Forty Acres Scholar Chosen for Microsoft Internship

Jack McBee
Monica Bischoff

Monica Bischoff may only be a sophomore, but the Forty Acres Scholar has already achieved enormous success at The University of Texas. Bischoff, who is majoring in business honors and history, recently learned that she has been selected to be a finance analyst intern with Microsoft, a Fortune 100 company.

This summer, Bischoff will only afford herself a couple of weeks of vacation. On May 28, she will make her way north to Redmond, Washington, 13 miles outside of Seattle. Though the Houston native has never lived outside of Texas, she’s thrilled for a new experience. “My mother’s side of the family lives in and around San Francisco,” she says, “and I love the West Coast.”

A member of the inaugural class of Forty Acres Scholars, Bischoff is the recipient of the John and Cynthia Adkins/Texas Exes Houston Chapter Forty Acres Scholarship. She attributes much of her success to the Forty Acres Scholars Program. “The program just surrounds you with super motivated and inspirational people,” says Bischoff. “It’s gotten me to do things and go places I normally wouldn’t do or go.”

In addition to being a Forty Acres Scholar, Bischoff has served as assistant financial vice president of Alpha Xi Delta, one of the nation’s longest-standing women’s fraternities. She is also a member of the Texas Undergraduate Investment Team, a student-led organization that focuses on giving undergraduates practical, real-life experience in finance.

That experience will serve her well at Microsoft, where a demanding finance analyst rotation will task her with handling anything from financial analysis and reporting to internal auditing and venture integration.

“What I really hope to gain from the internship is a way to apply hands-on what I’m learning in my classes,” Bischoff says. "I get a chance to see how a large company like this works."

Bischoff has big plans for the future, but that doesn’t mean she’s in a hurry to graduate. “UT has just been amazing,” she says. “I don’t think I could be getting a better education.”

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Forty Acres Scholar Chosen for Microsoft Internship

Monica Bischoff may only be a sophomore, but the Forty Acres Scholar has already achieved enormous success at The University of Texas. Bischoff, who is majoring in business honors and history, recently learned that she has been selected to be a finance analyst intern with Microsoft, a Fortune 100 company. This summer, Bischoff will only afford herself a couple of weeks of vacation. On May 28, she will make her way north to Redmond, Washington, 13 miles outside of Seattle. Though the Houston native has never lived outside of Texas, she’s thrilled for a new experience. “My mother’s side of the family lives in and around San Francisco,” she says, “and I love the West Coast.” A member of the inaugural class of Forty Acres Scholars, Bischoff is the recipient of the John and Cynthia Adkins/Texas Exes Houston Chapter Forty Acres Scholarship. She attributes much of her success to the Forty Acres Scholars Program. “The program just surrounds you with super motivated and inspirational people,” says Bischoff. “It’s gotten me to do things and go places I normally wouldn’t do or go.” In addition to being a Forty Acres Scholar, Bischoff has served as assistant financial vice president of Alpha Xi Delta, one of the nation’s longest-standing women’s fraternities. She is also a member of the Texas Undergraduate Investment Team, a student-led organization that focuses on giving undergraduates practical, real-life experience in finance. That experience will serve her well at Microsoft, where a demanding finance analyst rotation will task her with handling anything from financial analysis and reporting to internal auditing and venture integration. “What I really hope to gain from the internship is a way to apply hands-on what I’m learning in my classes,” Bischoff says. "I get a chance to see how a large company like this works." Bischoff has big plans for the future, but that doesn’t mean she’s in a hurry to graduate. “UT has just been amazing,” she says. “I don’t think I could be getting a better education.”

Box List 1 - Teaser

Forty Acres Scholar Chosen for Microsoft Internship

Monica Bischoff may only be a sophomore, but the Forty Acres Scholar has already achieved enormous success at The University of Texas. Bischoff, who is majoring in business honors and history, recently learned that she has been selected to be a finance analyst intern with Microsoft, a Fortune 100 company. This summer, Bischoff will only afford herself a couple of weeks of vacation. On May 28, she will make her way north to Redmond, Washington, 13 miles outside of Seattle. Though the Houston native has never lived outside of Texas, she’s thrilled for a new experience. “My mother’s side of the family lives in and around San Francisco,” she says, “and I love the West Coast.” A member of the inaugural class of Forty Acres Scholars, Bischoff is the recipient of the John and Cynthia Adkins/Texas Exes Houston Chapter Forty Acres Scholarship. She attributes much of her success to the Forty Acres Scholars Program. “The program just surrounds you with super motivated and inspirational people,” says Bischoff. “It’s gotten me to do things and go places I normally wouldn’t do or go.” In addition to being a Forty Acres Scholar, Bischoff has served as assistant financial vice president of Alpha Xi Delta, one of the nation’s longest-standing women’s fraternities. She is also a member of the Texas Undergraduate Investment Team, a student-led organization that focuses on giving undergraduates practical, real-life experience in finance. That experience will serve her well at Microsoft, where a demanding finance analyst rotation will task her with handling anything from financial analysis and reporting to internal auditing and venture integration. “What I really hope to gain from the internship is a way to apply hands-on what I’m learning in my classes,” Bischoff says. "I get a chance to see how a large company like this works." Bischoff has big plans for the future, but that doesn’t mean she’s in a hurry to graduate. “UT has just been amazing,” she says. “I don’t think I could be getting a better education.”

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Forty Acres Scholar Chosen for Microsoft Internship

Monica Bischoff may only be a sophomore, but the Forty Acres Scholar has already achieved enormous success at The University of Texas. Bischoff, who is majoring in business honors and history, recently learned that she has been selected to be a finance analyst intern with Microsoft, a Fortune 100 company. This summer, Bischoff will only afford herself a couple of weeks of vacation. On May 28, she will make her way north to Redmond, Washington, 13 miles outside of Seattle. Though the Houston native has never lived outside of Texas, she’s thrilled for a new experience. “My mother’s side of the family lives in and around San Francisco,” she says, “and I love the West Coast.” A member of the inaugural class of Forty Acres Scholars, Bischoff is the recipient of the John and Cynthia Adkins/Texas Exes Houston Chapter Forty Acres Scholarship. She attributes much of her success to the Forty Acres Scholars Program. “The program just surrounds you with super motivated and inspirational people,” says Bischoff. “It’s gotten me to do things and go places I normally wouldn’t do or go.” In addition to being a Forty Acres Scholar, Bischoff has served as assistant financial vice president of Alpha Xi Delta, one of the nation’s longest-standing women’s fraternities. She is also a member of the Texas Undergraduate Investment Team, a student-led organization that focuses on giving undergraduates practical, real-life experience in finance. That experience will serve her well at Microsoft, where a demanding finance analyst rotation will task her with handling anything from financial analysis and reporting to internal auditing and venture integration. “What I really hope to gain from the internship is a way to apply hands-on what I’m learning in my classes,” Bischoff says. "I get a chance to see how a large company like this works." Bischoff has big plans for the future, but that doesn’t mean she’s in a hurry to graduate. “UT has just been amazing,” she says. “I don’t think I could be getting a better education.”

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Forty Acres Scholar Chosen for Microsoft Internship

Monica Bischoff may only be a sophomore, but the Forty Acres Scholar has already achieved enormous success at The University of Texas. Bischoff, who is majoring in business honors and history, recently learned that she has been selected to be a finance analyst intern with Microsoft, a Fortune 100 company. This summer, Bischoff will only afford herself a couple of weeks of vacation. On May 28, she will make her way north to Redmond, Washington, 13 miles outside of Seattle. Though the Houston native has never lived outside of Texas, she’s thrilled for a new experience. “My mother’s side of the family lives in and around San Francisco,” she says, “and I love the West Coast.” A member of the inaugural class of Forty Acres Scholars, Bischoff is the recipient of the John and Cynthia Adkins/Texas Exes Houston Chapter Forty Acres Scholarship. She attributes much of her success to the Forty Acres Scholars Program. “The program just surrounds you with super motivated and inspirational people,” says Bischoff. “It’s gotten me to do things and go places I normally wouldn’t do or go.” In addition to being a Forty Acres Scholar, Bischoff has served as assistant financial vice president of Alpha Xi Delta, one of the nation’s longest-standing women’s fraternities. She is also a member of the Texas Undergraduate Investment Team, a student-led organization that focuses on giving undergraduates practical, real-life experience in finance. That experience will serve her well at Microsoft, where a demanding finance analyst rotation will task her with handling anything from financial analysis and reporting to internal auditing and venture integration. “What I really hope to gain from the internship is a way to apply hands-on what I’m learning in my classes,” Bischoff says. "I get a chance to see how a large company like this works." Bischoff has big plans for the future, but that doesn’t mean she’s in a hurry to graduate. “UT has just been amazing,” she says. “I don’t think I could be getting a better education.”

Scholar Builds Career and Character at UT

Katy McDowall

The recipient of the George Allan Odam Texas Exes Scholarship is a pro at managing her time.

During her time on the Forty Acres, Jessica Schuck hasn't wasted a moment. The senior communications sciences and disorders major has revamped Texas Outdoorsmen, UT’s outdoors enthusiast group; interned in the developmental stuttering lab of the Intellectual Entrepreneurship Program; and been an active member of her sorority, Texas Kappa Delta.

She has also given campus tours through SHARE, served as a nanny, and interned at local clinics. These experiences that go beyond just academics, Schuck says, have shaped her time at UT.

“I feel I’ve been able to grow a lot better character,” Schuck says. “When I leave, I’ll be taking a lot more with me than I ever expected.”

As a TEA scholar, Schuck enjoyed getting to connect with alumni mentors who’ve inspired her to stay involved with the University after graduation.

“I don’t think I knew alumni had that sort of power,” Schuck says. “You can be just as involved as you were in school.”

After graduation, Schuck plans on attending graduate school for communication sciences, then go on to work at a school or open her own practice. She’s also got big dreams for the long-term—even possibly becoming a UT professor.

“I also hope to one day start a nonprofit alliance that works with home care and home therapy for families who have adopted or are fostering kids,” she says. “Because that’s a huge need right now, in Texas especially.”

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Jessica Schuck

Scholar Builds Career and Character at UT

The recipient of the George Allan Odam Texas Exes Scholarship is a pro at managing her time. During her time on the Forty Acres, Jessica Schuck hasn't wasted a moment. The senior communications sciences and disorders major has revamped Texas Outdoorsmen, UT’s outdoors enthusiast group; interned in the developmental stuttering lab of the Intellectual Entrepreneurship Program; and been an active member of her sorority, Texas Kappa Delta. She has also given campus tours through SHARE, served as a nanny, and interned at local clinics. These experiences that go beyond just academics, Schuck says, have shaped her time at UT. “I feel I’ve been able to grow a lot better character,” Schuck says. “When I leave, I’ll be taking a lot more with me than I ever expected.” As a TEA scholar, Schuck enjoyed getting to connect with alumni mentors who’ve inspired her to stay involved with the University after graduation. “I don’t think I knew alumni had that sort of power,” Schuck says. “You can be just as involved as you were in school.” After graduation, Schuck plans on attending graduate school for communication sciences, then go on to work at a school or open her own practice. She’s also got big dreams for the long-term—even possibly becoming a UT professor. “I also hope to one day start a nonprofit alliance that works with home care and home therapy for families who have adopted or are fostering kids,” she says. “Because that’s a huge need right now, in Texas especially.”

Box List 1 - Teaser

Jessica Schuck

Scholar Builds Career and Character at UT

The recipient of the George Allan Odam Texas Exes Scholarship is a pro at managing her time. During her time on the Forty Acres, Jessica Schuck hasn't wasted a moment. The senior communications sciences and disorders major has revamped Texas Outdoorsmen, UT’s outdoors enthusiast group; interned in the developmental stuttering lab of the Intellectual Entrepreneurship Program; and been an active member of her sorority, Texas Kappa Delta. She has also given campus tours through SHARE, served as a nanny, and interned at local clinics. These experiences that go beyond just academics, Schuck says, have shaped her time at UT. “I feel I’ve been able to grow a lot better character,” Schuck says. “When I leave, I’ll be taking a lot more with me than I ever expected.” As a TEA scholar, Schuck enjoyed getting to connect with alumni mentors who’ve inspired her to stay involved with the University after graduation. “I don’t think I knew alumni had that sort of power,” Schuck says. “You can be just as involved as you were in school.” After graduation, Schuck plans on attending graduate school for communication sciences, then go on to work at a school or open her own practice. She’s also got big dreams for the long-term—even possibly becoming a UT professor. “I also hope to one day start a nonprofit alliance that works with home care and home therapy for families who have adopted or are fostering kids,” she says. “Because that’s a huge need right now, in Texas especially.”

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Jessica Schuck

Scholar Builds Career and Character at UT

The recipient of the George Allan Odam Texas Exes Scholarship is a pro at managing her time. During her time on the Forty Acres, Jessica Schuck hasn't wasted a moment. The senior communications sciences and disorders major has revamped Texas Outdoorsmen, UT’s outdoors enthusiast group; interned in the developmental stuttering lab of the Intellectual Entrepreneurship Program; and been an active member of her sorority, Texas Kappa Delta. She has also given campus tours through SHARE, served as a nanny, and interned at local clinics. These experiences that go beyond just academics, Schuck says, have shaped her time at UT. “I feel I’ve been able to grow a lot better character,” Schuck says. “When I leave, I’ll be taking a lot more with me than I ever expected.” As a TEA scholar, Schuck enjoyed getting to connect with alumni mentors who’ve inspired her to stay involved with the University after graduation. “I don’t think I knew alumni had that sort of power,” Schuck says. “You can be just as involved as you were in school.” After graduation, Schuck plans on attending graduate school for communication sciences, then go on to work at a school or open her own practice. She’s also got big dreams for the long-term—even possibly becoming a UT professor. “I also hope to one day start a nonprofit alliance that works with home care and home therapy for families who have adopted or are fostering kids,” she says. “Because that’s a huge need right now, in Texas especially.”

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Jessica Schuck

Scholar Builds Career and Character at UT

The recipient of the George Allan Odam Texas Exes Scholarship is a pro at managing her time. During her time on the Forty Acres, Jessica Schuck hasn't wasted a moment. The senior communications sciences and disorders major has revamped Texas Outdoorsmen, UT’s outdoors enthusiast group; interned in the developmental stuttering lab of the Intellectual Entrepreneurship Program; and been an active member of her sorority, Texas Kappa Delta. She has also given campus tours through SHARE, served as a nanny, and interned at local clinics. These experiences that go beyond just academics, Schuck says, have shaped her time at UT. “I feel I’ve been able to grow a lot better character,” Schuck says. “When I leave, I’ll be taking a lot more with me than I ever expected.” As a TEA scholar, Schuck enjoyed getting to connect with alumni mentors who’ve inspired her to stay involved with the University after graduation. “I don’t think I knew alumni had that sort of power,” Schuck says. “You can be just as involved as you were in school.” After graduation, Schuck plans on attending graduate school for communication sciences, then go on to work at a school or open her own practice. She’s also got big dreams for the long-term—even possibly becoming a UT professor. “I also hope to one day start a nonprofit alliance that works with home care and home therapy for families who have adopted or are fostering kids,” she says. “Because that’s a huge need right now, in Texas especially.”

Scholar Explores South African and South Korean Cultures

Katy McDowall

The Eugene McDermott Texas Exes Scholarship has sent Hannah Waitt around the globe.

Inspired by a YouTube video a friend posted on her Facebook wall, Hannah Waitt, a senior Plan II Honors Program student majoring in international relations and global studies, traveled around the world to Seoul, South Korea, this past spring to study the emerging Korean music industry.

Waitt says her research, which is for her Plan II thesis, explores the differences between the South Korean and American music industries.

“There hasn’t been a lot of research done on the Korean music industry, and it’s this big, booming, flourishing thing that’s going on culturally,” Waitt says. “America is literally one of the last places that it’s reaching.”

South Korea was Waitt’s second study abroad trip. In the summer following her freshman year, she traveled to South Africa, where she worked with underprivileged children. The two trips, Waitt says, would not have been possible without her TEA scholarship.

“A lot of kids don’t even get to go one time,” Wait says. “I still can’t believe I got to go twice.”

Waitt is just as involved on campus as she is abroad. She has served as vice president of public relations for her sorority, Texas Kappa Delta. She is a member of the Texas Spirits, a social, spirit, and service organization at UT, and played for UT’s women’s club soccer team.

Being involved with the Texas Exes has led to other opportunities as well, including meeting her mentor, Rudy Garza, a former president of the alumni association.

“It has been a really great networking opportunity,” Waitt says. “I’ve gotten to meet some really amazing people who have done some phenomenal things in life.”

Next year, Waitt says she may attend graduate school, though she’s considering moving abroad and teaching for a year before continuing her education.

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Hannah Waitt

Scholar Explores South African and South Korean Cultures

The Eugene McDermott Texas Exes Scholarship has sent Hannah Waitt around the globe. Inspired by a YouTube video a friend posted on her Facebook wall, Hannah Waitt, a senior Plan II Honors Program student majoring in international relations and global studies, traveled around the world to Seoul, South Korea, this past spring to study the emerging Korean music industry. Waitt says her research, which is for her Plan II thesis, explores the differences between the South Korean and American music industries. “There hasn’t been a lot of research done on the Korean music industry, and it’s this big, booming, flourishing thing that’s going on culturally,” Waitt says. “America is literally one of the last places that it’s reaching.” South Korea was Waitt’s second study abroad trip. In the summer following her freshman year, she traveled to South Africa, where she worked with underprivileged children. The two trips, Waitt says, would not have been possible without her TEA scholarship. “A lot of kids don’t even get to go one time,” Wait says. “I still can’t believe I got to go twice.” Waitt is just as involved on campus as she is abroad. She has served as vice president of public relations for her sorority, Texas Kappa Delta. She is a member of the Texas Spirits, a social, spirit, and service organization at UT, and played for UT’s women’s club soccer team. Being involved with the Texas Exes has led to other opportunities as well, including meeting her mentor, Rudy Garza, a former president of the alumni association. “It has been a really great networking opportunity,” Waitt says. “I’ve gotten to meet some really amazing people who have done some phenomenal things in life.” Next year, Waitt says she may attend graduate school, though she’s considering moving abroad and teaching for a year before continuing her education.

Box List 1 - Teaser

Hannah Waitt

Scholar Explores South African and South Korean Cultures

The Eugene McDermott Texas Exes Scholarship has sent Hannah Waitt around the globe. Inspired by a YouTube video a friend posted on her Facebook wall, Hannah Waitt, a senior Plan II Honors Program student majoring in international relations and global studies, traveled around the world to Seoul, South Korea, this past spring to study the emerging Korean music industry. Waitt says her research, which is for her Plan II thesis, explores the differences between the South Korean and American music industries. “There hasn’t been a lot of research done on the Korean music industry, and it’s this big, booming, flourishing thing that’s going on culturally,” Waitt says. “America is literally one of the last places that it’s reaching.” South Korea was Waitt’s second study abroad trip. In the summer following her freshman year, she traveled to South Africa, where she worked with underprivileged children. The two trips, Waitt says, would not have been possible without her TEA scholarship. “A lot of kids don’t even get to go one time,” Wait says. “I still can’t believe I got to go twice.” Waitt is just as involved on campus as she is abroad. She has served as vice president of public relations for her sorority, Texas Kappa Delta. She is a member of the Texas Spirits, a social, spirit, and service organization at UT, and played for UT’s women’s club soccer team. Being involved with the Texas Exes has led to other opportunities as well, including meeting her mentor, Rudy Garza, a former president of the alumni association. “It has been a really great networking opportunity,” Waitt says. “I’ve gotten to meet some really amazing people who have done some phenomenal things in life.” Next year, Waitt says she may attend graduate school, though she’s considering moving abroad and teaching for a year before continuing her education.

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Hannah Waitt

Scholar Explores South African and South Korean Cultures

The Eugene McDermott Texas Exes Scholarship has sent Hannah Waitt around the globe. Inspired by a YouTube video a friend posted on her Facebook wall, Hannah Waitt, a senior Plan II Honors Program student majoring in international relations and global studies, traveled around the world to Seoul, South Korea, this past spring to study the emerging Korean music industry. Waitt says her research, which is for her Plan II thesis, explores the differences between the South Korean and American music industries. “There hasn’t been a lot of research done on the Korean music industry, and it’s this big, booming, flourishing thing that’s going on culturally,” Waitt says. “America is literally one of the last places that it’s reaching.” South Korea was Waitt’s second study abroad trip. In the summer following her freshman year, she traveled to South Africa, where she worked with underprivileged children. The two trips, Waitt says, would not have been possible without her TEA scholarship. “A lot of kids don’t even get to go one time,” Wait says. “I still can’t believe I got to go twice.” Waitt is just as involved on campus as she is abroad. She has served as vice president of public relations for her sorority, Texas Kappa Delta. She is a member of the Texas Spirits, a social, spirit, and service organization at UT, and played for UT’s women’s club soccer team. Being involved with the Texas Exes has led to other opportunities as well, including meeting her mentor, Rudy Garza, a former president of the alumni association. “It has been a really great networking opportunity,” Waitt says. “I’ve gotten to meet some really amazing people who have done some phenomenal things in life.” Next year, Waitt says she may attend graduate school, though she’s considering moving abroad and teaching for a year before continuing her education.

View List

Hannah Waitt

Scholar Explores South African and South Korean Cultures

The Eugene McDermott Texas Exes Scholarship has sent Hannah Waitt around the globe. Inspired by a YouTube video a friend posted on her Facebook wall, Hannah Waitt, a senior Plan II Honors Program student majoring in international relations and global studies, traveled around the world to Seoul, South Korea, this past spring to study the emerging Korean music industry. Waitt says her research, which is for her Plan II thesis, explores the differences between the South Korean and American music industries. “There hasn’t been a lot of research done on the Korean music industry, and it’s this big, booming, flourishing thing that’s going on culturally,” Waitt says. “America is literally one of the last places that it’s reaching.” South Korea was Waitt’s second study abroad trip. In the summer following her freshman year, she traveled to South Africa, where she worked with underprivileged children. The two trips, Waitt says, would not have been possible without her TEA scholarship. “A lot of kids don’t even get to go one time,” Wait says. “I still can’t believe I got to go twice.” Waitt is just as involved on campus as she is abroad. She has served as vice president of public relations for her sorority, Texas Kappa Delta. She is a member of the Texas Spirits, a social, spirit, and service organization at UT, and played for UT’s women’s club soccer team. Being involved with the Texas Exes has led to other opportunities as well, including meeting her mentor, Rudy Garza, a former president of the alumni association. “It has been a really great networking opportunity,” Waitt says. “I’ve gotten to meet some really amazing people who have done some phenomenal things in life.” Next year, Waitt says she may attend graduate school, though she’s considering moving abroad and teaching for a year before continuing her education.

Great Scholars Are Brewing in Shiner, Texas

Kelsey McKinney

They can't even legally drink yet, but for four Shiner, Texas high school students, Shiner Beer is already having a profound impact on their college careers.

Last fall, the Shiner Brewery Scholarship was awarded for the first time to two UT-bound high school students from the Southeast Texas town of Shiner—one each from the two local high schools, St. Paul and Shiner. Now in its second year, the scholarship aims to keep bright, talented students in the Lone Star State by providing $20,000 per year for four years to deserving future Longhorns.

Devin Pesek, a junior microbiology and pre-med major at UT, was one of Shiner Brewery's first recipients. "Getting this scholarship is what made me ultimately decide to come to Texas," Pesek says. "Without it, I think I'd be in North Carolina [at Duke] right now."

Carlos Alvarez, chairman and CEO of Shiner's parent company, Gambrinus, says that Gambrinus wanted to support education and the University.

"The major factor that made a difference is the fact that we could do these through [the Texas Exes]," Alvarez says. "If we hadn't had access to a user-friendly system or structure to provide with selection and administrative tasks, it would probably not have been a decision that we would have made."

This fall, the brewery has four students on the Forty Acres, who hopefully will continue to interact with the Shiner  community after graduation. Pesek says he has "no doubt he'll move back to a place like Shiner one day."

"We may, down the road, benefit from their education and having invested in their education," Alvarez says. "They will hopefully come back to the neighborhood and help the area grow and prosper."

Pesek has dreams of working in the medical field and is studying to take the MCAT this spring. Receiving the Shiner Brewery Scholarship has created opportunities for Pesek he didn't think were possible.

"I've always wanted to study abroad, but it's kind of expensive," Pesek says. "Having this scholarship has allowed me to apply to study abroad in Spain next summer. I don't know if I would have had that opportunity if my school hadn't been paid for."

Scholars at Shiner

Above, from left: Jimmy Mauric, Lisa Mauric, Recipient Jessica Arledge, Recipient Devin Pesek, Malu Alvarez, and Carlos Alvarez. Photo by Steve Moakley. 

Top: Photo by AlphaTangoBravo via Flickr Creative Commons.

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J. Spoetzl Brewery

Great Scholars Are Brewing in Shiner, Texas

They can't even legally drink yet, but for four Shiner, Texas high school students, Shiner Beer is already having a profound impact on their college careers. Last fall, the Shiner Brewery Scholarship was awarded for the first time to two UT-bound high school students from the Southeast Texas town of Shiner—one each from the two local high schools, St. Paul and Shiner. Now in its second year, the scholarship aims to keep bright, talented students in the Lone Star State by providing $20,000 per year for four years to deserving future Longhorns. Devin Pesek, a junior microbiology and pre-med major at UT, was one of Shiner Brewery's first recipients. "Getting this scholarship is what made me ultimately decide to come to Texas," Pesek says. "Without it, I think I'd be in North Carolina [at Duke] right now." Carlos Alvarez, chairman and CEO of Shiner's parent company, Gambrinus, says that Gambrinus wanted to support education and the University. "The major factor that made a difference is the fact that we could do these through [the Texas Exes]," Alvarez says. "If we hadn't had access to a user-friendly system or structure to provide with selection and administrative tasks, it would probably not have been a decision that we would have made." This fall, the brewery has four students on the Forty Acres, who hopefully will continue to interact with the Shiner  community after graduation. Pesek says he has "no doubt he'll move back to a place like Shiner one day." "We may, down the road, benefit from their education and having invested in their education," Alvarez says. "They will hopefully come back to the neighborhood and help the area grow and prosper." Pesek has dreams of working in the medical field and is studying to take the MCAT this spring. Receiving the Shiner Brewery Scholarship has created opportunities for Pesek he didn't think were possible. "I've always wanted to study abroad, but it's kind of expensive," Pesek says. "Having this scholarship has allowed me to apply to study abroad in Spain next summer. I don't know if I would have had that opportunity if my school hadn't been paid for." Above, from left: Jimmy Mauric, Lisa Mauric, Recipient Jessica Arledge, Recipient Devin Pesek, Malu Alvarez, and Carlos Alvarez. Photo by Steve Moakley.  Top: Photo by AlphaTangoBravo via Flickr Creative Commons.

Box List 1 - Teaser

J. Spoetzl Brewery

Great Scholars Are Brewing in Shiner, Texas

They can't even legally drink yet, but for four Shiner, Texas high school students, Shiner Beer is already having a profound impact on their college careers. Last fall, the Shiner Brewery Scholarship was awarded for the first time to two UT-bound high school students from the Southeast Texas town of Shiner—one each from the two local high schools, St. Paul and Shiner. Now in its second year, the scholarship aims to keep bright, talented students in the Lone Star State by providing $20,000 per year for four years to deserving future Longhorns. Devin Pesek, a junior microbiology and pre-med major at UT, was one of Shiner Brewery's first recipients. "Getting this scholarship is what made me ultimately decide to come to Texas," Pesek says. "Without it, I think I'd be in North Carolina [at Duke] right now." Carlos Alvarez, chairman and CEO of Shiner's parent company, Gambrinus, says that Gambrinus wanted to support education and the University. "The major factor that made a difference is the fact that we could do these through [the Texas Exes]," Alvarez says. "If we hadn't had access to a user-friendly system or structure to provide with selection and administrative tasks, it would probably not have been a decision that we would have made." This fall, the brewery has four students on the Forty Acres, who hopefully will continue to interact with the Shiner  community after graduation. Pesek says he has "no doubt he'll move back to a place like Shiner one day." "We may, down the road, benefit from their education and having invested in their education," Alvarez says. "They will hopefully come back to the neighborhood and help the area grow and prosper." Pesek has dreams of working in the medical field and is studying to take the MCAT this spring. Receiving the Shiner Brewery Scholarship has created opportunities for Pesek he didn't think were possible. "I've always wanted to study abroad, but it's kind of expensive," Pesek says. "Having this scholarship has allowed me to apply to study abroad in Spain next summer. I don't know if I would have had that opportunity if my school hadn't been paid for." Above, from left: Jimmy Mauric, Lisa Mauric, Recipient Jessica Arledge, Recipient Devin Pesek, Malu Alvarez, and Carlos Alvarez. Photo by Steve Moakley.  Top: Photo by AlphaTangoBravo via Flickr Creative Commons.

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J. Spoetzl Brewery

Great Scholars Are Brewing in Shiner, Texas

They can't even legally drink yet, but for four Shiner, Texas high school students, Shiner Beer is already having a profound impact on their college careers. Last fall, the Shiner Brewery Scholarship was awarded for the first time to two UT-bound high school students from the Southeast Texas town of Shiner—one each from the two local high schools, St. Paul and Shiner. Now in its second year, the scholarship aims to keep bright, talented students in the Lone Star State by providing $20,000 per year for four years to deserving future Longhorns. Devin Pesek, a junior microbiology and pre-med major at UT, was one of Shiner Brewery's first recipients. "Getting this scholarship is what made me ultimately decide to come to Texas," Pesek says. "Without it, I think I'd be in North Carolina [at Duke] right now." Carlos Alvarez, chairman and CEO of Shiner's parent company, Gambrinus, says that Gambrinus wanted to support education and the University. "The major factor that made a difference is the fact that we could do these through [the Texas Exes]," Alvarez says. "If we hadn't had access to a user-friendly system or structure to provide with selection and administrative tasks, it would probably not have been a decision that we would have made." This fall, the brewery has four students on the Forty Acres, who hopefully will continue to interact with the Shiner  community after graduation. Pesek says he has "no doubt he'll move back to a place like Shiner one day." "We may, down the road, benefit from their education and having invested in their education," Alvarez says. "They will hopefully come back to the neighborhood and help the area grow and prosper." Pesek has dreams of working in the medical field and is studying to take the MCAT this spring. Receiving the Shiner Brewery Scholarship has created opportunities for Pesek he didn't think were possible. "I've always wanted to study abroad, but it's kind of expensive," Pesek says. "Having this scholarship has allowed me to apply to study abroad in Spain next summer. I don't know if I would have had that opportunity if my school hadn't been paid for." Above, from left: Jimmy Mauric, Lisa Mauric, Recipient Jessica Arledge, Recipient Devin Pesek, Malu Alvarez, and Carlos Alvarez. Photo by Steve Moakley.  Top: Photo by AlphaTangoBravo via Flickr Creative Commons.

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J. Spoetzl Brewery

Great Scholars Are Brewing in Shiner, Texas

They can't even legally drink yet, but for four Shiner, Texas high school students, Shiner Beer is already having a profound impact on their college careers. Last fall, the Shiner Brewery Scholarship was awarded for the first time to two UT-bound high school students from the Southeast Texas town of Shiner—one each from the two local high schools, St. Paul and Shiner. Now in its second year, the scholarship aims to keep bright, talented students in the Lone Star State by providing $20,000 per year for four years to deserving future Longhorns. Devin Pesek, a junior microbiology and pre-med major at UT, was one of Shiner Brewery's first recipients. "Getting this scholarship is what made me ultimately decide to come to Texas," Pesek says. "Without it, I think I'd be in North Carolina [at Duke] right now." Carlos Alvarez, chairman and CEO of Shiner's parent company, Gambrinus, says that Gambrinus wanted to support education and the University. "The major factor that made a difference is the fact that we could do these through [the Texas Exes]," Alvarez says. "If we hadn't had access to a user-friendly system or structure to provide with selection and administrative tasks, it would probably not have been a decision that we would have made." This fall, the brewery has four students on the Forty Acres, who hopefully will continue to interact with the Shiner  community after graduation. Pesek says he has "no doubt he'll move back to a place like Shiner one day." "We may, down the road, benefit from their education and having invested in their education," Alvarez says. "They will hopefully come back to the neighborhood and help the area grow and prosper." Pesek has dreams of working in the medical field and is studying to take the MCAT this spring. Receiving the Shiner Brewery Scholarship has created opportunities for Pesek he didn't think were possible. "I've always wanted to study abroad, but it's kind of expensive," Pesek says. "Having this scholarship has allowed me to apply to study abroad in Spain next summer. I don't know if I would have had that opportunity if my school hadn't been paid for." Above, from left: Jimmy Mauric, Lisa Mauric, Recipient Jessica Arledge, Recipient Devin Pesek, Malu Alvarez, and Carlos Alvarez. Photo by Steve Moakley.  Top: Photo by AlphaTangoBravo via Flickr Creative Commons.

Student Starts Nonprofit to Aide Native Americans Living in Poverty

Katy McDowall

Joseph Washington is the recipient of Mrs. Harold Myers Texas Exes Scholarship.

A startling 28.4 percent of Native Americans live in poverty, according to 2010 U.S. Census data. Across the nation, income, employment, and education levels on Native American reservations are considerably lower than the national averages.

Troubled by these facts, Joseph Washington, a senior international relations major, co-founded The Turquoise Boy: a nonprofit that helps better the lives of those living on reservations by increasing employment opportunities.

“There are so many organizations around campus that focus on sending people to India or Africa, but there’s nobody that focuses on a group that’s been marginalized so close to home,” Washington says. “I don’t think it registers to the American people that there are people in our society that live at that level of poverty.”

Washington is also very involved on the Forty Acres. He has worked with Texas Student TV as a producer for the current events program The Current and the comedy news show TNN (Totally Not News). He has also served as an assistant editor for UT’s Undergraduate Research Journal and as an editorial intern for The Alcalde.

As a TEA scholar, Washington says being involved with the Texas Exes has been rewarding because he has been able to meet and network with amazing professors and alumni.

“Being a part of this family as somebody whose parents are not from the state of Texas has been a really eye-opening experience into what it really means to be a Texan,” Washington says. “I think that Texas Exes are a special breed. They’re really close to each other.”

After graduation, Washington says he plans to go to graduate school to study public policy. Although he’s not sure what he’ll do in the future, he knows that he wants to work in communities around Texas.

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Joseph Washington

Student Starts Nonprofit to Aide Native Americans Living in Poverty

Joseph Washington is the recipient of Mrs. Harold Myers Texas Exes Scholarship. A startling 28.4 percent of Native Americans live in poverty, according to 2010 U.S. Census data. Across the nation, income, employment, and education levels on Native American reservations are considerably lower than the national averages. Troubled by these facts, Joseph Washington, a senior international relations major, co-founded The Turquoise Boy: a nonprofit that helps better the lives of those living on reservations by increasing employment opportunities. “There are so many organizations around campus that focus on sending people to India or Africa, but there’s nobody that focuses on a group that’s been marginalized so close to home,” Washington says. “I don’t think it registers to the American people that there are people in our society that live at that level of poverty.” Washington is also very involved on the Forty Acres. He has worked with Texas Student TV as a producer for the current events program The Current and the comedy news show TNN (Totally Not News). He has also served as an assistant editor for UT’s Undergraduate Research Journal and as an editorial intern for The Alcalde. As a TEA scholar, Washington says being involved with the Texas Exes has been rewarding because he has been able to meet and network with amazing professors and alumni. “Being a part of this family as somebody whose parents are not from the state of Texas has been a really eye-opening experience into what it really means to be a Texan,” Washington says. “I think that Texas Exes are a special breed. They’re really close to each other.” After graduation, Washington says he plans to go to graduate school to study public policy. Although he’s not sure what he’ll do in the future, he knows that he wants to work in communities around Texas.

Box List 1 - Teaser

Joseph Washington

Student Starts Nonprofit to Aide Native Americans Living in Poverty

Joseph Washington is the recipient of Mrs. Harold Myers Texas Exes Scholarship. A startling 28.4 percent of Native Americans live in poverty, according to 2010 U.S. Census data. Across the nation, income, employment, and education levels on Native American reservations are considerably lower than the national averages. Troubled by these facts, Joseph Washington, a senior international relations major, co-founded The Turquoise Boy: a nonprofit that helps better the lives of those living on reservations by increasing employment opportunities. “There are so many organizations around campus that focus on sending people to India or Africa, but there’s nobody that focuses on a group that’s been marginalized so close to home,” Washington says. “I don’t think it registers to the American people that there are people in our society that live at that level of poverty.” Washington is also very involved on the Forty Acres. He has worked with Texas Student TV as a producer for the current events program The Current and the comedy news show TNN (Totally Not News). He has also served as an assistant editor for UT’s Undergraduate Research Journal and as an editorial intern for The Alcalde. As a TEA scholar, Washington says being involved with the Texas Exes has been rewarding because he has been able to meet and network with amazing professors and alumni. “Being a part of this family as somebody whose parents are not from the state of Texas has been a really eye-opening experience into what it really means to be a Texan,” Washington says. “I think that Texas Exes are a special breed. They’re really close to each other.” After graduation, Washington says he plans to go to graduate school to study public policy. Although he’s not sure what he’ll do in the future, he knows that he wants to work in communities around Texas.

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Joseph Washington

Student Starts Nonprofit to Aide Native Americans Living in Poverty

Joseph Washington is the recipient of Mrs. Harold Myers Texas Exes Scholarship. A startling 28.4 percent of Native Americans live in poverty, according to 2010 U.S. Census data. Across the nation, income, employment, and education levels on Native American reservations are considerably lower than the national averages. Troubled by these facts, Joseph Washington, a senior international relations major, co-founded The Turquoise Boy: a nonprofit that helps better the lives of those living on reservations by increasing employment opportunities. “There are so many organizations around campus that focus on sending people to India or Africa, but there’s nobody that focuses on a group that’s been marginalized so close to home,” Washington says. “I don’t think it registers to the American people that there are people in our society that live at that level of poverty.” Washington is also very involved on the Forty Acres. He has worked with Texas Student TV as a producer for the current events program The Current and the comedy news show TNN (Totally Not News). He has also served as an assistant editor for UT’s Undergraduate Research Journal and as an editorial intern for The Alcalde. As a TEA scholar, Washington says being involved with the Texas Exes has been rewarding because he has been able to meet and network with amazing professors and alumni. “Being a part of this family as somebody whose parents are not from the state of Texas has been a really eye-opening experience into what it really means to be a Texan,” Washington says. “I think that Texas Exes are a special breed. They’re really close to each other.” After graduation, Washington says he plans to go to graduate school to study public policy. Although he’s not sure what he’ll do in the future, he knows that he wants to work in communities around Texas.

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Joseph Washington

Student Starts Nonprofit to Aide Native Americans Living in Poverty

Joseph Washington is the recipient of Mrs. Harold Myers Texas Exes Scholarship. A startling 28.4 percent of Native Americans live in poverty, according to 2010 U.S. Census data. Across the nation, income, employment, and education levels on Native American reservations are considerably lower than the national averages. Troubled by these facts, Joseph Washington, a senior international relations major, co-founded The Turquoise Boy: a nonprofit that helps better the lives of those living on reservations by increasing employment opportunities. “There are so many organizations around campus that focus on sending people to India or Africa, but there’s nobody that focuses on a group that’s been marginalized so close to home,” Washington says. “I don’t think it registers to the American people that there are people in our society that live at that level of poverty.” Washington is also very involved on the Forty Acres. He has worked with Texas Student TV as a producer for the current events program The Current and the comedy news show TNN (Totally Not News). He has also served as an assistant editor for UT’s Undergraduate Research Journal and as an editorial intern for The Alcalde. As a TEA scholar, Washington says being involved with the Texas Exes has been rewarding because he has been able to meet and network with amazing professors and alumni. “Being a part of this family as somebody whose parents are not from the state of Texas has been a really eye-opening experience into what it really means to be a Texan,” Washington says. “I think that Texas Exes are a special breed. They’re really close to each other.” After graduation, Washington says he plans to go to graduate school to study public policy. Although he’s not sure what he’ll do in the future, he knows that he wants to work in communities around Texas.

Forty Acres Scholar Elected to Liberal Arts Council

Kelsey McKinney
Arjun Rawal

Arjun Rawal is a first-year Forty Acres Scholar, but he is already making an impact at UT. Rawal was recently elected as a member of the Committee on Academic Affairs for the Liberal Arts Council.

As a member of the committee, Rawal will focus on facilitating discussions of academic issues and making sure that those problems become more transparent between the student body and the dean of the College of Liberal Arts.

"I really want to use Liberal Arts Council as a medium to implement my change on the University," Rawal says.  Though only a freshman, Rawal has big plans for his upcoming years at UT.

"I would really like to become an executive officer," Rawal says. "That's the long-term goal. I want to help impact the University in ways regarding academics."

Rawal has had the opportunity to work on the passing of the new University honor code. He is grateful for the experience because it gave him insight into how legal documents are written and organized.

"I'm considering law school, so I figured any experience I can get now, as an undergraduate, would help me understand what that future could look like," Rawal says.

As a Middle Eastern studies major, Rawal hopes that his time with the Liberal Arts Council will help prepare him for the future.

"I'm really interested in foreign policy," he says. "By majoring in Middle Eastern studies, I'll have enough knowledge of the cultures and the traditions of that region of the world to help craft policy that will take those into account."

Rawal says that he is incredibly grateful to be a Forty Acres Scholar. "To be a scholar," he says, "is really the best. I feel like it is the most incredible opportunity here at UT. I'm excited to have the best four years here at UT that I possibly can."

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Forty Acres Scholar Elected to Liberal Arts Council

Arjun Rawal is a first-year Forty Acres Scholar, but he is already making an impact at UT. Rawal was recently elected as a member of the Committee on Academic Affairs for the Liberal Arts Council. As a member of the committee, Rawal will focus on facilitating discussions of academic issues and making sure that those problems become more transparent between the student body and the dean of the College of Liberal Arts. "I really want to use Liberal Arts Council as a medium to implement my change on the University," Rawal says.  Though only a freshman, Rawal has big plans for his upcoming years at UT. "I would really like to become an executive officer," Rawal says. "That's the long-term goal. I want to help impact the University in ways regarding academics." Rawal has had the opportunity to work on the passing of the new University honor code. He is grateful for the experience because it gave him insight into how legal documents are written and organized. "I'm considering law school, so I figured any experience I can get now, as an undergraduate, would help me understand what that future could look like," Rawal says. As a Middle Eastern studies major, Rawal hopes that his time with the Liberal Arts Council will help prepare him for the future. "I'm really interested in foreign policy," he says. "By majoring in Middle Eastern studies, I'll have enough knowledge of the cultures and the traditions of that region of the world to help craft policy that will take those into account." Rawal says that he is incredibly grateful to be a Forty Acres Scholar. "To be a scholar," he says, "is really the best. I feel like it is the most incredible opportunity here at UT. I'm excited to have the best four years here at UT that I possibly can."

Box List 1 - Teaser

Forty Acres Scholar Elected to Liberal Arts Council

Arjun Rawal is a first-year Forty Acres Scholar, but he is already making an impact at UT. Rawal was recently elected as a member of the Committee on Academic Affairs for the Liberal Arts Council. As a member of the committee, Rawal will focus on facilitating discussions of academic issues and making sure that those problems become more transparent between the student body and the dean of the College of Liberal Arts. "I really want to use Liberal Arts Council as a medium to implement my change on the University," Rawal says.  Though only a freshman, Rawal has big plans for his upcoming years at UT. "I would really like to become an executive officer," Rawal says. "That's the long-term goal. I want to help impact the University in ways regarding academics." Rawal has had the opportunity to work on the passing of the new University honor code. He is grateful for the experience because it gave him insight into how legal documents are written and organized. "I'm considering law school, so I figured any experience I can get now, as an undergraduate, would help me understand what that future could look like," Rawal says. As a Middle Eastern studies major, Rawal hopes that his time with the Liberal Arts Council will help prepare him for the future. "I'm really interested in foreign policy," he says. "By majoring in Middle Eastern studies, I'll have enough knowledge of the cultures and the traditions of that region of the world to help craft policy that will take those into account." Rawal says that he is incredibly grateful to be a Forty Acres Scholar. "To be a scholar," he says, "is really the best. I feel like it is the most incredible opportunity here at UT. I'm excited to have the best four years here at UT that I possibly can."

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Forty Acres Scholar Elected to Liberal Arts Council

Arjun Rawal is a first-year Forty Acres Scholar, but he is already making an impact at UT. Rawal was recently elected as a member of the Committee on Academic Affairs for the Liberal Arts Council. As a member of the committee, Rawal will focus on facilitating discussions of academic issues and making sure that those problems become more transparent between the student body and the dean of the College of Liberal Arts. "I really want to use Liberal Arts Council as a medium to implement my change on the University," Rawal says.  Though only a freshman, Rawal has big plans for his upcoming years at UT. "I would really like to become an executive officer," Rawal says. "That's the long-term goal. I want to help impact the University in ways regarding academics." Rawal has had the opportunity to work on the passing of the new University honor code. He is grateful for the experience because it gave him insight into how legal documents are written and organized. "I'm considering law school, so I figured any experience I can get now, as an undergraduate, would help me understand what that future could look like," Rawal says. As a Middle Eastern studies major, Rawal hopes that his time with the Liberal Arts Council will help prepare him for the future. "I'm really interested in foreign policy," he says. "By majoring in Middle Eastern studies, I'll have enough knowledge of the cultures and the traditions of that region of the world to help craft policy that will take those into account." Rawal says that he is incredibly grateful to be a Forty Acres Scholar. "To be a scholar," he says, "is really the best. I feel like it is the most incredible opportunity here at UT. I'm excited to have the best four years here at UT that I possibly can."

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Forty Acres Scholar Elected to Liberal Arts Council

Arjun Rawal is a first-year Forty Acres Scholar, but he is already making an impact at UT. Rawal was recently elected as a member of the Committee on Academic Affairs for the Liberal Arts Council. As a member of the committee, Rawal will focus on facilitating discussions of academic issues and making sure that those problems become more transparent between the student body and the dean of the College of Liberal Arts. "I really want to use Liberal Arts Council as a medium to implement my change on the University," Rawal says.  Though only a freshman, Rawal has big plans for his upcoming years at UT. "I would really like to become an executive officer," Rawal says. "That's the long-term goal. I want to help impact the University in ways regarding academics." Rawal has had the opportunity to work on the passing of the new University honor code. He is grateful for the experience because it gave him insight into how legal documents are written and organized. "I'm considering law school, so I figured any experience I can get now, as an undergraduate, would help me understand what that future could look like," Rawal says. As a Middle Eastern studies major, Rawal hopes that his time with the Liberal Arts Council will help prepare him for the future. "I'm really interested in foreign policy," he says. "By majoring in Middle Eastern studies, I'll have enough knowledge of the cultures and the traditions of that region of the world to help craft policy that will take those into account." Rawal says that he is incredibly grateful to be a Forty Acres Scholar. "To be a scholar," he says, "is really the best. I feel like it is the most incredible opportunity here at UT. I'm excited to have the best four years here at UT that I possibly can."

Finding a Family: The Asian Alumni Network Scholarship

Rose Cahalan
Asian Family at UT

When the Asian Alumni Network awarded its first-ever scholarship to Elie Wu, they boosted a future leader who’s overcome some serious financial and family challenges. Read her story—and the story of the network's first-ever scholarship—on the Alcalde. Photo courtesy the Austin History Center

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Finding a Family: The Asian Alumni Network Scholarship

When the Asian Alumni Network awarded its first-ever scholarship to Elie Wu, they boosted a future leader who’s overcome some serious financial and family challenges. Read her story—and the story of the network's first-ever scholarship—on the Alcalde. Photo courtesy the Austin History Center

Box List 1 - Teaser

Finding a Family: The Asian Alumni Network Scholarship

When the Asian Alumni Network awarded its first-ever scholarship to Elie Wu, they boosted a future leader who’s overcome some serious financial and family challenges. Read her story—and the story of the network's first-ever scholarship—on the Alcalde. Photo courtesy the Austin History Center

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Finding a Family: The Asian Alumni Network Scholarship

When the Asian Alumni Network awarded its first-ever scholarship to Elie Wu, they boosted a future leader who’s overcome some serious financial and family challenges. Read her story—and the story of the network's first-ever scholarship—on the Alcalde. Photo courtesy the Austin History Center

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Finding a Family: The Asian Alumni Network Scholarship

When the Asian Alumni Network awarded its first-ever scholarship to Elie Wu, they boosted a future leader who’s overcome some serious financial and family challenges. Read her story—and the story of the network's first-ever scholarship—on the Alcalde. Photo courtesy the Austin History Center

Texas Exes Scholar Alexandra Atalis Prizes Perseverance

Bianca Moragne
Alexandra Atalis

At age 6, Alexandra Atalis knew she wanted to pursue a top college education. Through expectations from her endearing yaya (Greek for grandmother) Atalis studied hard and always strived for the best. This attitude landed her at one of the best universities in the nation: The University of Texas at Austin.

She is a leader in the Delta Delta Delta sorority, which she credits with helping her develop administrative skills. When’s she’s not taking classes for her major (biomedical engineering), Atalis enjoys courses in history and English, subjects she says were a struggle for her in high school. Supportive professors make all the difference, she says.

But her most memorable academic experience came far from the Forty Acres. At one of the most famous scientific sites in the world, Atalis took part in a hands-on study abroad program in Cambridge, England. There, she took a biomedical transport class and had the experience of a lifetime exploring the city.

Atalis, the recipient of the Mrs. Harold B. Myers Texas Exes Scholarship, says her science research experience has not only enriched her academic skills—it’s taught her the meaning of perseverance.

One week before being accepted to work in the biophotonic lab of James Tunnell, Atalis learned that her mother had ovarian cancer. Working in the lab under the tragic circumstances helped her cope. Atalis learned to juggle multiple experiments under great pressure; waiting for the right answer taught her patience. In the lab, Atalis studies an alternative form of chemotherapy with early cancer treatment and detection.

This TEA scholar has learned to stay humble and enjoy the challenges that the University provides.

“I’ve definitely been humbled being here, surrounded by the best and brightest students,” Atalis says. “It’s very challenging here at UT, but being surrounded by such talented students keeps me motivated.”

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Texas Exes Scholar Alexandra Atalis Prizes Perseverance

At age 6, Alexandra Atalis knew she wanted to pursue a top college education. Through expectations from her endearing yaya (Greek for grandmother) Atalis studied hard and always strived for the best. This attitude landed her at one of the best universities in the nation: The University of Texas at Austin. She is a leader in the Delta Delta Delta sorority, which she credits with helping her develop administrative skills. When’s she’s not taking classes for her major (biomedical engineering), Atalis enjoys courses in history and English, subjects she says were a struggle for her in high school. Supportive professors make all the difference, she says. But her most memorable academic experience came far from the Forty Acres. At one of the most famous scientific sites in the world, Atalis took part in a hands-on study abroad program in Cambridge, England. There, she took a biomedical transport class and had the experience of a lifetime exploring the city. Atalis, the recipient of the Mrs. Harold B. Myers Texas Exes Scholarship, says her science research experience has not only enriched her academic skills—it’s taught her the meaning of perseverance. One week before being accepted to work in the biophotonic lab of James Tunnell, Atalis learned that her mother had ovarian cancer. Working in the lab under the tragic circumstances helped her cope. Atalis learned to juggle multiple experiments under great pressure; waiting for the right answer taught her patience. In the lab, Atalis studies an alternative form of chemotherapy with early cancer treatment and detection. This TEA scholar has learned to stay humble and enjoy the challenges that the University provides. “I’ve definitely been humbled being here, surrounded by the best and brightest students,” Atalis says. “It’s very challenging here at UT, but being surrounded by such talented students keeps me motivated.”

Box List 1 - Teaser

Texas Exes Scholar Alexandra Atalis Prizes Perseverance

At age 6, Alexandra Atalis knew she wanted to pursue a top college education. Through expectations from her endearing yaya (Greek for grandmother) Atalis studied hard and always strived for the best. This attitude landed her at one of the best universities in the nation: The University of Texas at Austin. She is a leader in the Delta Delta Delta sorority, which she credits with helping her develop administrative skills. When’s she’s not taking classes for her major (biomedical engineering), Atalis enjoys courses in history and English, subjects she says were a struggle for her in high school. Supportive professors make all the difference, she says. But her most memorable academic experience came far from the Forty Acres. At one of the most famous scientific sites in the world, Atalis took part in a hands-on study abroad program in Cambridge, England. There, she took a biomedical transport class and had the experience of a lifetime exploring the city. Atalis, the recipient of the Mrs. Harold B. Myers Texas Exes Scholarship, says her science research experience has not only enriched her academic skills—it’s taught her the meaning of perseverance. One week before being accepted to work in the biophotonic lab of James Tunnell, Atalis learned that her mother had ovarian cancer. Working in the lab under the tragic circumstances helped her cope. Atalis learned to juggle multiple experiments under great pressure; waiting for the right answer taught her patience. In the lab, Atalis studies an alternative form of chemotherapy with early cancer treatment and detection. This TEA scholar has learned to stay humble and enjoy the challenges that the University provides. “I’ve definitely been humbled being here, surrounded by the best and brightest students,” Atalis says. “It’s very challenging here at UT, but being surrounded by such talented students keeps me motivated.”

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Texas Exes Scholar Alexandra Atalis Prizes Perseverance

At age 6, Alexandra Atalis knew she wanted to pursue a top college education. Through expectations from her endearing yaya (Greek for grandmother) Atalis studied hard and always strived for the best. This attitude landed her at one of the best universities in the nation: The University of Texas at Austin. She is a leader in the Delta Delta Delta sorority, which she credits with helping her develop administrative skills. When’s she’s not taking classes for her major (biomedical engineering), Atalis enjoys courses in history and English, subjects she says were a struggle for her in high school. Supportive professors make all the difference, she says. But her most memorable academic experience came far from the Forty Acres. At one of the most famous scientific sites in the world, Atalis took part in a hands-on study abroad program in Cambridge, England. There, she took a biomedical transport class and had the experience of a lifetime exploring the city. Atalis, the recipient of the Mrs. Harold B. Myers Texas Exes Scholarship, says her science research experience has not only enriched her academic skills—it’s taught her the meaning of perseverance. One week before being accepted to work in the biophotonic lab of James Tunnell, Atalis learned that her mother had ovarian cancer. Working in the lab under the tragic circumstances helped her cope. Atalis learned to juggle multiple experiments under great pressure; waiting for the right answer taught her patience. In the lab, Atalis studies an alternative form of chemotherapy with early cancer treatment and detection. This TEA scholar has learned to stay humble and enjoy the challenges that the University provides. “I’ve definitely been humbled being here, surrounded by the best and brightest students,” Atalis says. “It’s very challenging here at UT, but being surrounded by such talented students keeps me motivated.”

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Texas Exes Scholar Alexandra Atalis Prizes Perseverance

At age 6, Alexandra Atalis knew she wanted to pursue a top college education. Through expectations from her endearing yaya (Greek for grandmother) Atalis studied hard and always strived for the best. This attitude landed her at one of the best universities in the nation: The University of Texas at Austin. She is a leader in the Delta Delta Delta sorority, which she credits with helping her develop administrative skills. When’s she’s not taking classes for her major (biomedical engineering), Atalis enjoys courses in history and English, subjects she says were a struggle for her in high school. Supportive professors make all the difference, she says. But her most memorable academic experience came far from the Forty Acres. At one of the most famous scientific sites in the world, Atalis took part in a hands-on study abroad program in Cambridge, England. There, she took a biomedical transport class and had the experience of a lifetime exploring the city. Atalis, the recipient of the Mrs. Harold B. Myers Texas Exes Scholarship, says her science research experience has not only enriched her academic skills—it’s taught her the meaning of perseverance. One week before being accepted to work in the biophotonic lab of James Tunnell, Atalis learned that her mother had ovarian cancer. Working in the lab under the tragic circumstances helped her cope. Atalis learned to juggle multiple experiments under great pressure; waiting for the right answer taught her patience. In the lab, Atalis studies an alternative form of chemotherapy with early cancer treatment and detection. This TEA scholar has learned to stay humble and enjoy the challenges that the University provides. “I’ve definitely been humbled being here, surrounded by the best and brightest students,” Atalis says. “It’s very challenging here at UT, but being surrounded by such talented students keeps me motivated.”

Black Alumni Network Endows John S. Chase Legacy Scholarship

Dorothy Harrigan

 

John Saunders Chase, MAr ’52, Life Member, Distinguished Alumnus, knew he wanted to be an architect from a very early age. His wife, Drucie Rucker Chase, says that his earliest design—when he was just nine years old—was a tombstone for his grandmother’s grave.

America in the 1950s and 1960s was a tough place for a young black man with dreams of a career in architecture, but Chase managed to break down the racial barriers he encountered one by one.

After a decorated career in the United States Army, where he served in the Philippine Islands during World War II, he was the first African American to enroll in UT’s School of Architecture, graduating in 1952.

He went on to become the first African American granted a license to practice architecture in the state of Texas and the first to be admitted into the Texas Society of Architects and the Houston Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). Most notably, he was the first African American to serve on the United States Commission on Fine Arts, appointed to that position by President Carter in 1980. His work on that commission helped lead to the creation of the Vietnam War Memorial.

Chase’s buildings now dot the globe, from the United States Embassy in Tunis, Tunisia, to the Delta Sigma Theta National Headquarters, to several buildings on the campus of Texas Southern University (Sterling Student Life Center, the Thurgood Marshall School of Law, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. School).

Chase passed away at age 87 on March 29. To celebrate his exceptional achievements and his pioneering determination, the Texas Exes Black Alumni Network has established the John S. Chase Legacy scholarship. The scholarship supports entering African-American freshmen who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership abilities, and financial need. Students with majors in the School of Architecture, the School of Engineering, the College of Natural Sciences, or the College of Education are given special consideration.

The honor is especially fitting because the Texas Exes was home to yet another of Chase’s many firsts: He was the first African American to serve as president of the organization.

John and Drucie Chase were married for 61 years and had three children and five grandchildren. “The scholarship would mean a lot to him. It’s showing that he was a trailblazer and he opened a lot of doors—they’re paying tribute to him,” Drucie says. “I hope it will help another student be able to accomplish his dream.”

The John S. Chase Legacy Scholarship will be officially announced on Friday, Nov. 9, during the 4th-Annual Black Homecoming Weekend’s Legacy Dinner, which is sponsored by the Texas Exes Black Alumni Steering Committee. Scheduled for November 9-11, the weekend is an opportunity for black alums to enjoy a fun-filled trip back to the Forty Acres, connect with fellow black alumni, and support current students. All proceeds from the Legacy Dinner will go towards the Black Alumni Network John S. Chase Legacy scholarship fund.

Register for the weekend or learn more on the Texas Exes website.

Photo: Chase in 1996.

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John Saunders Chase

Black Alumni Network Endows John S. Chase Legacy Scholarship

  John Saunders Chase, MAr ’52, Life Member, Distinguished Alumnus, knew he wanted to be an architect from a very early age. His wife, Drucie Rucker Chase, says that his earliest design—when he was just nine years old—was a tombstone for his grandmother’s grave. America in the 1950s and 1960s was a tough place for a young black man with dreams of a career in architecture, but Chase managed to break down the racial barriers he encountered one by one. After a decorated career in the United States Army, where he served in the Philippine Islands during World War II, he was the first African American to enroll in UT’s School of Architecture, graduating in 1952. He went on to become the first African American granted a license to practice architecture in the state of Texas and the first to be admitted into the Texas Society of Architects and the Houston Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). Most notably, he was the first African American to serve on the United States Commission on Fine Arts, appointed to that position by President Carter in 1980. His work on that commission helped lead to the creation of the Vietnam War Memorial. Chase’s buildings now dot the globe, from the United States Embassy in Tunis, Tunisia, to the Delta Sigma Theta National Headquarters, to several buildings on the campus of Texas Southern University (Sterling Student Life Center, the Thurgood Marshall School of Law, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. School). Chase passed away at age 87 on March 29. To celebrate his exceptional achievements and his pioneering determination, the Texas Exes Black Alumni Network has established the John S. Chase Legacy scholarship. The scholarship supports entering African-American freshmen who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership abilities, and financial need. Students with majors in the School of Architecture, the School of Engineering, the College of Natural Sciences, or the College of Education are given special consideration. The honor is especially fitting because the Texas Exes was home to yet another of Chase’s many firsts: He was the first African American to serve as president of the organization. John and Drucie Chase were married for 61 years and had three children and five grandchildren. “The scholarship would mean a lot to him. It’s showing that he was a trailblazer and he opened a lot of doors—they’re paying tribute to him,” Drucie says. “I hope it will help another student be able to accomplish his dream.” The John S. Chase Legacy Scholarship will be officially announced on Friday, Nov. 9, during the 4th-Annual Black Homecoming Weekend’s Legacy Dinner, which is sponsored by the Texas Exes Black Alumni Steering Committee. Scheduled for November 9-11, the weekend is an opportunity for black alums to enjoy a fun-filled trip back to the Forty Acres, connect with fellow black alumni, and support current students. All proceeds from the Legacy Dinner will go towards the Black Alumni Network John S. Chase Legacy scholarship fund. Register for the weekend or learn more on the Texas Exes website. Photo: Chase in 1996.

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John Saunders Chase

Black Alumni Network Endows John S. Chase Legacy Scholarship

  John Saunders Chase, MAr ’52, Life Member, Distinguished Alumnus, knew he wanted to be an architect from a very early age. His wife, Drucie Rucker Chase, says that his earliest design—when he was just nine years old—was a tombstone for his grandmother’s grave. America in the 1950s and 1960s was a tough place for a young black man with dreams of a career in architecture, but Chase managed to break down the racial barriers he encountered one by one. After a decorated career in the United States Army, where he served in the Philippine Islands during World War II, he was the first African American to enroll in UT’s School of Architecture, graduating in 1952. He went on to become the first African American granted a license to practice architecture in the state of Texas and the first to be admitted into the Texas Society of Architects and the Houston Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). Most notably, he was the first African American to serve on the United States Commission on Fine Arts, appointed to that position by President Carter in 1980. His work on that commission helped lead to the creation of the Vietnam War Memorial. Chase’s buildings now dot the globe, from the United States Embassy in Tunis, Tunisia, to the Delta Sigma Theta National Headquarters, to several buildings on the campus of Texas Southern University (Sterling Student Life Center, the Thurgood Marshall School of Law, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. School). Chase passed away at age 87 on March 29. To celebrate his exceptional achievements and his pioneering determination, the Texas Exes Black Alumni Network has established the John S. Chase Legacy scholarship. The scholarship supports entering African-American freshmen who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership abilities, and financial need. Students with majors in the School of Architecture, the School of Engineering, the College of Natural Sciences, or the College of Education are given special consideration. The honor is especially fitting because the Texas Exes was home to yet another of Chase’s many firsts: He was the first African American to serve as president of the organization. John and Drucie Chase were married for 61 years and had three children and five grandchildren. “The scholarship would mean a lot to him. It’s showing that he was a trailblazer and he opened a lot of doors—they’re paying tribute to him,” Drucie says. “I hope it will help another student be able to accomplish his dream.” The John S. Chase Legacy Scholarship will be officially announced on Friday, Nov. 9, during the 4th-Annual Black Homecoming Weekend’s Legacy Dinner, which is sponsored by the Texas Exes Black Alumni Steering Committee. Scheduled for November 9-11, the weekend is an opportunity for black alums to enjoy a fun-filled trip back to the Forty Acres, connect with fellow black alumni, and support current students. All proceeds from the Legacy Dinner will go towards the Black Alumni Network John S. Chase Legacy scholarship fund. Register for the weekend or learn more on the Texas Exes website. Photo: Chase in 1996.

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John Saunders Chase

Black Alumni Network Endows John S. Chase Legacy Scholarship

  John Saunders Chase, MAr ’52, Life Member, Distinguished Alumnus, knew he wanted to be an architect from a very early age. His wife, Drucie Rucker Chase, says that his earliest design—when he was just nine years old—was a tombstone for his grandmother’s grave. America in the 1950s and 1960s was a tough place for a young black man with dreams of a career in architecture, but Chase managed to break down the racial barriers he encountered one by one. After a decorated career in the United States Army, where he served in the Philippine Islands during World War II, he was the first African American to enroll in UT’s School of Architecture, graduating in 1952. He went on to become the first African American granted a license to practice architecture in the state of Texas and the first to be admitted into the Texas Society of Architects and the Houston Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). Most notably, he was the first African American to serve on the United States Commission on Fine Arts, appointed to that position by President Carter in 1980. His work on that commission helped lead to the creation of the Vietnam War Memorial. Chase’s buildings now dot the globe, from the United States Embassy in Tunis, Tunisia, to the Delta Sigma Theta National Headquarters, to several buildings on the campus of Texas Southern University (Sterling Student Life Center, the Thurgood Marshall School of Law, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. School). Chase passed away at age 87 on March 29. To celebrate his exceptional achievements and his pioneering determination, the Texas Exes Black Alumni Network has established the John S. Chase Legacy scholarship. The scholarship supports entering African-American freshmen who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership abilities, and financial need. Students with majors in the School of Architecture, the School of Engineering, the College of Natural Sciences, or the College of Education are given special consideration. The honor is especially fitting because the Texas Exes was home to yet another of Chase’s many firsts: He was the first African American to serve as president of the organization. John and Drucie Chase were married for 61 years and had three children and five grandchildren. “The scholarship would mean a lot to him. It’s showing that he was a trailblazer and he opened a lot of doors—they’re paying tribute to him,” Drucie says. “I hope it will help another student be able to accomplish his dream.” The John S. Chase Legacy Scholarship will be officially announced on Friday, Nov. 9, during the 4th-Annual Black Homecoming Weekend’s Legacy Dinner, which is sponsored by the Texas Exes Black Alumni Steering Committee. Scheduled for November 9-11, the weekend is an opportunity for black alums to enjoy a fun-filled trip back to the Forty Acres, connect with fellow black alumni, and support current students. All proceeds from the Legacy Dinner will go towards the Black Alumni Network John S. Chase Legacy scholarship fund. Register for the weekend or learn more on the Texas Exes website. Photo: Chase in 1996.

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John Saunders Chase

Black Alumni Network Endows John S. Chase Legacy Scholarship

  John Saunders Chase, MAr ’52, Life Member, Distinguished Alumnus, knew he wanted to be an architect from a very early age. His wife, Drucie Rucker Chase, says that his earliest design—when he was just nine years old—was a tombstone for his grandmother’s grave. America in the 1950s and 1960s was a tough place for a young black man with dreams of a career in architecture, but Chase managed to break down the racial barriers he encountered one by one. After a decorated career in the United States Army, where he served in the Philippine Islands during World War II, he was the first African American to enroll in UT’s School of Architecture, graduating in 1952. He went on to become the first African American granted a license to practice architecture in the state of Texas and the first to be admitted into the Texas Society of Architects and the Houston Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). Most notably, he was the first African American to serve on the United States Commission on Fine Arts, appointed to that position by President Carter in 1980. His work on that commission helped lead to the creation of the Vietnam War Memorial. Chase’s buildings now dot the globe, from the United States Embassy in Tunis, Tunisia, to the Delta Sigma Theta National Headquarters, to several buildings on the campus of Texas Southern University (Sterling Student Life Center, the Thurgood Marshall School of Law, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. School). Chase passed away at age 87 on March 29. To celebrate his exceptional achievements and his pioneering determination, the Texas Exes Black Alumni Network has established the John S. Chase Legacy scholarship. The scholarship supports entering African-American freshmen who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership abilities, and financial need. Students with majors in the School of Architecture, the School of Engineering, the College of Natural Sciences, or the College of Education are given special consideration. The honor is especially fitting because the Texas Exes was home to yet another of Chase’s many firsts: He was the first African American to serve as president of the organization. John and Drucie Chase were married for 61 years and had three children and five grandchildren. “The scholarship would mean a lot to him. It’s showing that he was a trailblazer and he opened a lot of doors—they’re paying tribute to him,” Drucie says. “I hope it will help another student be able to accomplish his dream.” The John S. Chase Legacy Scholarship will be officially announced on Friday, Nov. 9, during the 4th-Annual Black Homecoming Weekend’s Legacy Dinner, which is sponsored by the Texas Exes Black Alumni Steering Committee. Scheduled for November 9-11, the weekend is an opportunity for black alums to enjoy a fun-filled trip back to the Forty Acres, connect with fellow black alumni, and support current students. All proceeds from the Legacy Dinner will go towards the Black Alumni Network John S. Chase Legacy scholarship fund. Register for the weekend or learn more on the Texas Exes website. Photo: Chase in 1996.

Scholarship Honoring Senator Judith Zaffirini Endowed by Son

Andrew Roush

It felt more like a family reunion than a formal endowment. Even surrounded by austere quotes of past University luminaries and the gilded seals of the Main Building's Lee Hage Jamail Academic Room, it felt like a homecoming.

Prominent members of The University of Texas community—from administrators to Texas Exes and students—gathered at the Tower on Tuesday to commemorate the endowment of the Senator Judith Zaffirini Scholarship by her son, Carlos Zaffirini Jr., BBA '03, JD '06, Life Member.

“Carlos, you know how much we love you,” said UT System chancellor Francisco Cigarroa, adding to personal and emotional praise from Texas Exes president John Beckworth and UT president Bill Powers.

Powers commended the Texas Exes for its rich history of providing scholarships to deserving students, Judith for her fiery spirit and unrivaled defense of the University, and Carlos Jr. for his gift, which Powers called "an expression of love."

Beckworth described Judith, BS '67, MA '70, PhD '78, Life Member, as a champion, friend, and advocate. To put the scholarship—which will help make college affordable for students in South Texas’ Webb, Starr, and Zapata counties—into context, Laredo native Cigarroa told the story of Peter, the most gifted student in his graduating high school class who couldn’t attend college because of cost.

Carlos Jr. is the founder of Adelanto HealthCare Ventures in Austin. He earned a BBA and JD from UT, but he’s still one short of his mother’s three UT degrees.

Carlos spoke of his mother's exceptional work ethic while attending the University, where she maintained a 3.9 GPA even as she considered dropping out because she could no longer afford to attend. She was lucky to be helped by a family friend, Carlos said, calling the prospect of a talented student not graduating because of cost unacceptable.

At just 30 years old, Carlos is endowing the scholarship in his mother’s name to make a college education accessible to capable students from the Rio Grande Valley. He intends to keep giving, and he encourages other young Texas Exes to give back as well.

“I’m impressed and grateful,” Judith said in her remarks. And even though the room was packed, it was clear she was talking to only one person. 

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Senator Judith Zaffirini Scholarship Endowed by Son

Scholarship Honoring Senator Judith Zaffirini Endowed by Son

It felt more like a family reunion than a formal endowment. Even surrounded by austere quotes of past University luminaries and the gilded seals of the Main Building's Lee Hage Jamail Academic Room, it felt like a homecoming. Prominent members of The University of Texas community—from administrators to Texas Exes and students—gathered at the Tower on Tuesday to commemorate the endowment of the Senator Judith Zaffirini Scholarship by her son, Carlos Zaffirini Jr., BBA '03, JD '06, Life Member. “Carlos, you know how much we love you,” said UT System chancellor Francisco Cigarroa, adding to personal and emotional praise from Texas Exes president John Beckworth and UT president Bill Powers. Powers commended the Texas Exes for its rich history of providing scholarships to deserving students, Judith for her fiery spirit and unrivaled defense of the University, and Carlos Jr. for his gift, which Powers called "an expression of love." Beckworth described Judith, BS '67, MA '70, PhD '78, Life Member, as a champion, friend, and advocate. To put the scholarship—which will help make college affordable for students in South Texas’ Webb, Starr, and Zapata counties—into context, Laredo native Cigarroa told the story of Peter, the most gifted student in his graduating high school class who couldn’t attend college because of cost. Carlos Jr. is the founder of Adelanto HealthCare Ventures in Austin. He earned a BBA and JD from UT, but he’s still one short of his mother’s three UT degrees. Carlos spoke of his mother's exceptional work ethic while attending the University, where she maintained a 3.9 GPA even as she considered dropping out because she could no longer afford to attend. She was lucky to be helped by a family friend, Carlos said, calling the prospect of a talented student not graduating because of cost unacceptable. At just 30 years old, Carlos is endowing the scholarship in his mother’s name to make a college education accessible to capable students from the Rio Grande Valley. He intends to keep giving, and he encourages other young Texas Exes to give back as well. “I’m impressed and grateful,” Judith said in her remarks. And even though the room was packed, it was clear she was talking to only one person. 

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Senator Judith Zaffirini Scholarship Endowed by Son

Scholarship Honoring Senator Judith Zaffirini Endowed by Son

It felt more like a family reunion than a formal endowment. Even surrounded by austere quotes of past University luminaries and the gilded seals of the Main Building's Lee Hage Jamail Academic Room, it felt like a homecoming. Prominent members of The University of Texas community—from administrators to Texas Exes and students—gathered at the Tower on Tuesday to commemorate the endowment of the Senator Judith Zaffirini Scholarship by her son, Carlos Zaffirini Jr., BBA '03, JD '06, Life Member. “Carlos, you know how much we love you,” said UT System chancellor Francisco Cigarroa, adding to personal and emotional praise from Texas Exes president John Beckworth and UT president Bill Powers. Powers commended the Texas Exes for its rich history of providing scholarships to deserving students, Judith for her fiery spirit and unrivaled defense of the University, and Carlos Jr. for his gift, which Powers called "an expression of love." Beckworth described Judith, BS '67, MA '70, PhD '78, Life Member, as a champion, friend, and advocate. To put the scholarship—which will help make college affordable for students in South Texas’ Webb, Starr, and Zapata counties—into context, Laredo native Cigarroa told the story of Peter, the most gifted student in his graduating high school class who couldn’t attend college because of cost. Carlos Jr. is the founder of Adelanto HealthCare Ventures in Austin. He earned a BBA and JD from UT, but he’s still one short of his mother’s three UT degrees. Carlos spoke of his mother's exceptional work ethic while attending the University, where she maintained a 3.9 GPA even as she considered dropping out because she could no longer afford to attend. She was lucky to be helped by a family friend, Carlos said, calling the prospect of a talented student not graduating because of cost unacceptable. At just 30 years old, Carlos is endowing the scholarship in his mother’s name to make a college education accessible to capable students from the Rio Grande Valley. He intends to keep giving, and he encourages other young Texas Exes to give back as well. “I’m impressed and grateful,” Judith said in her remarks. And even though the room was packed, it was clear she was talking to only one person. 

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Senator Judith Zaffirini Scholarship Endowed by Son

Scholarship Honoring Senator Judith Zaffirini Endowed by Son

It felt more like a family reunion than a formal endowment. Even surrounded by austere quotes of past University luminaries and the gilded seals of the Main Building's Lee Hage Jamail Academic Room, it felt like a homecoming. Prominent members of The University of Texas community—from administrators to Texas Exes and students—gathered at the Tower on Tuesday to commemorate the endowment of the Senator Judith Zaffirini Scholarship by her son, Carlos Zaffirini Jr., BBA '03, JD '06, Life Member. “Carlos, you know how much we love you,” said UT System chancellor Francisco Cigarroa, adding to personal and emotional praise from Texas Exes president John Beckworth and UT president Bill Powers. Powers commended the Texas Exes for its rich history of providing scholarships to deserving students, Judith for her fiery spirit and unrivaled defense of the University, and Carlos Jr. for his gift, which Powers called "an expression of love." Beckworth described Judith, BS '67, MA '70, PhD '78, Life Member, as a champion, friend, and advocate. To put the scholarship—which will help make college affordable for students in South Texas’ Webb, Starr, and Zapata counties—into context, Laredo native Cigarroa told the story of Peter, the most gifted student in his graduating high school class who couldn’t attend college because of cost. Carlos Jr. is the founder of Adelanto HealthCare Ventures in Austin. He earned a BBA and JD from UT, but he’s still one short of his mother’s three UT degrees. Carlos spoke of his mother's exceptional work ethic while attending the University, where she maintained a 3.9 GPA even as she considered dropping out because she could no longer afford to attend. She was lucky to be helped by a family friend, Carlos said, calling the prospect of a talented student not graduating because of cost unacceptable. At just 30 years old, Carlos is endowing the scholarship in his mother’s name to make a college education accessible to capable students from the Rio Grande Valley. He intends to keep giving, and he encourages other young Texas Exes to give back as well. “I’m impressed and grateful,” Judith said in her remarks. And even though the room was packed, it was clear she was talking to only one person. 

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Senator Judith Zaffirini Scholarship Endowed by Son

Scholarship Honoring Senator Judith Zaffirini Endowed by Son

It felt more like a family reunion than a formal endowment. Even surrounded by austere quotes of past University luminaries and the gilded seals of the Main Building's Lee Hage Jamail Academic Room, it felt like a homecoming. Prominent members of The University of Texas community—from administrators to Texas Exes and students—gathered at the Tower on Tuesday to commemorate the endowment of the Senator Judith Zaffirini Scholarship by her son, Carlos Zaffirini Jr., BBA '03, JD '06, Life Member. “Carlos, you know how much we love you,” said UT System chancellor Francisco Cigarroa, adding to personal and emotional praise from Texas Exes president John Beckworth and UT president Bill Powers. Powers commended the Texas Exes for its rich history of providing scholarships to deserving students, Judith for her fiery spirit and unrivaled defense of the University, and Carlos Jr. for his gift, which Powers called "an expression of love." Beckworth described Judith, BS '67, MA '70, PhD '78, Life Member, as a champion, friend, and advocate. To put the scholarship—which will help make college affordable for students in South Texas’ Webb, Starr, and Zapata counties—into context, Laredo native Cigarroa told the story of Peter, the most gifted student in his graduating high school class who couldn’t attend college because of cost. Carlos Jr. is the founder of Adelanto HealthCare Ventures in Austin. He earned a BBA and JD from UT, but he’s still one short of his mother’s three UT degrees. Carlos spoke of his mother's exceptional work ethic while attending the University, where she maintained a 3.9 GPA even as she considered dropping out because she could no longer afford to attend. She was lucky to be helped by a family friend, Carlos said, calling the prospect of a talented student not graduating because of cost unacceptable. At just 30 years old, Carlos is endowing the scholarship in his mother’s name to make a college education accessible to capable students from the Rio Grande Valley. He intends to keep giving, and he encourages other young Texas Exes to give back as well. “I’m impressed and grateful,” Judith said in her remarks. And even though the room was packed, it was clear she was talking to only one person. 

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