Introducing the 2013 Forty Acres Scholars Program Finalists

The University of Texas' most prestigious scholarship is moving closer to selecting its third class. From the more than 28,000 students who applied to the University, 41 finalists have been selected for the Forty Acres Scholars Program. They're an elite bunch. They hail from six states and 16 Texas counties and have an average SAT score of 1430. This year's finalists aim to study in almost all of UT's colleges and schools, from fine arts to business, education, and engineering. They'll be in Austin from April 4-6 for Finalists' Weekend, where they'll tour campus, visit with their school or college, meet current scholars and alumni, and even see the city via the amphibious Austin Duck Tour, among other activities. The weekend will conclude with interviews that will help select the final group of scholarship recipients. Forty Acres Scholars Program associate director Kristy Kimball says she's eagerly awaiting Finalists' Weekend. "We've been reviewing applications since January and earlier, so it will be great to finally meet the students," Kimball says. "We feel like we already know them, and we can't wait to get to know them better." Below, meet the 2013 Forty Acres Scholars Program finalists. Ashley Alcantara Lamar High School Houston, TX Claire Creighton Carroll Senior High School Southlake, TX Trey Curran Jesuit College Preparatory School Plano, TX Sam Dalton Highland Park High School Dallas, TX Genaro DeLeon HM King High School Kingsville, TX Rachel Dick Tanque Verde High School Tucson, AZ Milan Doshi Elkins High School Missouri City, TX Gabriela Estrada Business Careers High School San Antonio, TX Sarah Fischer Leonardtown High School Mechanicsville, MD Tyler Freed Alamo Heights Senior High School San Antonio, TX Connor Frew McKinney Boyd High School McKinney, TX Ben Giddens Alamo Heights Senior High School San Antonio, TX Jonathan Go Wichita Collegiate School Andover, KS Julio Gonzalez Pharr-San Juan-Alamo High School McAllen, TX Mark Gorthey Westlake High School Austin, TX Madison Gove Dickinson High School Dickinson, TX Nicole Grunwald Pantego Christian Academy Mansfield, TX Amanda Hildebrand Tom Clark High School San Antonio, TX Jacklyn Jacobe Kinkaid School Houston, TX Archana Jeeji Westwood High School Austin, TX Yoon Jeong Plano West Senior High School Farmers Branch, TX Jennifer Knesbach Bellaire Senior High School Houston, TX Gene Lewis Robert E. Lee High School Tyler, TX Molly Marek Boerne High School Boerne, TX Keyur Mehta Westlake High School Austin, TX Christine Nott Harlingen High School South Harlingen, TX Alejandra Ortega Barbara Jordan High School for Careers Houston, TX Isabel Pask Lake Highlands High School Dallas, TX McKay Proctor Montgomery Bell Academy Nashville, TN Caroline Read Highland Park High School Dallas, TX Marlene Renz Alamo Heights Senior High School San Antonio, TX Ron Richard Ridge Point High School Missouri City, TX Bronwyn Scott Kingwood High School Kingwood, TX Kris Seavers Ronald Reagan High School San Antonio, TX Cooper Simon Central High School Forth Worth, TX Kate Stotesbery Regents School of Austin Austin, TX Kathryn Stouffer Highland Park High School Dallas, TX Scott Urbis Los Fresnos Senior High School Brownsville, TX Sarah Vogts Interlochen Arts Academy Dakota Dunes, SD Chris Wager Strake Jesuit College Preparatory School Houston, TX Marsha Zhang St. John's School Houston, TX

Introducing the 2013 Forty Acres Scholars Program Finalists

The University of Texas' most prestigious scholarship is moving closer to selecting its third class. From the more than 28,000 students who applied to the University, 41 finalists have been selected for the Forty Acres Scholars Program. They're an elite bunch. They hail from six states and 16 Texas counties and have an average SAT score of 1430. This year's finalists aim to study in almost all of UT's colleges and schools, from fine arts to business, education, and engineering. They'll be in Austin from April 4-6 for Finalists' Weekend, where they'll tour campus, visit with their school or college, meet current scholars and alumni, and even see the city via the amphibious Austin Duck Tour, among other activities. The weekend will conclude with interviews that will help select the final group of scholarship recipients. Forty Acres Scholars Program associate director Kristy Kimball says she's eagerly awaiting Finalists' Weekend. "We've been reviewing applications since January and earlier, so it will be great to finally meet the students," Kimball says. "We feel like we already know them, and we can't wait to get to know them better." Below, meet the 2013 Forty Acres Scholars Program finalists. Ashley Alcantara Lamar High School Houston, TX Claire Creighton Carroll Senior High School Southlake, TX Trey Curran Jesuit College Preparatory School Plano, TX Sam Dalton Highland Park High School Dallas, TX Genaro DeLeon HM King High School Kingsville, TX Rachel Dick Tanque Verde High School Tucson, AZ Milan Doshi Elkins High School Missouri City, TX Gabriela Estrada Business Careers High School San Antonio, TX Sarah Fischer Leonardtown High School Mechanicsville, MD Tyler Freed Alamo Heights Senior High School San Antonio, TX Connor Frew McKinney Boyd High School McKinney, TX Ben Giddens Alamo Heights Senior High School San Antonio, TX Jonathan Go Wichita Collegiate School Andover, KS Julio Gonzalez Pharr-San Juan-Alamo High School McAllen, TX Mark Gorthey Westlake High School Austin, TX Madison Gove Dickinson High School Dickinson, TX Nicole Grunwald Pantego Christian Academy Mansfield, TX Amanda Hildebrand Tom Clark High School San Antonio, TX Jacklyn Jacobe Kinkaid School Houston, TX Archana Jeeji Westwood High School Austin, TX Yoon Jeong Plano West Senior High School Farmers Branch, TX Jennifer Knesbach Bellaire Senior High School Houston, TX Gene Lewis Robert E. Lee High School Tyler, TX Molly Marek Boerne High School Boerne, TX Keyur Mehta Westlake High School Austin, TX Christine Nott Harlingen High School South Harlingen, TX Alejandra Ortega Barbara Jordan High School for Careers Houston, TX Isabel Pask Lake Highlands High School Dallas, TX McKay Proctor Montgomery Bell Academy Nashville, TN Caroline Read Highland Park High School Dallas, TX Marlene Renz Alamo Heights Senior High School San Antonio, TX Ron Richard Ridge Point High School Missouri City, TX Bronwyn Scott Kingwood High School Kingwood, TX Kris Seavers Ronald Reagan High School San Antonio, TX Cooper Simon Central High School Forth Worth, TX Kate Stotesbery Regents School of Austin Austin, TX Kathryn Stouffer Highland Park High School Dallas, TX Scott Urbis Los Fresnos Senior High School Brownsville, TX Sarah Vogts Interlochen Arts Academy Dakota Dunes, SD Chris Wager Strake Jesuit College Preparatory School Houston, TX Marsha Zhang St. John's School Houston, TX

Introducing the 2013 Forty Acres Scholars Program Finalists

The University of Texas' most prestigious scholarship is moving closer to selecting its third class. From the more than 28,000 students who applied to the University, 41 finalists have been selected for the Forty Acres Scholars Program. They're an elite bunch. They hail from six states and 16 Texas counties and have an average SAT score of 1430. This year's finalists aim to study in almost all of UT's colleges and schools, from fine arts to business, education, and engineering. They'll be in Austin from April 4-6 for Finalists' Weekend, where they'll tour campus, visit with their school or college, meet current scholars and alumni, and even see the city via the amphibious Austin Duck Tour, among other activities. The weekend will conclude with interviews that will help select the final group of scholarship recipients. Forty Acres Scholars Program associate director Kristy Kimball says she's eagerly awaiting Finalists' Weekend. "We've been reviewing applications since January and earlier, so it will be great to finally meet the students," Kimball says. "We feel like we already know them, and we can't wait to get to know them better." Below, meet the 2013 Forty Acres Scholars Program finalists. Ashley Alcantara Lamar High School Houston, TX Claire Creighton Carroll Senior High School Southlake, TX Trey Curran Jesuit College Preparatory School Plano, TX Sam Dalton Highland Park High School Dallas, TX Genaro DeLeon HM King High School Kingsville, TX Rachel Dick Tanque Verde High School Tucson, AZ Milan Doshi Elkins High School Missouri City, TX Gabriela Estrada Business Careers High School San Antonio, TX Sarah Fischer Leonardtown High School Mechanicsville, MD Tyler Freed Alamo Heights Senior High School San Antonio, TX Connor Frew McKinney Boyd High School McKinney, TX Ben Giddens Alamo Heights Senior High School San Antonio, TX Jonathan Go Wichita Collegiate School Andover, KS Julio Gonzalez Pharr-San Juan-Alamo High School McAllen, TX Mark Gorthey Westlake High School Austin, TX Madison Gove Dickinson High School Dickinson, TX Nicole Grunwald Pantego Christian Academy Mansfield, TX Amanda Hildebrand Tom Clark High School San Antonio, TX Jacklyn Jacobe Kinkaid School Houston, TX Archana Jeeji Westwood High School Austin, TX Yoon Jeong Plano West Senior High School Farmers Branch, TX Jennifer Knesbach Bellaire Senior High School Houston, TX Gene Lewis Robert E. Lee High School Tyler, TX Molly Marek Boerne High School Boerne, TX Keyur Mehta Westlake High School Austin, TX Christine Nott Harlingen High School South Harlingen, TX Alejandra Ortega Barbara Jordan High School for Careers Houston, TX Isabel Pask Lake Highlands High School Dallas, TX McKay Proctor Montgomery Bell Academy Nashville, TN Caroline Read Highland Park High School Dallas, TX Marlene Renz Alamo Heights Senior High School San Antonio, TX Ron Richard Ridge Point High School Missouri City, TX Bronwyn Scott Kingwood High School Kingwood, TX Kris Seavers Ronald Reagan High School San Antonio, TX Cooper Simon Central High School Forth Worth, TX Kate Stotesbery Regents School of Austin Austin, TX Kathryn Stouffer Highland Park High School Dallas, TX Scott Urbis Los Fresnos Senior High School Brownsville, TX Sarah Vogts Interlochen Arts Academy Dakota Dunes, SD Chris Wager Strake Jesuit College Preparatory School Houston, TX Marsha Zhang St. John's School Houston, TX

Forty Acres Scholar Builds Clinic, Community in Honduras

As a first-year architecture and Plan II Honors major, Rachel Larson is already pursuing her goal to create sustainable design for the third world. Her first step toward this goal was joining Global Brigades, which calls itself the world's largest student-led global health and sustainable development organization. Global Brigades puts young volunteers to work in skill-based programs ranging from dentistry to business and human rights. Naturally, Larson chose to work with the nonprofit's architecture branch. Larson became a "brigadier" in the fall and traveled over winter break to Honduras to help build a health clinic in El Canton. The health clinic is based on an award-winning design created by UT brigadiers a few years ago. Once completed, the clinic will provide general health care to a region severely lacking it. When Larson arrived in Honduras, other teams had already begun building the health clinic. The foundation was laid, and the walls were rising. Larson and her team set to work building a retaining wall behind the building to keep erosion back and stabilize the plot of land where the clinic sits. "I am a firm believer that architecture can change lives," Larson says.  "If you design a building the right way, it can drastically change the way people in a community live." For the people of El Canton, the new clinic should open doors for better health care—and for educating community members. "The [Global Architecture Brigade] never just cuts a check and sends it to people who need money," Larson says. "Instead, they try and build structures and teach sustainability that will improve the lives of the people." The experience also gave Larson a vital real-world lesson in architecture. In the studio, she and other architecture students work with chipboard—a test material that is much easier to work with than field materials. "Getting a chance to build something where you have to worry about bricks lining up really shows you how important it is to have a good idea of how structures work," Larson says. Blakeney Kurad, director of the Forty Acres Scholars Program and development, says that Larson's experience exemplifies why Forty Acres Scholars are required not only to do community service, but also to enrich their careers and go abroad. Larson just managed to do all three at once, Kurad says. "Each scholar has a stipend for a global experience, professional development, and community service," Kurad explains. "Rachel's trip was a perfect combination of all three components." The group of people most excited about her trip, Larson says, were her fellow Forty Acres Scholars. "Pretty much everyone was very excited about me going on this trip," she says. "Everyone wanted to hear every detail."

Forty Acres Scholar Builds Clinic, Community in Honduras

As a first-year architecture and Plan II Honors major, Rachel Larson is already pursuing her goal to create sustainable design for the third world. Her first step toward this goal was joining Global Brigades, which calls itself the world's largest student-led global health and sustainable development organization. Global Brigades puts young volunteers to work in skill-based programs ranging from dentistry to business and human rights. Naturally, Larson chose to work with the nonprofit's architecture branch. Larson became a "brigadier" in the fall and traveled over winter break to Honduras to help build a health clinic in El Canton. The health clinic is based on an award-winning design created by UT brigadiers a few years ago. Once completed, the clinic will provide general health care to a region severely lacking it. When Larson arrived in Honduras, other teams had already begun building the health clinic. The foundation was laid, and the walls were rising. Larson and her team set to work building a retaining wall behind the building to keep erosion back and stabilize the plot of land where the clinic sits. "I am a firm believer that architecture can change lives," Larson says.  "If you design a building the right way, it can drastically change the way people in a community live." For the people of El Canton, the new clinic should open doors for better health care—and for educating community members. "The [Global Architecture Brigade] never just cuts a check and sends it to people who need money," Larson says. "Instead, they try and build structures and teach sustainability that will improve the lives of the people." The experience also gave Larson a vital real-world lesson in architecture. In the studio, she and other architecture students work with chipboard—a test material that is much easier to work with than field materials. "Getting a chance to build something where you have to worry about bricks lining up really shows you how important it is to have a good idea of how structures work," Larson says. Blakeney Kurad, director of the Forty Acres Scholars Program and development, says that Larson's experience exemplifies why Forty Acres Scholars are required not only to do community service, but also to enrich their careers and go abroad. Larson just managed to do all three at once, Kurad says. "Each scholar has a stipend for a global experience, professional development, and community service," Kurad explains. "Rachel's trip was a perfect combination of all three components." The group of people most excited about her trip, Larson says, were her fellow Forty Acres Scholars. "Pretty much everyone was very excited about me going on this trip," she says. "Everyone wanted to hear every detail."

Forty Acres Scholar Builds Clinic, Community in Honduras

As a first-year architecture and Plan II Honors major, Rachel Larson is already pursuing her goal to create sustainable design for the third world. Her first step toward this goal was joining Global Brigades, which calls itself the world's largest student-led global health and sustainable development organization. Global Brigades puts young volunteers to work in skill-based programs ranging from dentistry to business and human rights. Naturally, Larson chose to work with the nonprofit's architecture branch. Larson became a "brigadier" in the fall and traveled over winter break to Honduras to help build a health clinic in El Canton. The health clinic is based on an award-winning design created by UT brigadiers a few years ago. Once completed, the clinic will provide general health care to a region severely lacking it. When Larson arrived in Honduras, other teams had already begun building the health clinic. The foundation was laid, and the walls were rising. Larson and her team set to work building a retaining wall behind the building to keep erosion back and stabilize the plot of land where the clinic sits. "I am a firm believer that architecture can change lives," Larson says.  "If you design a building the right way, it can drastically change the way people in a community live." For the people of El Canton, the new clinic should open doors for better health care—and for educating community members. "The [Global Architecture Brigade] never just cuts a check and sends it to people who need money," Larson says. "Instead, they try and build structures and teach sustainability that will improve the lives of the people." The experience also gave Larson a vital real-world lesson in architecture. In the studio, she and other architecture students work with chipboard—a test material that is much easier to work with than field materials. "Getting a chance to build something where you have to worry about bricks lining up really shows you how important it is to have a good idea of how structures work," Larson says. Blakeney Kurad, director of the Forty Acres Scholars Program and development, says that Larson's experience exemplifies why Forty Acres Scholars are required not only to do community service, but also to enrich their careers and go abroad. Larson just managed to do all three at once, Kurad says. "Each scholar has a stipend for a global experience, professional development, and community service," Kurad explains. "Rachel's trip was a perfect combination of all three components." The group of people most excited about her trip, Larson says, were her fellow Forty Acres Scholars. "Pretty much everyone was very excited about me going on this trip," she says. "Everyone wanted to hear every detail."

Forty Acres Scholars Attend Leadership Conference

UT’s sophomore Forty Acres Scholars attended the 2013 Hatton W. Sumners Undergraduate Leadership Conference hosted by the Center for Ethical Leadership and organized by LBJ School of Public Affairs professor Howard Prince. The conference focused on inspiring students to seek and accept leadership responsibilities. Forty Acres Scholar Ashley Chang says the conference completely exceeded her expectations. “The speeches and the elective sessions about leadership were extremely beneficial and enlightening,” Chang says. “I really enjoyed every single presentation and event that was set up for us.” Chang says her favorite part was listening to the speakers talk about their own life experiences. “There were just certain presentations that I know we’ll never forget because of how inspiring they were,” she says. “I loved hearing about everything they’ve done, the journeys they’ve gone through, and how they’ve handled obstacles to make the best of the situations they were given.” Although the conference focused on the educational components of developing leaders, there was still enough time for some fun and games. Chang says the social events, dinners, and karaoke nights were aspects of the conference that she thoroughly enjoyed. These events allowed her to form strong friendships through informal interaction with other students. “It was great to be with students from different schools all over the U.S.,” Chang says. “We were all inspired to pursue our dreams and become better leaders in our daily lives.”

Forty Acres Scholars Attend Leadership Conference

UT’s sophomore Forty Acres Scholars attended the 2013 Hatton W. Sumners Undergraduate Leadership Conference hosted by the Center for Ethical Leadership and organized by LBJ School of Public Affairs professor Howard Prince. The conference focused on inspiring students to seek and accept leadership responsibilities. Forty Acres Scholar Ashley Chang says the conference completely exceeded her expectations. “The speeches and the elective sessions about leadership were extremely beneficial and enlightening,” Chang says. “I really enjoyed every single presentation and event that was set up for us.” Chang says her favorite part was listening to the speakers talk about their own life experiences. “There were just certain presentations that I know we’ll never forget because of how inspiring they were,” she says. “I loved hearing about everything they’ve done, the journeys they’ve gone through, and how they’ve handled obstacles to make the best of the situations they were given.” Although the conference focused on the educational components of developing leaders, there was still enough time for some fun and games. Chang says the social events, dinners, and karaoke nights were aspects of the conference that she thoroughly enjoyed. These events allowed her to form strong friendships through informal interaction with other students. “It was great to be with students from different schools all over the U.S.,” Chang says. “We were all inspired to pursue our dreams and become better leaders in our daily lives.”

Forty Acres Scholars Attend Leadership Conference

UT’s sophomore Forty Acres Scholars attended the 2013 Hatton W. Sumners Undergraduate Leadership Conference hosted by the Center for Ethical Leadership and organized by LBJ School of Public Affairs professor Howard Prince. The conference focused on inspiring students to seek and accept leadership responsibilities. Forty Acres Scholar Ashley Chang says the conference completely exceeded her expectations. “The speeches and the elective sessions about leadership were extremely beneficial and enlightening,” Chang says. “I really enjoyed every single presentation and event that was set up for us.” Chang says her favorite part was listening to the speakers talk about their own life experiences. “There were just certain presentations that I know we’ll never forget because of how inspiring they were,” she says. “I loved hearing about everything they’ve done, the journeys they’ve gone through, and how they’ve handled obstacles to make the best of the situations they were given.” Although the conference focused on the educational components of developing leaders, there was still enough time for some fun and games. Chang says the social events, dinners, and karaoke nights were aspects of the conference that she thoroughly enjoyed. These events allowed her to form strong friendships through informal interaction with other students. “It was great to be with students from different schools all over the U.S.,” Chang says. “We were all inspired to pursue our dreams and become better leaders in our daily lives.”

Announcing the Lenora and Walter F. Brown Forty Acres Scholarship

San Antonio is a big city with an even bigger heart, as evidenced by the new Lenora and Walter F. Brown Forty Acres Scholarship. The scholarship—named in honor of Lenora Brown, BBA ’56, and Walter F. Brown, BBA ’57, Life Members—will give the best San Antonio-area students a premier education at UT-Austin. In addition to paying for all tuition, fees, and books, the Forty Acres Scholars Program provides a living stipend, study abroad and internship support, mentoring, and other resources. About 40 alumni and friends of the University celebrated the news Thursday night in a ceremony at the home of Catherine and Walter Brown, JD ’76. Texas Rep. Dan Branch and Texas Exes executive director and CEO Leslie Cedar were among the attendees. The Browns' gift was instrumental in making the scholarship possible, but it was also part of a larger community effort, says Blakeney Kurad, director of the Forty Acres Scholars Program and development. "We’re so appreciative of our alumni and the Browns' efforts to support not only the Forty Acres Scholars Program, but also the San Antonio community," Kurad says. Bruce Hill, BBA ’77; Sally Clayton, MPA ’84; Craig Clayton, BBA ’84; Jim Goudge, BBA ’76; and Suzanne Goudge, BBA ’76, all Life Members, were among the many San Antonio Longhorns who made the evening possible. From left: Warren and Melissa Branch, Walter and Catherine Brown, and Dan and Stacey Branch. Photo by Aaron Leondar.

Announcing the Lenora and Walter F. Brown Forty Acres Scholarship

San Antonio is a big city with an even bigger heart, as evidenced by the new Lenora and Walter F. Brown Forty Acres Scholarship. The scholarship—named in honor of Lenora Brown, BBA ’56, and Walter F. Brown, BBA ’57, Life Members—will give the best San Antonio-area students a premier education at UT-Austin. In addition to paying for all tuition, fees, and books, the Forty Acres Scholars Program provides a living stipend, study abroad and internship support, mentoring, and other resources. About 40 alumni and friends of the University celebrated the news Thursday night in a ceremony at the home of Catherine and Walter Brown, JD ’76. Texas Rep. Dan Branch and Texas Exes executive director and CEO Leslie Cedar were among the attendees. The Browns' gift was instrumental in making the scholarship possible, but it was also part of a larger community effort, says Blakeney Kurad, director of the Forty Acres Scholars Program and development. "We’re so appreciative of our alumni and the Browns' efforts to support not only the Forty Acres Scholars Program, but also the San Antonio community," Kurad says. Bruce Hill, BBA ’77; Sally Clayton, MPA ’84; Craig Clayton, BBA ’84; Jim Goudge, BBA ’76; and Suzanne Goudge, BBA ’76, all Life Members, were among the many San Antonio Longhorns who made the evening possible. From left: Warren and Melissa Branch, Walter and Catherine Brown, and Dan and Stacey Branch. Photo by Aaron Leondar.

Announcing the Lenora and Walter F. Brown Forty Acres Scholarship

San Antonio is a big city with an even bigger heart, as evidenced by the new Lenora and Walter F. Brown Forty Acres Scholarship. The scholarship—named in honor of Lenora Brown, BBA ’56, and Walter F. Brown, BBA ’57, Life Members—will give the best San Antonio-area students a premier education at UT-Austin. In addition to paying for all tuition, fees, and books, the Forty Acres Scholars Program provides a living stipend, study abroad and internship support, mentoring, and other resources. About 40 alumni and friends of the University celebrated the news Thursday night in a ceremony at the home of Catherine and Walter Brown, JD ’76. Texas Rep. Dan Branch and Texas Exes executive director and CEO Leslie Cedar were among the attendees. The Browns' gift was instrumental in making the scholarship possible, but it was also part of a larger community effort, says Blakeney Kurad, director of the Forty Acres Scholars Program and development. "We’re so appreciative of our alumni and the Browns' efforts to support not only the Forty Acres Scholars Program, but also the San Antonio community," Kurad says. Bruce Hill, BBA ’77; Sally Clayton, MPA ’84; Craig Clayton, BBA ’84; Jim Goudge, BBA ’76; and Suzanne Goudge, BBA ’76, all Life Members, were among the many San Antonio Longhorns who made the evening possible. From left: Warren and Melissa Branch, Walter and Catherine Brown, and Dan and Stacey Branch. Photo by Aaron Leondar.

Forty Acres Scholar Finds Home Onstage

Connor Healy's decision to pursue his passion at UT is opening new doors. After studying electrical engineering his freshman year, Forty Acres Scholar Connor Healy realized his classes were making him unhappy. He'd chosen engineering because he was good at math and science in high school—but they weren't what he loved. "In high school," Healy says, "my passion was acting. But when I chose my major at UT, I wasn't thinking about my passions; I was thinking about my skills." In November, Healy made the decision to drop his electrical engineering major in favor of studying Plan II Honors and history. He also decided to pursue his high school passion by joining the Plan II Honors theater troupe, the Broccoli Project. Healy has acted in two Broccoli Project plays so far: God's Ear, where he played the tooth fairy, and Paganini, where he played several goofy minor characters. Before this semester, Healy had always stood in front of the curtain. But he's ready to change that. "I’ve only ever had control over my own acting, and I wanted to have control over the whole creative process," Healy says. "I chose to be a director because I wanted to help mold performances. I wanted to be on the other side for once." The play Healy will direct—which cannot be named until creative rights are obtained—is a one-act play featuring only two actors. He says the play is about existential loneliness and learning to have genuine interactions with other people. "My biggest hope, on a basic level, is for it not to be boring," Healy says. "The actors really have to breathe life into the show. You have to be able to relate to both of them, because if you don’t, they’re stale." Healy will begin auditions for his play soon. Though he's not certain what life will look like after graduation, he says he isn't worried. "I’m getting such a great education that, no matter what, I’m going to be okay," Healy says. "It’s much more important to me to study and do what I love than to study something just because it might guarantee me salary security."

Forty Acres Scholar Finds Home Onstage

Connor Healy's decision to pursue his passion at UT is opening new doors. After studying electrical engineering his freshman year, Forty Acres Scholar Connor Healy realized his classes were making him unhappy. He'd chosen engineering because he was good at math and science in high school—but they weren't what he loved. "In high school," Healy says, "my passion was acting. But when I chose my major at UT, I wasn't thinking about my passions; I was thinking about my skills." In November, Healy made the decision to drop his electrical engineering major in favor of studying Plan II Honors and history. He also decided to pursue his high school passion by joining the Plan II Honors theater troupe, the Broccoli Project. Healy has acted in two Broccoli Project plays so far: God's Ear, where he played the tooth fairy, and Paganini, where he played several goofy minor characters. Before this semester, Healy had always stood in front of the curtain. But he's ready to change that. "I’ve only ever had control over my own acting, and I wanted to have control over the whole creative process," Healy says. "I chose to be a director because I wanted to help mold performances. I wanted to be on the other side for once." The play Healy will direct—which cannot be named until creative rights are obtained—is a one-act play featuring only two actors. He says the play is about existential loneliness and learning to have genuine interactions with other people. "My biggest hope, on a basic level, is for it not to be boring," Healy says. "The actors really have to breathe life into the show. You have to be able to relate to both of them, because if you don’t, they’re stale." Healy will begin auditions for his play soon. Though he's not certain what life will look like after graduation, he says he isn't worried. "I’m getting such a great education that, no matter what, I’m going to be okay," Healy says. "It’s much more important to me to study and do what I love than to study something just because it might guarantee me salary security."

Forty Acres Scholar Finds Home Onstage

Connor Healy's decision to pursue his passion at UT is opening new doors. After studying electrical engineering his freshman year, Forty Acres Scholar Connor Healy realized his classes were making him unhappy. He'd chosen engineering because he was good at math and science in high school—but they weren't what he loved. "In high school," Healy says, "my passion was acting. But when I chose my major at UT, I wasn't thinking about my passions; I was thinking about my skills." In November, Healy made the decision to drop his electrical engineering major in favor of studying Plan II Honors and history. He also decided to pursue his high school passion by joining the Plan II Honors theater troupe, the Broccoli Project. Healy has acted in two Broccoli Project plays so far: God's Ear, where he played the tooth fairy, and Paganini, where he played several goofy minor characters. Before this semester, Healy had always stood in front of the curtain. But he's ready to change that. "I’ve only ever had control over my own acting, and I wanted to have control over the whole creative process," Healy says. "I chose to be a director because I wanted to help mold performances. I wanted to be on the other side for once." The play Healy will direct—which cannot be named until creative rights are obtained—is a one-act play featuring only two actors. He says the play is about existential loneliness and learning to have genuine interactions with other people. "My biggest hope, on a basic level, is for it not to be boring," Healy says. "The actors really have to breathe life into the show. You have to be able to relate to both of them, because if you don’t, they’re stale." Healy will begin auditions for his play soon. Though he's not certain what life will look like after graduation, he says he isn't worried. "I’m getting such a great education that, no matter what, I’m going to be okay," Healy says. "It’s much more important to me to study and do what I love than to study something just because it might guarantee me salary security."

Dallas Chapter Mentorship Program Dreams Big [Watch]

Two years ago, the Texas Exes Dallas Chapter started a mentorship program that pairs the chapter's scholarship recipients with alumni and older students. Called Longhorn Match, the program is designed to give talented young students more than just a check. It fosters relationships between Dallas-area students and alumni, giving students an encouraging ear as they face the challenges of college. Freshmen in the program are paired with two mentors—an alumnus and an older student who was previously a mentee. That double layer of support makes a big difference, says chapter board member and mentor John Donovan, BBA ’84, Life Member, in the video above. "One of the neatest things that's happening is we've got last year's scholarship recipients now also being mentors to the new freshmen that are experiencing their first semester at UT," Donovan says. "Not only do they have a mentor back here, an alumni mentor, but they have a fellow student on campus." Learn about the origins of Longhorn Match in this 2011 Alcalde story. Video by Scott Hardesty.

Dallas Chapter Mentorship Program Dreams Big [Watch]

Two years ago, the Texas Exes Dallas Chapter started a mentorship program that pairs the chapter's scholarship recipients with alumni and older students. Called Longhorn Match, the program is designed to give talented young students more than just a check. It fosters relationships between Dallas-area students and alumni, giving students an encouraging ear as they face the challenges of college. Freshmen in the program are paired with two mentors—an alumnus and an older student who was previously a mentee. That double layer of support makes a big difference, says chapter board member and mentor John Donovan, BBA ’84, Life Member, in the video above. "One of the neatest things that's happening is we've got last year's scholarship recipients now also being mentors to the new freshmen that are experiencing their first semester at UT," Donovan says. "Not only do they have a mentor back here, an alumni mentor, but they have a fellow student on campus." Learn about the origins of Longhorn Match in this 2011 Alcalde story. Video by Scott Hardesty.

Dallas Chapter Mentorship Program Dreams Big [Watch]

Two years ago, the Texas Exes Dallas Chapter started a mentorship program that pairs the chapter's scholarship recipients with alumni and older students. Called Longhorn Match, the program is designed to give talented young students more than just a check. It fosters relationships between Dallas-area students and alumni, giving students an encouraging ear as they face the challenges of college. Freshmen in the program are paired with two mentors—an alumnus and an older student who was previously a mentee. That double layer of support makes a big difference, says chapter board member and mentor John Donovan, BBA ’84, Life Member, in the video above. "One of the neatest things that's happening is we've got last year's scholarship recipients now also being mentors to the new freshmen that are experiencing their first semester at UT," Donovan says. "Not only do they have a mentor back here, an alumni mentor, but they have a fellow student on campus." Learn about the origins of Longhorn Match in this 2011 Alcalde story. Video by Scott Hardesty.

Scholarships Get Streamlined

Even the most organized student is awash in a sea of scholarship paperwork and glossy college viewbooks. With literally thousands of possible scholarships—each with its own application and requirements—it’s a wonder anyone can keep it all straight. Thankfully, the Texas Exes has just made it all a little easier. This year the association—in partnership with UT—unveiled a vastly simplified system: starting in fall 2013, every UT applicant will automatically be considered for all Texas Exes scholarships. Previously, students had to submit separate applications. “We were making students jump through too many hoops,” says Texas Exes vice president of scholarships and development Lori Bolding. “If they didn’t find us on their own, they missed out. Now we’re finding them.” The new system is also completely digital, saving countless reams of paper and headaches for staff and students alike. While selection criteria won’t change—alumni volunteers will help select applicants just as before—Bolding says the new method will boost the program’s power. For example, not all Llano, Texas-area students know about the Roger Beasley Scholarship for Llano grads, but now they’ll automatically be in the running. “This transforms our program’s reach in a big way,” Bolding says.

Scholarships Get Streamlined

Even the most organized student is awash in a sea of scholarship paperwork and glossy college viewbooks. With literally thousands of possible scholarships—each with its own application and requirements—it’s a wonder anyone can keep it all straight. Thankfully, the Texas Exes has just made it all a little easier. This year the association—in partnership with UT—unveiled a vastly simplified system: starting in fall 2013, every UT applicant will automatically be considered for all Texas Exes scholarships. Previously, students had to submit separate applications. “We were making students jump through too many hoops,” says Texas Exes vice president of scholarships and development Lori Bolding. “If they didn’t find us on their own, they missed out. Now we’re finding them.” The new system is also completely digital, saving countless reams of paper and headaches for staff and students alike. While selection criteria won’t change—alumni volunteers will help select applicants just as before—Bolding says the new method will boost the program’s power. For example, not all Llano, Texas-area students know about the Roger Beasley Scholarship for Llano grads, but now they’ll automatically be in the running. “This transforms our program’s reach in a big way,” Bolding says.

Scholarships Get Streamlined

Even the most organized student is awash in a sea of scholarship paperwork and glossy college viewbooks. With literally thousands of possible scholarships—each with its own application and requirements—it’s a wonder anyone can keep it all straight. Thankfully, the Texas Exes has just made it all a little easier. This year the association—in partnership with UT—unveiled a vastly simplified system: starting in fall 2013, every UT applicant will automatically be considered for all Texas Exes scholarships. Previously, students had to submit separate applications. “We were making students jump through too many hoops,” says Texas Exes vice president of scholarships and development Lori Bolding. “If they didn’t find us on their own, they missed out. Now we’re finding them.” The new system is also completely digital, saving countless reams of paper and headaches for staff and students alike. While selection criteria won’t change—alumni volunteers will help select applicants just as before—Bolding says the new method will boost the program’s power. For example, not all Llano, Texas-area students know about the Roger Beasley Scholarship for Llano grads, but now they’ll automatically be in the running. “This transforms our program’s reach in a big way,” Bolding says.

Student Hopes to Join Business with Philanthropy

Senior business management major James San Marco—recipient of the Lowell Lebermann Texas Exes Scholarship—wants to own his own business one day, but he wants to make sure it maintains a philanthropic role. “I want to create a business that makes a difference in whatever it does, one that also gives back to the community in a big way,” San Marco says. “I want to spend my time in an environment that creates positive change.” Already, San Marco is in pursuit of that goal. As founder and president of SA for MDA, he has helped raise more than $65,000 for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). He has also served as a mentor for Communities in Schools of Central Texas, helping local students achieve their goals. San Marco has worked at the Texas Exes since January, first with chapters and now in the events department. Over the summer, he interned in San Francisco at Bloomberg LP as a financial analytics and sales intern. He has also studied abroad in Salamanca, Spain, and is both a Lime Connect fellow and a McKelvey Foundation Entrepreneurial Scholar. San Marco says being a TEA scholar has dramatically enhanced his time at UT. “It’s shown me a side of UT that is much more personal, and it’s given a big university more of a homey feel,” San Marco says. “There’s always somebody that cares, wants to help, and knows me personally and what my goals are.” The family atmosphere at the Texas Exes, San Marco says, has made TEA much more than a just a scholarship. “The relationships that I’ve developed over the years with the other scholars and people who work at Texas Exes have made for a really unique experience,” San Marco says. “It’s way more than a scholarship. It’s a full program. There are so many experiences, fun, and excitement.”

Student Hopes to Join Business with Philanthropy

Senior business management major James San Marco—recipient of the Lowell Lebermann Texas Exes Scholarship—wants to own his own business one day, but he wants to make sure it maintains a philanthropic role. “I want to create a business that makes a difference in whatever it does, one that also gives back to the community in a big way,” San Marco says. “I want to spend my time in an environment that creates positive change.” Already, San Marco is in pursuit of that goal. As founder and president of SA for MDA, he has helped raise more than $65,000 for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). He has also served as a mentor for Communities in Schools of Central Texas, helping local students achieve their goals. San Marco has worked at the Texas Exes since January, first with chapters and now in the events department. Over the summer, he interned in San Francisco at Bloomberg LP as a financial analytics and sales intern. He has also studied abroad in Salamanca, Spain, and is both a Lime Connect fellow and a McKelvey Foundation Entrepreneurial Scholar. San Marco says being a TEA scholar has dramatically enhanced his time at UT. “It’s shown me a side of UT that is much more personal, and it’s given a big university more of a homey feel,” San Marco says. “There’s always somebody that cares, wants to help, and knows me personally and what my goals are.” The family atmosphere at the Texas Exes, San Marco says, has made TEA much more than a just a scholarship. “The relationships that I’ve developed over the years with the other scholars and people who work at Texas Exes have made for a really unique experience,” San Marco says. “It’s way more than a scholarship. It’s a full program. There are so many experiences, fun, and excitement.”

Student Hopes to Join Business with Philanthropy

Senior business management major James San Marco—recipient of the Lowell Lebermann Texas Exes Scholarship—wants to own his own business one day, but he wants to make sure it maintains a philanthropic role. “I want to create a business that makes a difference in whatever it does, one that also gives back to the community in a big way,” San Marco says. “I want to spend my time in an environment that creates positive change.” Already, San Marco is in pursuit of that goal. As founder and president of SA for MDA, he has helped raise more than $65,000 for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). He has also served as a mentor for Communities in Schools of Central Texas, helping local students achieve their goals. San Marco has worked at the Texas Exes since January, first with chapters and now in the events department. Over the summer, he interned in San Francisco at Bloomberg LP as a financial analytics and sales intern. He has also studied abroad in Salamanca, Spain, and is both a Lime Connect fellow and a McKelvey Foundation Entrepreneurial Scholar. San Marco says being a TEA scholar has dramatically enhanced his time at UT. “It’s shown me a side of UT that is much more personal, and it’s given a big university more of a homey feel,” San Marco says. “There’s always somebody that cares, wants to help, and knows me personally and what my goals are.” The family atmosphere at the Texas Exes, San Marco says, has made TEA much more than a just a scholarship. “The relationships that I’ve developed over the years with the other scholars and people who work at Texas Exes have made for a really unique experience,” San Marco says. “It’s way more than a scholarship. It’s a full program. There are so many experiences, fun, and excitement.”

Forty Acres Scholar Explores Public Health in Bangladesh

Stephanie Eisner spent her summer learning to give back to a community in need. Last summer, Forty Acres Scholar Stephanie Eisner traveled to Bangladesh, where she held an internship and a research position dedicated to helping underserved rural communities. "Bangladesh is fascinating because it's the poorest country in the world, but it's developing so fast," Eisner says. "It really felt like I was going back in time." Eisner began her summer at Grameen Bank, a microfinance company whose founder, Muhammad Yunus, won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for his efforts in economic and social development.  While there, she was given the opportunity to work in rural areas outside of Urpur helping to empower women by interviewing them individually. From these personal interviews, Eisner and her fellow interns were able to create a report that will help the Grameen Bank distribute its loans more effectively. "The goal of the internship program is educational," Eisner said. " They want us to be able to go back to our lives and use their buisness model to help people." She then moved to a research position with the International Center for Diarrhoeal Disease Research where she worked for a week studying cholera in the short-stay unit of the hospital before transferring to study reproductive health and domestic violence in the slums. Eisner worked as a literature reviewer for a research paper about marriage and its influence on reproductive health. Through reading hundreds of academic papers, she learned about the different types of marriages in Dhaka and their effects on women. Eisner says this summer helped her learn to be intentional in the way she helps people. She does not want to serve in a capacity that only benefits her, she says. "I've always been really interested in finding important ways to bring about change outside of my own life and experiences," Eisner says. As a public health major, Eisner's experience in Bangladesh gave her a greater understanding of the complexity and difficulty in the world, in addition to helping her make decisions about her future after graduation. For now, she's considering medical school to become an obstetrician/gynecologist and work abroad. "My time in Bangladesh made me realize that life is way too short and way too precious to plan so that you can have an extensive résumé," Eisner says. Without the Forty Acres Scholars Program, Eisner says she would have had to spend the summer working to pay for school instead of using her skills to benefit others. "I just really feel like I've been given a lot," she says. "I see the gift that I've been given in this scholarship as something I can use so that others who aren't as fortunate can benefit as well." Next semester—though she has no experience in engineering—Eisner will put her creative ability and biology background to use working on prosthetic hands in an engineering lab. "UT tells you that you can be anything you want to be, " Eisner says. She has certainly taken that to heart.

Forty Acres Scholar Explores Public Health in Bangladesh

Stephanie Eisner spent her summer learning to give back to a community in need. Last summer, Forty Acres Scholar Stephanie Eisner traveled to Bangladesh, where she held an internship and a research position dedicated to helping underserved rural communities. "Bangladesh is fascinating because it's the poorest country in the world, but it's developing so fast," Eisner says. "It really felt like I was going back in time." Eisner began her summer at Grameen Bank, a microfinance company whose founder, Muhammad Yunus, won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for his efforts in economic and social development.  While there, she was given the opportunity to work in rural areas outside of Urpur helping to empower women by interviewing them individually. From these personal interviews, Eisner and her fellow interns were able to create a report that will help the Grameen Bank distribute its loans more effectively. "The goal of the internship program is educational," Eisner said. " They want us to be able to go back to our lives and use their buisness model to help people." She then moved to a research position with the International Center for Diarrhoeal Disease Research where she worked for a week studying cholera in the short-stay unit of the hospital before transferring to study reproductive health and domestic violence in the slums. Eisner worked as a literature reviewer for a research paper about marriage and its influence on reproductive health. Through reading hundreds of academic papers, she learned about the different types of marriages in Dhaka and their effects on women. Eisner says this summer helped her learn to be intentional in the way she helps people. She does not want to serve in a capacity that only benefits her, she says. "I've always been really interested in finding important ways to bring about change outside of my own life and experiences," Eisner says. As a public health major, Eisner's experience in Bangladesh gave her a greater understanding of the complexity and difficulty in the world, in addition to helping her make decisions about her future after graduation. For now, she's considering medical school to become an obstetrician/gynecologist and work abroad. "My time in Bangladesh made me realize that life is way too short and way too precious to plan so that you can have an extensive résumé," Eisner says. Without the Forty Acres Scholars Program, Eisner says she would have had to spend the summer working to pay for school instead of using her skills to benefit others. "I just really feel like I've been given a lot," she says. "I see the gift that I've been given in this scholarship as something I can use so that others who aren't as fortunate can benefit as well." Next semester—though she has no experience in engineering—Eisner will put her creative ability and biology background to use working on prosthetic hands in an engineering lab. "UT tells you that you can be anything you want to be, " Eisner says. She has certainly taken that to heart.

Forty Acres Scholar Explores Public Health in Bangladesh

Stephanie Eisner spent her summer learning to give back to a community in need. Last summer, Forty Acres Scholar Stephanie Eisner traveled to Bangladesh, where she held an internship and a research position dedicated to helping underserved rural communities. "Bangladesh is fascinating because it's the poorest country in the world, but it's developing so fast," Eisner says. "It really felt like I was going back in time." Eisner began her summer at Grameen Bank, a microfinance company whose founder, Muhammad Yunus, won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for his efforts in economic and social development.  While there, she was given the opportunity to work in rural areas outside of Urpur helping to empower women by interviewing them individually. From these personal interviews, Eisner and her fellow interns were able to create a report that will help the Grameen Bank distribute its loans more effectively. "The goal of the internship program is educational," Eisner said. " They want us to be able to go back to our lives and use their buisness model to help people." She then moved to a research position with the International Center for Diarrhoeal Disease Research where she worked for a week studying cholera in the short-stay unit of the hospital before transferring to study reproductive health and domestic violence in the slums. Eisner worked as a literature reviewer for a research paper about marriage and its influence on reproductive health. Through reading hundreds of academic papers, she learned about the different types of marriages in Dhaka and their effects on women. Eisner says this summer helped her learn to be intentional in the way she helps people. She does not want to serve in a capacity that only benefits her, she says. "I've always been really interested in finding important ways to bring about change outside of my own life and experiences," Eisner says. As a public health major, Eisner's experience in Bangladesh gave her a greater understanding of the complexity and difficulty in the world, in addition to helping her make decisions about her future after graduation. For now, she's considering medical school to become an obstetrician/gynecologist and work abroad. "My time in Bangladesh made me realize that life is way too short and way too precious to plan so that you can have an extensive résumé," Eisner says. Without the Forty Acres Scholars Program, Eisner says she would have had to spend the summer working to pay for school instead of using her skills to benefit others. "I just really feel like I've been given a lot," she says. "I see the gift that I've been given in this scholarship as something I can use so that others who aren't as fortunate can benefit as well." Next semester—though she has no experience in engineering—Eisner will put her creative ability and biology background to use working on prosthetic hands in an engineering lab. "UT tells you that you can be anything you want to be, " Eisner says. She has certainly taken that to heart.

Donning the Orange Jacket

Emily Gruener's early commitment to leadership is already paying off. As a sophomore, Emily Gruener has not had very much time to make an impact on The University of Texas, but her recent induction into the Orange Jackets will help. After serving as a representative, senator, and president of her high school student council, Gruener entered the University focused on pursuing a career in policy. As a government and Plan II major, she has joined Students for Education Reform and Student Government. She also serves on the executive board of the Undergraduate Research Journal. These qualities, she says, helped her become a good candidate for the Orange Jackets, a longstanding women's leadership organization. "I decided to apply because they've always had a really strong tradition of female leadership that I wanted to be a part of," Gruener says. As both a Forty Acres Scholar and an Orange Jacket, Gruener will have plenty of chances to embody the Orange Jacket tenets of scholarship, leadership, and service. "I'm so grateful for both of these opportunities," Gruener says. "I can continue trying to carry the tradition of so many of the famous [alumni] before me." "Emily is a compassionate, inquisitive, lovely new Tap [new Orange Jacket]," says the group's president, Maggie Gunn. "You can tell she is always thinking and always contributes volumes to the task or conversation at hand." Gruener will work with other new members on a yearlong service project that will benefit UT and the Austin community. "My goal for this year is really just to be a great, productive member of the tappee project," Gruener says. "I really just want that to be a huge success." Once the tappee project is completed in the spring, Gruener will be initiated as a member of The University of Texas' oldest honorary service organization. She will then be awarded the traditional orange vest worn by influential women before her, like Margaret C. Berry, Carol Keeton Strayhorn, and Lady Bird Johnson. "In general, I just want to leave a beneficial impact here at UT because the University has just given so much to me," Gruener says.

Donning the Orange Jacket

Emily Gruener's early commitment to leadership is already paying off. As a sophomore, Emily Gruener has not had very much time to make an impact on The University of Texas, but her recent induction into the Orange Jackets will help. After serving as a representative, senator, and president of her high school student council, Gruener entered the University focused on pursuing a career in policy. As a government and Plan II major, she has joined Students for Education Reform and Student Government. She also serves on the executive board of the Undergraduate Research Journal. These qualities, she says, helped her become a good candidate for the Orange Jackets, a longstanding women's leadership organization. "I decided to apply because they've always had a really strong tradition of female leadership that I wanted to be a part of," Gruener says. As both a Forty Acres Scholar and an Orange Jacket, Gruener will have plenty of chances to embody the Orange Jacket tenets of scholarship, leadership, and service. "I'm so grateful for both of these opportunities," Gruener says. "I can continue trying to carry the tradition of so many of the famous [alumni] before me." "Emily is a compassionate, inquisitive, lovely new Tap [new Orange Jacket]," says the group's president, Maggie Gunn. "You can tell she is always thinking and always contributes volumes to the task or conversation at hand." Gruener will work with other new members on a yearlong service project that will benefit UT and the Austin community. "My goal for this year is really just to be a great, productive member of the tappee project," Gruener says. "I really just want that to be a huge success." Once the tappee project is completed in the spring, Gruener will be initiated as a member of The University of Texas' oldest honorary service organization. She will then be awarded the traditional orange vest worn by influential women before her, like Margaret C. Berry, Carol Keeton Strayhorn, and Lady Bird Johnson. "In general, I just want to leave a beneficial impact here at UT because the University has just given so much to me," Gruener says.

Donning the Orange Jacket

Emily Gruener's early commitment to leadership is already paying off. As a sophomore, Emily Gruener has not had very much time to make an impact on The University of Texas, but her recent induction into the Orange Jackets will help. After serving as a representative, senator, and president of her high school student council, Gruener entered the University focused on pursuing a career in policy. As a government and Plan II major, she has joined Students for Education Reform and Student Government. She also serves on the executive board of the Undergraduate Research Journal. These qualities, she says, helped her become a good candidate for the Orange Jackets, a longstanding women's leadership organization. "I decided to apply because they've always had a really strong tradition of female leadership that I wanted to be a part of," Gruener says. As both a Forty Acres Scholar and an Orange Jacket, Gruener will have plenty of chances to embody the Orange Jacket tenets of scholarship, leadership, and service. "I'm so grateful for both of these opportunities," Gruener says. "I can continue trying to carry the tradition of so many of the famous [alumni] before me." "Emily is a compassionate, inquisitive, lovely new Tap [new Orange Jacket]," says the group's president, Maggie Gunn. "You can tell she is always thinking and always contributes volumes to the task or conversation at hand." Gruener will work with other new members on a yearlong service project that will benefit UT and the Austin community. "My goal for this year is really just to be a great, productive member of the tappee project," Gruener says. "I really just want that to be a huge success." Once the tappee project is completed in the spring, Gruener will be initiated as a member of The University of Texas' oldest honorary service organization. She will then be awarded the traditional orange vest worn by influential women before her, like Margaret C. Berry, Carol Keeton Strayhorn, and Lady Bird Johnson. "In general, I just want to leave a beneficial impact here at UT because the University has just given so much to me," Gruener says.