw Harry.
Harry has contributed to the community at UTSA, simply through his presence. Chaparral Village Resident Attendant Gabriella De La Rosa spoke about how on the first night she spent at UTSA, Harry appeared on her doorstep, and she was able to connect with her roommate through him.
“We formed a bond over giving him some water and caring for him. I’m going to miss him,” said De La Rosa.
Harry was known for visiting people’s rooms. Student Shrinika Govin described Harry as “the most polite guest that has stayed the night,” and student Cora White called Harry her “ favorite furry friend” who would occasionally show up at her doorstep.”
Students outside of the village also treasured Harry; many coming to visit the area were greeted with his company, with Skyy Robertson explaining how he was “kinda a motivator to come to Chap more,” as every time she visited the village freshman year, “he came up and greeted” her.
Jason Lavery talked about how Harry comforted him after he “stayed up all night studying for a test,” making his night a little bit brighter.
Chap Cat made people’s days better for over eight years, serving as a genuine light for those greeted by him. Georgia Schmitt shared how she missed her cat very much, so “Harry was a good little stand in,” making her feel better whilst at college.
Many students have shared memories and joy with him, across the time he’s spent on campus. Harry’s years at UTSA made everyone’s day better, and he will be missed dearly by all who knew him.
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