UTA'S E-NEWSLETTER FOR STUDENTS

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 29, 2025

🍫 Did you know that your Halloween chocolate dates back to around 1200 B.C.E.?

Today's Trailblazer is 773 words, a three-minute read.

Around Campus

UTA student sits in as president for the day

Photo collage of U T A President of the Day Muhammad Khurram doing executive tasks.

Muhammad Khurram, a standout computer science major, spent Tuesday serving as UTA president, while President Jennifer Cowley spent the day as a student, attending lectures and learning about software development.

Why it matters: As president, Khurram gained a new perspective on how UTA functions at the executive level to provide opportunities throughout campus and advance student success.

Going deeper: President Khurram's busy schedule included visiting the Studio Arts Gallery, discussing building communities and growth with Provost Tamara Brown and Vice President of Regional Campuses Wayne Atchley, and having lunch with the Division of Student Success to learn about programs like MavRise and talk about why student organizations matter.

Events

Halloween haunts on campus this week

U T A students dressed in Halloween costumes pose for a photo

Get into the Halloween spirit with several scary season events hosted on campus over the next few days.

Why it matters: This week is the perfect opportunity to get out in the community with your fellow Mavericks and enjoy everything UTA has to offer for fright night.

Going deeper: Whether you're gathering your ghouls for an evening of spine-chilling fun at Nightmare on UTA Blvd, taking in a crisp evening by trick-or-treating at the Great Pumpkin Carnival, or playing a hand at Halloween Casino Night, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Student Success

UTA honored with 2025 Star Award for student success

Photo of an advisor helping a U T A student

UTA is one of six institutions selected for the 2025 Star Awards by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

Why it matters: These annual awards recognize institutions that champion the state’s higher education goals. This year’s award prioritized three areas: student success, workforce education, and career development.

Going deeper: UTA’s Mavs RISE initiative is central to the Star Award recognition. It supports first-year students who are conditionally admitted or who have not yet completed the Texas Success Initiative. The program provides guidance to help students stay on track for academic advancement and succeed after graduation.

Events

Run the yellow brick road in the Homecoming 5k

Two 5K runners smile as they sprint down Nedderman Dr.

Join your fellow Mavericks for the annual Homecoming 5K and make a difference.

Why it matters: All proceeds from the race will go toward the UTA Emergency Assistance Fund, which helps students facing temporary financial hardship from sudden emergencies cover essentials.

Important info: Registration is open to all students. All walking, running, and rolling entries are accepted. There is a $20 registration fee for students.

University News

UTA earns elite status for cybersecurity research

Stock image of a person working on a computer

UTA’s Computer Science and Engineering Department has been named a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (NCAE-C) by the National Security Agency.

Why it matters: The NCAE-C program works to establish rigorous standards for cybersecurity education. It promotes competency development, community outreach, professional training, and the integration of cybersecurity principles across academic disciplines.

Going deeper: Read more about how this designation underscores the University’s academic and research leadership in this critical and expanding field.

Blaze Bites

📸 Last call for submissions for the See the Unseen photo competition.

All Mavericks with U.S. or international experiences are encouraged to participate. You can submit your photos until Friday, Oct. 31.

🎁 The First Generation College Celebration commemorates the signing of the Higher Education Act. First-generation graduate scholars are encouraged to stop by the EDGE Center Tuesday through Thursday, Nov. 4-6, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. to pick up a care package.

📚 Do you want to explore different academic fields and learn about the majors, minors, and certificates offered across campus? Come to the Major/Minor Exploration Fair Tuesday, Nov. 4, to see what path fits your goals.

🐴 Celebrate your Maverick pride at the Homecoming Tailgate after the parade and before the big game. Be sure to register your organization or group for a space today. Saturday, Nov. 15

🏃‍♀️ Join the Pink Out Stroll Off to raise awareness for breast cancer. Be sure to wear pink to show your support. A donation of $3 is required to enter, and all proceeds will go to Pink Warrior Angels charity. Thursday, Oct. 30.

🏛 UTA Student Government is seeking applicants for UT System student regent and student representative for the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. The representatives bring student perspectives to various issues in higher education. Apply for these positions today. The application deadline is Friday, Oct. 31.

💉 Free flu shots are being offered to students so you don't miss out on any classes or activities. Health Services recommends vaccination by the end of the month for maximum protection. Call Health Services to schedule your appointment. Flu shots will be offered while supplies last.