UTA'S E-NEWSLETTER FOR FACULTY AND STAFF

THURSDAY, DEC. 11, 2025

🎓 The first graduating class of Arlington College, now UTA, completed its studies 127 years ago.

 

Today's MavWire is 616 words, a two-minute read.

Athletics

Set, hut! Nguyen named UTA flag football coach

Bringing a wealth of experience, Melinda Nguyen has been named the first-ever head coach of UTA's women's flag football program.

 

Why it matters: Nguyen will make history as the leader of Texas' first women’s flag football team at an NCAA Division I school.

 

Going deeper: Nguyen joins UTA after three seasons as the head coach at Kansas Wesleyan, where she went 49-17, going to the NAIA Flag Football Finals each season. She has also served as an offensive coordinator for the Philippines women’s national team and the assistant coach for the U.S. 15U junior national team that won a silver medal in the 2025 Junior International Cup. 

 

Read more about Nguyen here.

University News

DFW backs UTA research to bolster flood resilience

UTA researchers are set to enhance flood-warning tools and guide stormwater planning at one of the world’s busiest airports—DFW International Airport. 

 

Why it matters: This partnership with a major regional hub positions UTA as a leader in North Texas infrastructure and water management.  

 

Going deeper: Nick Fang, Water Engineering Research Center director, and his research team will develop strategies to stabilize eroding channels, enhance the airport’s flood-warning capabilities, and refine hydrologic designs.

 

Read about the partnership here.

Podcast

President Cowley shares highlights from UTA’s 130th anniversary

In the latest episode of Discovering the Maverick Factor, President Jennifer Cowley looks back at our 130th anniversary celebrations.

 

Why you should listen: President Cowley reflects on the myriad ways Mavericks have celebrated a big year, shares her favorite moments—from the Birthday Bash—to the creative commemorative merchandise—and looks ahead to the next 130 years of UTA. The future is bright. 😎

 

Listen now on YouTube and Spotify.

University News

UTA, FWISD partner to open early college pathway

UTA and Fort Worth Independent School District launched Direct to UTA: College Ready Career Bound, guaranteeing early admission for eligible students. 

 

Why it matters: This partnership is designed to expand college access, promote educational equity, and strengthen pathways from high school to higher education for Fort Worth students. 

 

Going deeper: The Direct to UTA initiative includes school districts across the Dallas-Fort Worth region. It also strengthens UTA’s role as a leading public research university serving the North Texas region. 

 

Read more about the program here.

Mav Bites

🔎 Make your final MavPossible push. The scavenger hunt runs through Monday, Dec. 15. You still have time to learn about our shared values, and win prizes.

🏦  A new rule under the SECURE 2.0 Act will impact how employees age 50-plus can make catch-up contributions to their retirement plans. The changes will go into effect Thursday, Jan. 1.

👨‍🍳 Step into the Technology Test Kitchen, an interactive space where faculty can explore digital tools and learn practical strategies for integrating technology into their teaching. Starting Thursday, Jan. 15, the hands-on sessions will be held at Trinity Hall Tech"Know"ledgy Bar from 1-2 p.m.

📨 The “Report” button will replace the “Report Phishing” button across all Outlook platforms at UTA Tuesday, Dec. 16. Users will be able to use the consolidated “Report” button to submit emails as either phishing or junk. 

🎟 For a limited time, you can get $1 tickets to Maverick basketball games through the Holiday Hoops Special. Bring your family and friends and pack College Park Center as we celebrate the season with unbeatable hoops and unbeatable prices.

🙏 Ready to high-five someone today? Give a coworker a virtual high-five by submitting a Digital Recognition Card. It’s a powerful way to celebrate those who go above and beyond—lifting others up and making a real difference. To learn more about the digital form watch How to High Five.

Upcoming Events

FRIDAY, DEC. 12

Fall 2025 Commencement: College of Science, College of Engineering, and College of Architecture, Planning, and Public Affairs. Starting at 9 a.m.

Fall 2025 Commencement: College of Business, College of Education, College of Liberal Arts, Division of Student Success. Starting at 2 p.m.

Fall 2025 Commencement: School of Social Work and College of Nursing and Health Innovation. Starting at 7 p.m.

SATURDAY, DEC. 13

10th Annual Typography Exhibition

Full calendar >

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The University of Texas at Arlington

701 S. Nedderman Drive | Arlington, TX 76019 US