n May 2024, the Forty Acres Scholars Program reached a wonderful milestone—our 10th class of graduating Scholars celebrated their commencement. As this remarkable program moves into its next chapter, we now have 160 Scholar alumni working everywhere from Texas to Tawain and making the change they want to see. From physicians and attorneys to nonprofit founders, teachers, start-up CEOs, climate researchers, investigative journalists, and more, these bright young leaders are making their mark and living out the core values of The University of Texas.

We are thrilled to welcome our new cohort, the Class of 2028, to campus to continue this legacy. They all demonstrate intellectual curiosity and have a track record of outstanding academic success. In this milestone year, reflecting on the program’s founding and its evolution into a powerhouse recruiting tool for the University.

The three tenets of the program are community, connection, and discovery. Since the beginning, it has been a transformational adventure that helps individuals reach their full potential, and, alongside academic achievement, focus on personal development, relationship building, and gaining perspective.

In the only program of its kind administered by an alumni association, the Forty Acres Scholars Program continues to foster a unique connection between Scholars and alumni. From the moment they step onto campus, they join an extraordinary network helps them reach their full potential.

We have so much to celebrate this year. Thank you for being a part of this success and for helping these Longhorns change the world.

About the Forty Acres Scholars Program 

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READ ABOUT EACH COHORT

2015       2016      2017      2018      2019

2020      2021      2022      2023      2024

FASP Infograph
FASP Infograph

hroughout their three and a half years on campus, the 16 Scholars in the Class of 2025 have founded student organizations; held key leadership positions on campus and in the community; and researched, interned, and studied abroad around the world—all while supporting one another and working toward a combined total of 25 undergraduate degrees. 

Brydn Abraham

Brydn Abraham

Catherine G. and Sam L. Susser Forty Acres Scholarship

"The sense of community the Forty Acres Scholarship Program provides is indescribable. Being part of the program means you'll have someone in your corner on every corner of campus—from the Music building to the McCombs School of Business. Being part of the program means you'll have a alumnus or connection who is an expert in whatever you want to do. Being part of the program gives you the capability to go wherever you want to go. Being part of this program has been one of the greatest things that's ever happened to me. I can't thank the staff, my peers, and this community enough."

Frances Cates

Frances Cates

Eugene McDermott Forty Acres Scholarship

"Forty Acres has given me the freedom to think big and pursue opportunities with a supportive community and financial security behind me. This summer, I was able to complete a research project in the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department at the University of Cambridge after connecting with a mentor there. Without the support of Forty Acres, I never could have followed through with this opportunity. Forty Acres has instilled in me the confidence to create my own path and embrace new challenges."

Jeremiah Do

Jeremiah Do

Stamps Forty Acres Scholarship, supported by Lana Jones O'Hara and Will O'Hara

"The Forty Acres Scholars Program has fundamentally shaped my journey at The University of Texas in ways I could never have imagined. Initially, I was apprehensive about being around high-achieving people and feared experiencing imposter syndrome, but the community I found within this program quickly made me feel at home. Through the generous support of the program, I've had the opportunity to study under distinguished professors, engage in enriching research, and study abroad while immersing myself in the cultures of Denmark, the Netherlands, and the Israeli-Palestinian territories. The program has also allowed me to network with industry trailblazers and partake in founding multiple businesses and startups, including a professional photography business and a startup aimed at significantly reducing medical response times. These experiences have further enriched my professional development and prepared me for a successful career. The mentorship and friendships I've gained here are invaluable, and the experiences have been truly transformative."

Faith Fulbright

Faith Fulbright

Fred A. Gottesman Forty Acres Scholarship

"This program is truly life changing. My life—the path I’m on both professionally and personally—has been forever altered in the best way possible. Within the Forty Acres Scholars Program, I have found lifelong friends and role models whom I continue to look up to. I’ve grown into a person who is so much more confident, well-rounded, and better equipped for the wide world in front of me. Every time I think of my cohort and the cohorts before and after us, I am filled with so much pride and gratitude. It is the work of our amazing FASP donors and our staff in the Texas Exes office that makes this program possible. I cannot imagine a better way to have spent my college years than surrounded by this incredible community of thought leaders, creatives, and changemakers that I call my friends."

Leila Garza

Leila Garza

AIM Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship

"The experience I've had at UT would not have been possible without the Forty Acres Scholars Program. The endless opportunities and support I have received throughout these past four years have been nothing short of amazing. As a first-generation student, the dream of attending a prestigious University like UT seemed out of reach until FASP made it a reality. I am deeply grateful for the mentorship, resources, and sense of community that FASP has offered. This program has profoundly influenced me, shaping my ambitions and aspirations. It has laid a strong foundation for what I plan to give back to the world. I am forever indebted to FASP and its generous support for believing in me and empowering me to pursue my dreams. Hook ’em!"

Nina Hamuy

Nina Hamuy

Karen and Charles Matthews, Jr. Forty Acres Scholarship

"Being a Forty Acres Scholar has opened more doors for me than I ever could have imagined. The relationships I’ve built through the program feel like the comfort of family, which is especially cherished as an out-of-state student. Older scholars have mentored me professionally and socially throughout my college journey, and I’m privileged to give my experience back into the program. FASP has provided me the financial freedom to experience life to the fullest—living in Spain and New Zealand, joining as many student organizations as I please, achieving academic excellence, and making the most of my time on the Forty Acres. I’m forever grateful for the opportunities Texas Exes and my donors have provided me!"

Holly Hull

Holly Gayle Hull

Friends of Darrell K Royal Forty Acres Scholarship

"They say the Forty Acres Scholarship Program is more than just a scholarship, and I could not agree more. I can’t recall a different scholarship that presents you lifelong friends, the opportunity to study abroad, a mentorship program like no other, and the family bonds we are all looking for at this massive University. To say I am blessed to be a part of this program is an extreme understatement. I am often reminded how grateful I am for this opportunity at Scholar dinners when I am surrounded by dozens of driven, like-minded peers. I know that what happens here at UT is indeed going to change the world because of the friends I have in the Forty Acres Scholarship Program."

Eleanor Hutcheson

Eleanor Hutcheson

Stamps Forty Acres Scholarship, supported by Leslie and John David Moritz

"I am deeply appreciative of the incredible opportunities I have gained through the Forty Acres Scholars Program. Participating in this program afforded me a tight-knit circle of friends that continues to grow with each new cohort every year. Having the support of this community and the program staff has truly enriched my time at UT. I have met remarkable alumni, allowing me to learn more about UT and its traditions and to expand my network. Being a Scholar also gave me access to extraordinary experiences, including the ability to study abroad in Italy. It was an honor to learn with and from fellow classmates in a completely new environment. I will be forever grateful to the Moritz family and The Stamps Foundation for their generosity and am so fortunate to have this program helping ensure my success not just in college but beyond."

Esther Jin

Esther Jin

Stamps Forty Acres Scholarship, supported by the Cockrell School of Engineering

"Thinking about the Forty Acres Scholars Program and the magnitude of its impact on my life, I am filled with overwhelming gratitude. The ability to support myself financially and graduate debt-free is a dream come true, and has launched me into a position where I can attain financial security for both myself and my family. Being a Forty Acres Scholar has transformed the trajectory of my academic and professional career in a way that I never could have imagined. Within the incredible Scholar community, I have met Scholars that have been inspirational mentors, as well as friends that will last a lifetime. I've been able to lose myself in the endless opportunities The University of Texas has to offer its engineering students, growing as an engineer while having the endless support of the program. These past three years have been a dream come true. The love I have for this University is insurmountable, and it all started with the Forty Acres Scholars Program."

Leah Kegerreis

Leah Kegerreis

Stamps Forty Acres Scholarship, supported by Nancy and Mark Reichek

"Entering college as a Forty Acres Scholar quite literally shaped my life in ways I could never have expected. From stepping onto UT’s campus for the first time with built-in friends to traveling with world with them, the people I’ve met in this program have inspired me to be my best, made me laugh my hardest, and taught me what it means to chase after my goals. I want to thank the staff for introducing me to my heroes, providing countless mentoring and networking opportunities, and being a shoulder to lean on. I would also like to thank the Reicheks for their immense generosity in allowing me not only to grow in my field of study, but also to travel the globe! I am beyond blessed to have spent these four years surrounded by the best Longhorns in the world, and I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything."

Niels Levy Thiebault

Niels Levy-Thiebaut

Stamps Forty Acres Scholarship, supported by Carolyn Holmes

"I am beyond thankful to my Forty Acres Scholars Program donors, Judy Hutchison, and the Stamps Foundation for their generous support that made my experience possible. I am extremely fortunate to have been inspired and to have learned from such an accomplished, passionate group of Scholars I am proud to call my friends. This program has allowed me to fully enjoy my experience at The University of Texas and educational travels to Spain and Japan, debt-free and supported in every way by the wonderful staff at the Texas Exes. I have grown academically, personally, and professionally thanks to the innumerable opportunities and unique programming FASP offers. As I look to my future in medical school, I hold in my heart my Forty Acres Scholars Program donors, UT, and the many people in the program who have helped me in my journey. Hook ’em!"

Joseph Newcomer

Joseph Newcomer

Texas Exes Dallas Chapter Forty Acres Scholarship

"The Forty Acres Scholars Program has changed my college experience in just about every way I can imagine. From the first day I set foot on campus, I felt welcomed and at home among my fellow Scholars. My best friends have come from this program, and I will continue to be involved in the lives of the people I have met through the program for the rest of my life. But more than just the people, the program has also given me some of the most unique, challenging, and enriching opportunities one can have throughout college. From studying abroad in Sweden to faculty dinners with esteemed professors, the Forty Acres Scholars Program has provided me with so many opportunities that would be much more difficult to experience otherwise. I am extremely grateful to the Dallas Texas Exes for their generosity, and I'm so thankful for these past four years!"

Chardelene Reyes

Chardelene Reyes

Mike A. Myers Forty Acres Scholarship

"The Forty Acres Scholars Program is the heart of my experience here at UT. Through FASP, I have met 16 of the kindest, most extraordinary individuals I have the privilege to call my friends. This program has granted me the opportunity to grow from the enriching experience of studying abroad and receive unwavering support from inspiring alumni. Words cannot express my gratitude for how FASP has not only provided me the financial support for my education, but also empowered me to maximize the resources UT has to offer. I will forever be grateful to the Forty Acres Scholars program for shaping my four years in such a profound way. Hook ’em!"

Diego Robbins

Diego Robbins

Ray and Denise Nixon Forty Acres Scholarship

"The Forty Acres Scholars Program is unique because it offers its recipients a community worth so much more than the financial gifts it endows. While the program's financial benefits have undoubtedly presented me with opportunities that I otherwise would not have had, all of the resources that the program commits to building community for its scholars gave me the confidence to make the most of the opportunities in front of me. Eager FASP alumni helped me navigate internship recruiting, fellow scholars in my cohort who were studying abroad at the same time as me made moving to another continent feel a lot less lonely, and the constant support offered by Texas Exes staff provided an ever-present outlet for all of my stresses and worries, no matter how insignificant I thought they were. A little over four years ago, I went into the FASP Finalist Weekend impressed by the prestige of the scholarship program, but what sold me on coming to the University of Texas was the idea of being a part of a community as strong and supporting as the FASP community."

Mia Li Rodriguez

Mia Li Rodriguez

Stan L. McLelland Forty Acres Scholarship Marilyn Marshall White Enrichment Award

"The Forty Acres Scholars Program has absolutely shaped my college experience as one of opportunity, community, and adventure. At UT, I have enjoyed challenging classes and taken on meaningful leadership roles that have improved my character. Through this, Forty Acres has provided mentorship and constant support. Moreover, I am continually inspired by my fellow Scholars who achieve their own impressive goals. I am grateful for this community that has cheered me on throughout college. Lastly, through the generosity of the Marilyn Marshall White Enrichment Award, I had the opportunity to spend two summers in Singapore and Rome, Italy. Words cannot express how much I enjoyed my time abroad, where I saw incredible sites, learned about fascinating political histories, and ate delicious food!"

Nick Van Lente

Nick Van Lente

Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long Forty Acres Scholarship

"When I was applying to the Forty Acres Scholars Program, I had no idea the impact this community would have on my personal and academic life. My best friends are Forty Acres Scholars. My favorite experiences and memories are from events organized by the scholarship. My biggest impact on campus is through the scholarship. In so many ways, the Forty Acres Scholars Program has changed my life, and I will be forever thankful to all the people and institutions that made this experience possible. On my list of most successful risks taken, choosing FASP is at the top."

Angeline Aloysius

Georgetown, TX

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Leo Andrade

Houston, TX

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Deisiree De Jesus

Edinburg, TX

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Molly Hunter

Chapel Hill, NC

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Ryan Karkowsky

Houston, TX

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Bradley Klinck

Alexandria, VA

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Rudy Lea III

Garland, TX

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Chelsie Lopez

Houston, TX

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Sophia Maynard

Houston, TX

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Andrew McAlinden

Austin, TX

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Abigail Mimbela

El Paso, TX

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Yahir Olivares

Houston, TX

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Lucienne Moran

Spring, TX

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Akshita Rawat

Helotes, TX

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Corey'L Sams

Houston, TX

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Isabella Soares

Pearland, TX

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Ashleigh Trujillo

San Antonio, TX

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Wesland Ung

Allen, TX

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Sahan Yerram

Coppell, TX

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Jasmine Benau

Houston, TX

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Pamela Chow

Spring, TX

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Layla Crear

Houston, TX

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Matthew Creixell

Dallas, TX

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Ella Folh

Sugar Land, TX

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Benjamin Howell

Mableton, GA

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Olivia Jacoby

Southlake, TX

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Karla Jimenez

Brownsville, TX

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Kyler Larsen

College Station, TX

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Jared Levy

New York, NY

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Tina Luo

Flower Mound, TX

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Marco Ma

Sugar Land, TX

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Kennon McNew

Robinson, TX

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Grace Ogden

San Antonio, TX

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Akash Pradeep 

Plano, TX

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Georgia Rocap

Lubbock, TX

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Akshaya Sakala

Camas, WA

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Abigail Tomaski 

Houston, TX

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Jaylen Waithe

Virginia Beach, VA

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Andrés Alejandro Yengle-Terr

Houston, TX

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oday, we are thrilled to introduce you to our 18 new and exceptional Forty Acres Scholars. 

Among the incoming class are founders of community service programs, school clubs, and businesses. Also in the mix are four high school valedictorians and six AP Scholars with Distinction. Many more are decorated varsity athletes, team captains, club presidents, musicians, and entrepreneurs.  

Ashley Abrahams

Prosper, TX

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Anjum Alam

Houston, TX

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Anna Kate Albritton

Dallas, TX

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Myshae Allen

Myshae Allen

San Angelo, TX

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Awas Amin

Awas Amin

Southlake, TX

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Ali Beanblossom

Alison Beanblossom

Winnetka, IL

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Emma Corbell

Emma Corbell

Frisco, TX

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Catherin Guerra

Rio Grande City, TX

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Lindsey Karkowsky

Houston, TX

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Lucy Katz

Houston, TX

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Walton Kunu

Missouri City, TX

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Macy McAfee

Houston, TX

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Aubrey Menz

Boerne, TX

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Michael O'Connor

Arlington Heights, IL

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Eeshwar Parasuramuni

Frisco, TX

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Luke Sotelo

San Antonio, TX

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Chiamaka Uwalaka

Houston, TX

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Landon von Minden

La Grange, TX

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FASP Infograph

 


 

The Forty Acres Scholars Program is built on: 

 

Community

Scholar cohorts are made up of gifted and passionate students with diverse backgrounds, interests, and majors. Over the years, this group forms a tight bond outside of the classroom through retreats, dinners, and events. The end result is leaving the Forty Acres with a shared experience that can never be recreated.

 

Connection

Forty Acres Scholars develop a unique connection with their alma mater and its leaders. They have opportunities to meet, discuss, and forge connections with deans and leading faculty, donors, University staff, and influential alumni.

 

Discovery

A generous enrichment stipend means Scholars have the freedom to pursue the interests and opportunities outside of the classroom that will positively impact their personal and professional growth. From studying abroad and philanthropic service, to cutting-edge research and participating in real-world experiences in their field of study, we believe their potential is unlocked through experiences both in and out of the classroom.

Donors

Thank you to our generous and dedicated donors, without whom this world-changing program would not be possible. 

View list of Donors 
(Download PDF) 

Advisors

Thank you to our 2023–24 Scholarship Advisory Committee members: Dr. David Jones, Diane Begala, Ben Howell, Ann Seals, Anne Smith

Volunteers

And thank you to all our volunteers who participated in semifinalist and finalist weekend interviews. Your dedication and service to the Forty Acres Scholars Program are what set our program apart from all others.