UTA'S E-NEWSLETTER FOR STUDENTS
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TUESDAY, NOV. 18, 2025
🦃 The UTA Thanksgiving dinner began in 2017 as an annual potluck, bringing the campus community together for a Thanksgiving experience.
Today's Trailblazer is 1008 words, a four-minute read.
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New date for spring 2026 commencement ceremonies
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UTA will host its spring 2026 commencement ceremonies on Sunday, May 3, at Globe Life Field in Arlington. The original tentative ceremony date, Friday, May 8, is unavailable, as Globe Life Field will host Texas Rangers home games that weekend. UTA’s campus leaders, in consultation with our commencement team, explored all possible alternatives and determined May 3 to be our best option.
Final exams will still take place from April 30 to May 6 as listed on UTA’s spring 2026 academic calendar. Please note that participation in commencement does not constitute completion of your program. All coursework and degree requirements must be completed to ensure conferral of your degree.
We recognize that you may have questions and concerns as a result of changes to anticipated graduation event dates. For answers to frequently asked questions, please visit us online.
The Maverick community looks forward to celebrating our spring 2026 graduates, and we will work diligently to update you and committed to collaboratively minimize disruption to expected year-end activities with the spring 2026 term. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
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Meet Iris: your on-campus headshot booth
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In need of a professional headshot? Look no further than the Iris booth, your self-serve, high-quality photo studio made simple.
Why it matters: The Iris booth makes it easy to capture the perfect headshot without an appointment, photographer—or the stress.
Going deeper: The built-in studio lighting ensures your photos always look sharp, professional, and polished. With easy on-screen instructions, the booth guides you through each step; adjust your pose, experiment with expressions, and retake as many photos as you like.
If you require an accommodation or assistance, contact the Career Services front desk or the Campus Information Center after 5 p.m. and on weekends.
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The National Pan-Hellenic Council Homecoming Step Show brought students, alumni, and community members together Friday to celebrate Black Greek 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 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 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.
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Preview the Holiday Glass Art Sale & Fundraiser
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You're invited to an exclusive preview and early purchase event for the UTA Holiday Glass Art Sale & Fundraiser.
Why it matters: Every purchase you make directly supports our students and studio. Half of the proceeds go to the artists themselves, while the rest fund scholarships, raw materials, equipment, and continued studio development.
Going deeper: What began in the 90s as a small fundraiser—founded by David Keens—on the Fine Arts Building loading dock has grown into one of UTA’s most anticipated art events of the year. Come support our nationally recognized program.
Important Details: The preview event will be hosted Friday, Dec. 5, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the UTA Studio Arts Center. All faculty, staff, and students are invited. Please bring your UTA ID for entry. This is a cashless event.
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UTA radio wins national honors
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UTA Radio earned national recognition at MediaFest 2025, hosted by the College Media Association in Washington, D.C.
Why it matters: The student-run station won first place for best commercial and second place for best PSA, and was named Audio Outlet of the Year. These awards highlight the professionalism of UTA’s student media programs and the faculty mentorship that supports their success.
Going deeper: Four UTA Radio students represented the Department of Communication and the College of Liberal Arts at the conference, connecting with peers and industry professionals while showcasing their talent and creativity on a national stage.
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🎬 Join Counseling and Psychological Services ambassadors at the Planetarium for a Destress Movie Night featuring the Academy Award 2024 Best Animated film, Flow. Grab some free snacks and let go of stress as you laugh, reflect, and unwind. While the event is free, limited space is available. RSVP via MavEngage. Wednesday, Nov. 19.
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👟 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.
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🎓 Get those grad caps decorated. The Grad Cap Contest is accepting submissions until Monday, Dec. 1. Your unique design could win you a prize package and frame for your new diploma.
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👨🔬 Research Integrity: Meeting Compliance Requirements for Regulated Research Activities presents an overview of federal regulations and procedures for conduct of regulated research activities, including human subject, animal, and recombinant DNA research. This workshop is open to all students, faculty, and staff. RSVP is required for in-person attendance. Friday, Nov. 21.
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❤️ 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.
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👩🎓 Graduating seniors, don't forget to apply for the Maverick Advantage Distinction by Friday, Nov 21. This is an opportunity for you to showcase that you are confident, career-ready, and clear about the person you want to be in the world.
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The University of Texas at Arlington
701 S. Nedderman Drive | Arlington, TX 76019 US
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