It is hard to believe that two years have passed since I joined UTA. What we have accomplished together as a community has been nothing short of remarkable. We have deepened our commitment to student success, launched new efforts to enhance our innovation and discovery, and fostered community engagement from service learning in classes to new internship opportunities.
As we announced in March, we have also launched our new strategic plan, UTA 2030: Shared Dreams, Bright Future. This plan lays the framework for our big dreams as a community, from the success of all our students to our engagement with alumni and partners.
In alignment with our big goals in UTA 2030, this semester was a remarkable one. We held a community-wide Solar-bration as we came together to view the once-in-a-lifetime eclipse passing over Arlington. We broke ground on the new student housing project, Maverick Hall; watched the launch of UTA’s episode on Amazon Prime’s The College Tour; and cheered as all four of our basketball teams competed in championship tournaments.
We were honored with the First-Gen Forward designation from the First Scholars Network for our exemplary programming and support for first-generation student success. Our services for veteran and military-connected students continued to receive top rankings nationally. Our students achieved renowned fellowships in fields from transportation to atomic energy, engaged in new research, and expanded internship opportunities through our Career Development Center. The success of our students continues to inspire me.
This semester also marked a pivotal moment for improving our buildings, as we began renovating our Life Science Building and broke ground on Maverick Hall, which is a new residence hall for students. In addition, our students passed a referendum to renovate and expand the University Center. This is an important space for student engagement and community-building, and we look forward to continuing to partner with our students as this project develops. Coming later this summer and fall, new enhancements in UTA’s mobile app will also provide seamless access to MyMav, Canvas, and academic support services.
To our students graduating, I want to congratulate you on the closing of this chapter and your next steps, whether you are continuing on in academia or stepping into the workforce. I am confident that you have gained invaluable experience while at UTA, and I am excited to see what you accomplish in the years ahead. I look forward to celebrating with you at our MavGrad Celebration on May 9, 2024, in Brazos Park.
You will become a #ForeverMaverick in just a few short days and, as alumni, will play a pivotal role in the long-term success of UTA 2030. I encourage you to visit alumni.uta.edu to stay connected and engaged with us in the future.
To our students returning to UTA, I hope you have a productive summer, that you seek out new opportunities, spend time with friends and family, and return to campus excited to continue on your educational journey.
Have a great summer!
