UTA'S E-NEWSLETTER FOR FACULTY AND STAFF

THURSDAY, NOV. 20, 2025

🦃 Don't burn the turkey waiting for MavWire and Trailblazer next week. We will return Monday, Dec. 1.

Today's MavWire is 1,044 words, a four-minute read.

UTA Culture

Commencement volunteer signup is now open

Blaze and a U T A graduate flex their muscles

Graduation season is here, and UTA's fall 2025 commencement ceremonies are just around the corner. Please consider pitching in to make this the Maverick community's happiest day of the year.

Why it matters: You can sign up today and help ensure our newest Mav grads' commencement experience is a magical one. There are several opportunities to make an impact.

Going deeper: You can set up on load-in day, help guide our graduates, or celebrate your favorite Mav Grads at any or all of our three ceremonies on commencement day at Globe Life Field Friday, Dec. 12.

Recognition

Last chance to nominate an Outstanding Maverick

A facilities management electrician works on a light for the Cooper Street bridge

Nominations for the Outstanding Maverick Awards are open now through Friday, Nov. 21. Don't miss this opportunity to recognize your fellow colleagues.

Why it matters: Each year, we recognize our employees whose exceptional achievements make a lasting impact at UTA. Help celebrate the dedication and Maverick spirit that make UTA extraordinary.

Going deeper: The awards are open to all levels of employees, recognizing meaningful contributions across the entire University. Awards are aligned with UTA's Shared Values—Collaboration, Engagement, Excellence, Innovation, and Integrity. Honorees will be announced in spring 2026. Individual recipients may receive up to $1,000; leaders will receive a plaque, while the winning team will share $2,500.

University News

From the front lines to the archives at UTA

Photo from the Vietnam War collection of U.S. soldiers resting on a hill.

Legendary journalist Bob Schieffer donated his Vietnam collection, capturing the lives and voices of Texas soldiers, to UTA Libraries' Special Collections.

Why it matters: The Bob Schieffer Vietnam War Collection provides a glimpse into the experiences of soldiers in Vietnam from late 1965 through early 1966, as the war shifted from a limited advisory effort to a large-scale ground war.

Going deeper: A free exhibit, Our Man in Vietnam, will open in January 2026 and showcase materials from Schieffer's collection.

Important details: Schieffer will return to campus as the featured guest for UTA’s Maverick Speakers Series event Feb. 10, 2026. Tickets are available now. For more information about the exhibit, visit the website.

Recognition

UTA faculty named to Arlington’s 40-Under-40

Photo of Yue Liao performing exercise research.

Two UTA faculty members were highlighted for their achievements as burgeoning professionals. Yue Liao and Allison Sullivan made Arlington’s 40-Under-40 list for 2025.

Why it matters: These two rising researchers exemplify UTA’s push in impactful research. Their recognition highlights the faculty UTA attracts: those at the cutting edge, recognized locally and relevant globally.

Going deeper: Their work spans wearable sensor health research and interactive software modeling tools. Both are advancing their fields for a better, more prepared tomorrow.

Read more about Dr. Liao's most recent research here and Dr. Sullivan's software modeling tool here.

Homecoming Recap

Stepping into legacy

Photo collage of The Zeta Mus and Iota Alphas celebrating their win.

The National Pan-Hellenic Council Homecoming Step Show brought students, alumni, and community members together Friday to celebrate tradition and excellence with the theme “Ease on Down the Culture.”

The Zeta Mus of Alpha Kappa Alpha stepped up to the plate and out-slugged other sororities with their baseball-themed routine to take home the top prize. Their theme focused on the first professional women's baseball players, who broke barriers and challenged societal norms during the 20th century.

In its first step show appearance at UTA, the Iota Alpha chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi took home the trophy and paid homage to its legacy. The performance also marked the first time in two decades that the chapter had been in a step show.

"It's really an honor," said Jonathan Stokes, a junior criminal justice major. "To be able to break those barriers? That's something that's a good accomplishment."

Their cane-breaking UTA debut earned them first place and a $5,000 prize, with widespread support from the packed Texas Hall audience.

Photo collage of divine nine organizations at the step show.

UTA Culture

Make a difference with Socks for Service

Photo of socks donated to UTA Veteran's Upward Bound.

Donate a pair of new socks today to help support our local homeless veterans.

Why it matters: Socks are one of the most frequently requested items at shelters. They are vital to preventing serious health issues related to frostbite, infections, and blisters. Clean, dry socks provide comfort, a sense of dignity, and can encourage those in need to seek further assistance.

Important information: This sock drive was organized by UTA Veterans Upward Bound. The socks will be donated to homeless veterans at the Liberty House in Fort Worth. You can make donations at the following locations:

Military and Veteran Services.
The Follett Student Leadership Center, University Center, room 180.
Carlisle Hall, room 706.
Financial Aid Office, University Adminstration Building.

Donations will be accepted until Wednesday, Dec. 10.

Mav Bites

👟 Donate a pair of gently used or new shoes during the Homecoming Shoe Drive. Your donation is much more than a pair of shoes; it offers dignity, hope, and a chance for renewal to those facing unimaginable hardships. Collection will take place through Friday, Nov. 21, at the University Center and the Maverick Activities Center.

🦃 Faculty, staff, and guests are invited to attend the annual campus-wide Thanksgiving Dinner. A $11.39 (plus tax) dinner charge will be required at the door for those without a meal plan. Tuesday, Nov. 25.

👨‍🔬 The Office of Research and Innovation is excited to announce that the Research Enhancement Program (REP) is now open for 26-27 REP Proposals. Take this opportunity to collect data and develop proposals for future extramural funding. The submission deadline is Friday, Dec. 5.

❤️ Help restock the Maverick Food Pantry with the Fill the Pantry, Fill the Heart food drive. No Maverick should worry about putting food on the table, and by donating the most needed items, we can assist our UTA community. Donate today through Monday, Nov. 24.

☀️ UTA employees get exclusive early access to register for 2026 Kids & Teens University summer camps offered by the Extended and Extension Campus' Continuing Education. Public registration goes live Monday, Dec. 1.

⛄ You're invited to an exclusive preview and early purchase event for the UTA Holiday Glass Art Sale & Fundraiser. Every purchase you make directly supports our students and studio. The event will be hosted Friday, Dec. 5, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Studio Arts Center. All faculty, staff, and students are invited. Please bring your UTA ID for entry. This is a cashless event.