Dear Mavericks,
As you head into finals and some of you prepare for graduation, I want to pause and simply say, “Well done.” Truly.
You learned new ways of thinking, discovered strengths you didn’t know you had, and balanced classes, friendships, responsibilities, jobs, and family. Whether you’re graduating from UTA or moving a big step closer to doing so, you should be proud of yourself.
A UTA education will make your life better. Mavericks are everywhere in Texas, turning their degrees and hard work into economic power and meaningful careers. Within five years, about one-third of our graduates are buying homes. First-generation graduates are reaching household incomes that approach—and often exceed—those of their parents in their first jobs after graduation. You’re studying your way to a better life.
We are in the midst of exciting changes at UTA. We have added more green space, replacing the old Smart Hospital next to Texas Hall with the new Pachl Park. We added a disc golf course in Doug Russell Park. And we’re improving the greenbelt behind the MAC, leveling the ground, planting more grass, and adding outdoor student seating. The goal is to create more informal recreation areas for students to enjoy.
More changes are coming, especially at the University Center. This summer, we will begin demolition on the west side of the UC. (The east side of the building, which includes Connection Café, Bluebonnet Ballroom, Rosebud Theater, Follett Student Leadership Center, and the Career Development Center, will remain open.) When this massive renovation is complete, we’ll have more meeting and event space, a computer lab, and expanded dining and common areas—all to create a better experience for studying, people-watching, and coffee-drinking.
