'We're Expecting Great Things From You': Named Scholarship Recipient Thanks Donors

Mark Mikhaeil is a UT senior studying mechanical engineering and the recipient of the Beverly R. and Jack P. Randall Family Challenge Grant. Mikhaeil was a featured speaker at this year's Texas Exes Named Scholarships Dinner, which was held last week at the Etter-Harbin Alumni Center. The following is a transcript of his remarks. On behalf of all the students here tonight, I want to thank all of the donors who took the time to come tonight and build a connection with their scholarship recipients. I also want to extend that thank you to the Texas Exes—and especially to the scholarships organization—not just because they’re feeding me the best dinner I’ve had in two weeks, but because they’ve given me and the other students present today the opportunity to meet people who care enough about our education that they have invested their own livelihood into it. Tiffany Gonzales, the scholarships coordinator for the Texas Exes, asked me to speak briefly tonight about my experience and the impact the scholarship has had on my education. That includes my relationship with my donors, Mr. Jack and Mrs. Beverly Randall, who are honestly the reason why I have succeeded here at the University. I’m a native Texan. I was born and raised in Houston. My mother and father were both Egyptians, and they both went to university there. My father studied engineering, and my mother studied pharmacy. When I decided to major in mechanical engineering, my mom said, “I guess I lost the battle." Four years later, when my younger brother also wanted to do engineering, my dad told her, “I guess you lost the war." When I was considering universities, I knew that UT would give me the most prestigious education that I could receive. It was my first choice by a large margin. Besides the quality of education here, I was smitten by the beauty of the campus and the Austin lifestyle. My parents, however, were not so infatuated. They were actually convinced that I should go to Texas A&M. From their perspective, they couldn’t understand why they should pay more for tuition and cost of living at UT when they could pay less for a similar quality education elsewhere. At the time, Texas A&M was also giving me a very large scholarship opportunity, and I could see their reasoning—so I bit my tongue and agreed with them. I didn’t want to burden them or myself with student loans. We decided that, unless I could find a way to ease the financial yoke, I would take the offer from Texas A&M. I will never forget the afternoon I received the email from the Texas Exes saying I had been awarded the scholarship. I had been playing chess and other board games with my friends that day. I’m sure I must have seemed like an idiot, because no matter how badly I was losing, I had this massive grin on my face. I knew that scholarship would be my saving grace. It was the golden ticket that allowed me to go to The University of Texas without the fear of burdening my family financially. [pullquote]The Randalls had strong faith—almost conviction—in my success, and that gave me untold confidence. They reminded me that I had already come so far in being accepted to the engineering program at UT.[/pullquote] When I actually arrived at UT, I was greeted by a different worry. I felt the way I’m sure most of the freshmen here are feeling today, and I can sum up that feeling in a single word: lost. My classes were challenging, and my colleagues were competitive. There were job fairs, internships, and research and leadership opportunities. A lot of people were trying to reach the same goals, and I was terrified that I would just be another face in the crowd. That terror was shattered when I came to the Named Scholarship Dinner my freshman year and met Mr. and Mrs. Randall. That night, they gave me a gift that I value much more than any donation: this tie. After that dinner, the Randalls handed me this burnt-orange tie, folded in a burnt-orange gift box, and told me, "We’re expecting great things from you." That dinner three years ago in this very hall changed my attitude towards myself and my purpose here at the University, and this tie is the emblem of that new mindset. The Randalls had strong faith—almost conviction—in my success, and that gave me untold confidence. They reminded me that I had already come so far in being accepted to the engineering program at UT. They were completely confident that I would triumph, and their assuredness gave me the ability to stride through my classes with aplomb. Not only did their confidence rub off on me, but they imparted to me a strong expectation for excellence. I knew that I wasn’t obligated to their generosity. If I wanted them to stay committed to my success at UT, I would have to be equally committed to meeting their expectations. I struggled, and I fought, knowing that I had the hopes of the Randalls behind me. These two pillars—confidence and responsibility—given to me by my donors are what I’ve built my success upon. This tie is my reminder of those two principles. I’ve worn it to every job interview, every first day of an internship, and every poster presentation (including the ones I give at A&M). On the days it doesn’t fit the dress code, I stash it in a coat pocket. Every time I wear it, I remember that I represent the hopes of the Randalls, my family, and this great University. If I’m nervous, I tighten up, adjust the tie, and tell myself the words the Randalls told me: “We’re expecting great things from you." The ideas this tie represents are what have built me up. They have allowed me to toil in my internships and research projects. They have inspired me to serve the University through tutoring, grading, and joining service organizations. And they are the same principles that I recommend to every student sitting here today. I want you to look at your donor—if he or she is sitting with you at the table today—and remember your responsibility to that person. We never cease to hear the famous words, “The Eyes of Texas are upon you." They serve as a constant reminder that each student carries the duty of meeting expectations, both inside and outside the classroom. Remember those responsibilities and you will not fail. Also, never forget the faith that your donors have in you. They have extended their generosity to you because they know that you can rise to meet whatever challenge faces you. Let their conviction be your confidence, and hold onto that confidence even in your darkest hours. Upon those two pillars, confidence and responsibility, you will be able to build for yourself whatever it is that you dream of. And your donors, like my own, and like my tie, should serve as an eternal token of those ideas. Above: Mikhaeil speaking at the 2013 Named Scholarship Dinner. Photo by Matt Valentine.

'We're Expecting Great Things From You': Named Scholarship Recipient Thanks Donors

Mark Mikhaeil is a UT senior studying mechanical engineering and the recipient of the Beverly R. and Jack P. Randall Family Challenge Grant. Mikhaeil was a featured speaker at this year's Texas Exes Named Scholarships Dinner, which was held last week at the Etter-Harbin Alumni Center. The following is a transcript of his remarks. On behalf of all the students here tonight, I want to thank all of the donors who took the time to come tonight and build a connection with their scholarship recipients. I also want to extend that thank you to the Texas Exes—and especially to the scholarships organization—not just because they’re feeding me the best dinner I’ve had in two weeks, but because they’ve given me and the other students present today the opportunity to meet people who care enough about our education that they have invested their own livelihood into it. Tiffany Gonzales, the scholarships coordinator for the Texas Exes, asked me to speak briefly tonight about my experience and the impact the scholarship has had on my education. That includes my relationship with my donors, Mr. Jack and Mrs. Beverly Randall, who are honestly the reason why I have succeeded here at the University. I’m a native Texan. I was born and raised in Houston. My mother and father were both Egyptians, and they both went to university there. My father studied engineering, and my mother studied pharmacy. When I decided to major in mechanical engineering, my mom said, “I guess I lost the battle." Four years later, when my younger brother also wanted to do engineering, my dad told her, “I guess you lost the war." When I was considering universities, I knew that UT would give me the most prestigious education that I could receive. It was my first choice by a large margin. Besides the quality of education here, I was smitten by the beauty of the campus and the Austin lifestyle. My parents, however, were not so infatuated. They were actually convinced that I should go to Texas A&M. From their perspective, they couldn’t understand why they should pay more for tuition and cost of living at UT when they could pay less for a similar quality education elsewhere. At the time, Texas A&M was also giving me a very large scholarship opportunity, and I could see their reasoning—so I bit my tongue and agreed with them. I didn’t want to burden them or myself with student loans. We decided that, unless I could find a way to ease the financial yoke, I would take the offer from Texas A&M. I will never forget the afternoon I received the email from the Texas Exes saying I had been awarded the scholarship. I had been playing chess and other board games with my friends that day. I’m sure I must have seemed like an idiot, because no matter how badly I was losing, I had this massive grin on my face. I knew that scholarship would be my saving grace. It was the golden ticket that allowed me to go to The University of Texas without the fear of burdening my family financially. [pullquote]The Randalls had strong faith—almost conviction—in my success, and that gave me untold confidence. They reminded me that I had already come so far in being accepted to the engineering program at UT.[/pullquote] When I actually arrived at UT, I was greeted by a different worry. I felt the way I’m sure most of the freshmen here are feeling today, and I can sum up that feeling in a single word: lost. My classes were challenging, and my colleagues were competitive. There were job fairs, internships, and research and leadership opportunities. A lot of people were trying to reach the same goals, and I was terrified that I would just be another face in the crowd. That terror was shattered when I came to the Named Scholarship Dinner my freshman year and met Mr. and Mrs. Randall. That night, they gave me a gift that I value much more than any donation: this tie. After that dinner, the Randalls handed me this burnt-orange tie, folded in a burnt-orange gift box, and told me, "We’re expecting great things from you." That dinner three years ago in this very hall changed my attitude towards myself and my purpose here at the University, and this tie is the emblem of that new mindset. The Randalls had strong faith—almost conviction—in my success, and that gave me untold confidence. They reminded me that I had already come so far in being accepted to the engineering program at UT. They were completely confident that I would triumph, and their assuredness gave me the ability to stride through my classes with aplomb. Not only did their confidence rub off on me, but they imparted to me a strong expectation for excellence. I knew that I wasn’t obligated to their generosity. If I wanted them to stay committed to my success at UT, I would have to be equally committed to meeting their expectations. I struggled, and I fought, knowing that I had the hopes of the Randalls behind me. These two pillars—confidence and responsibility—given to me by my donors are what I’ve built my success upon. This tie is my reminder of those two principles. I’ve worn it to every job interview, every first day of an internship, and every poster presentation (including the ones I give at A&M). On the days it doesn’t fit the dress code, I stash it in a coat pocket. Every time I wear it, I remember that I represent the hopes of the Randalls, my family, and this great University. If I’m nervous, I tighten up, adjust the tie, and tell myself the words the Randalls told me: “We’re expecting great things from you." The ideas this tie represents are what have built me up. They have allowed me to toil in my internships and research projects. They have inspired me to serve the University through tutoring, grading, and joining service organizations. And they are the same principles that I recommend to every student sitting here today. I want you to look at your donor—if he or she is sitting with you at the table today—and remember your responsibility to that person. We never cease to hear the famous words, “The Eyes of Texas are upon you." They serve as a constant reminder that each student carries the duty of meeting expectations, both inside and outside the classroom. Remember those responsibilities and you will not fail. Also, never forget the faith that your donors have in you. They have extended their generosity to you because they know that you can rise to meet whatever challenge faces you. Let their conviction be your confidence, and hold onto that confidence even in your darkest hours. Upon those two pillars, confidence and responsibility, you will be able to build for yourself whatever it is that you dream of. And your donors, like my own, and like my tie, should serve as an eternal token of those ideas. Above: Mikhaeil speaking at the 2013 Named Scholarship Dinner. Photo by Matt Valentine.

'We're Expecting Great Things From You': Named Scholarship Recipient Thanks Donors

Mark Mikhaeil is a UT senior studying mechanical engineering and the recipient of the Beverly R. and Jack P. Randall Family Challenge Grant. Mikhaeil was a featured speaker at this year's Texas Exes Named Scholarships Dinner, which was held last week at the Etter-Harbin Alumni Center. The following is a transcript of his remarks. On behalf of all the students here tonight, I want to thank all of the donors who took the time to come tonight and build a connection with their scholarship recipients. I also want to extend that thank you to the Texas Exes—and especially to the scholarships organization—not just because they’re feeding me the best dinner I’ve had in two weeks, but because they’ve given me and the other students present today the opportunity to meet people who care enough about our education that they have invested their own livelihood into it. Tiffany Gonzales, the scholarships coordinator for the Texas Exes, asked me to speak briefly tonight about my experience and the impact the scholarship has had on my education. That includes my relationship with my donors, Mr. Jack and Mrs. Beverly Randall, who are honestly the reason why I have succeeded here at the University. I’m a native Texan. I was born and raised in Houston. My mother and father were both Egyptians, and they both went to university there. My father studied engineering, and my mother studied pharmacy. When I decided to major in mechanical engineering, my mom said, “I guess I lost the battle." Four years later, when my younger brother also wanted to do engineering, my dad told her, “I guess you lost the war." When I was considering universities, I knew that UT would give me the most prestigious education that I could receive. It was my first choice by a large margin. Besides the quality of education here, I was smitten by the beauty of the campus and the Austin lifestyle. My parents, however, were not so infatuated. They were actually convinced that I should go to Texas A&M. From their perspective, they couldn’t understand why they should pay more for tuition and cost of living at UT when they could pay less for a similar quality education elsewhere. At the time, Texas A&M was also giving me a very large scholarship opportunity, and I could see their reasoning—so I bit my tongue and agreed with them. I didn’t want to burden them or myself with student loans. We decided that, unless I could find a way to ease the financial yoke, I would take the offer from Texas A&M. I will never forget the afternoon I received the email from the Texas Exes saying I had been awarded the scholarship. I had been playing chess and other board games with my friends that day. I’m sure I must have seemed like an idiot, because no matter how badly I was losing, I had this massive grin on my face. I knew that scholarship would be my saving grace. It was the golden ticket that allowed me to go to The University of Texas without the fear of burdening my family financially. [pullquote]The Randalls had strong faith—almost conviction—in my success, and that gave me untold confidence. They reminded me that I had already come so far in being accepted to the engineering program at UT.[/pullquote] When I actually arrived at UT, I was greeted by a different worry. I felt the way I’m sure most of the freshmen here are feeling today, and I can sum up that feeling in a single word: lost. My classes were challenging, and my colleagues were competitive. There were job fairs, internships, and research and leadership opportunities. A lot of people were trying to reach the same goals, and I was terrified that I would just be another face in the crowd. That terror was shattered when I came to the Named Scholarship Dinner my freshman year and met Mr. and Mrs. Randall. That night, they gave me a gift that I value much more than any donation: this tie. After that dinner, the Randalls handed me this burnt-orange tie, folded in a burnt-orange gift box, and told me, "We’re expecting great things from you." That dinner three years ago in this very hall changed my attitude towards myself and my purpose here at the University, and this tie is the emblem of that new mindset. The Randalls had strong faith—almost conviction—in my success, and that gave me untold confidence. They reminded me that I had already come so far in being accepted to the engineering program at UT. They were completely confident that I would triumph, and their assuredness gave me the ability to stride through my classes with aplomb. Not only did their confidence rub off on me, but they imparted to me a strong expectation for excellence. I knew that I wasn’t obligated to their generosity. If I wanted them to stay committed to my success at UT, I would have to be equally committed to meeting their expectations. I struggled, and I fought, knowing that I had the hopes of the Randalls behind me. These two pillars—confidence and responsibility—given to me by my donors are what I’ve built my success upon. This tie is my reminder of those two principles. I’ve worn it to every job interview, every first day of an internship, and every poster presentation (including the ones I give at A&M). On the days it doesn’t fit the dress code, I stash it in a coat pocket. Every time I wear it, I remember that I represent the hopes of the Randalls, my family, and this great University. If I’m nervous, I tighten up, adjust the tie, and tell myself the words the Randalls told me: “We’re expecting great things from you." The ideas this tie represents are what have built me up. They have allowed me to toil in my internships and research projects. They have inspired me to serve the University through tutoring, grading, and joining service organizations. And they are the same principles that I recommend to every student sitting here today. I want you to look at your donor—if he or she is sitting with you at the table today—and remember your responsibility to that person. We never cease to hear the famous words, “The Eyes of Texas are upon you." They serve as a constant reminder that each student carries the duty of meeting expectations, both inside and outside the classroom. Remember those responsibilities and you will not fail. Also, never forget the faith that your donors have in you. They have extended their generosity to you because they know that you can rise to meet whatever challenge faces you. Let their conviction be your confidence, and hold onto that confidence even in your darkest hours. Upon those two pillars, confidence and responsibility, you will be able to build for yourself whatever it is that you dream of. And your donors, like my own, and like my tie, should serve as an eternal token of those ideas. Above: Mikhaeil speaking at the 2013 Named Scholarship Dinner. Photo by Matt Valentine.

Texas Exes Awards Record $2.53 Million in Scholarships to UT Students [Infographic]

Texas Exes Awards Record $2.53 Million in Scholarships to UT Students [Infographic]

'So Much More Than a Check': Chapter Scholarship Recipient Shares Her Story

Veronica Maes is a UT junior studying chemical engineering and a recipient of the Texas Exes Houston Chapter AIM Foundation Scholarship. Maes was asked to speak at the Association's Chapters Scholarship Dinner on Aug. 29 to share how the scholarship has made a difference in her UT career. I grew up in a small town near the Gulf Coast called Lake Jackson. However, during high school my family moved around for my dad’s job, and I finally found myself in Houston when I was around 16. I graduated from Lamar High School. I had always been a Longhorn fan—I went to UT swim camp for three consecutive summers in middle school, I wore Texas T-shirts, and I cheered on the 'Horns during the Rose Bowl when I was in high school. When it came to making the college decision, there were many factors to consider. My parents were concerned about the financial aspects, as my little brother would be attending college two years after me. When I found out that I had been accepted to UT with the Texas Exes scholarship, you can imagine how excited I was. The decision was almost a no-brainer. I was given the opportunity to attend the fourth-best chemical engineering program in the nation, my dream school, with financial help. [pullquote] The Texas Exes Scholarship is a reminder that a group of people who graduated from my school believe in me. [/pullquote] When I arrived at UT, I immersed myself in as much as I could. I joined Texas Sweethearts, a social organization dedicated to serving the Austin community and supporting UT Athletics. I also became involved with the Cockrell School of Engineering, joining the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, Freshman Engineering Council, and later mentoring freshmen through the Student Engineering Council. One of the greatest things UT offered me this year was the opportunity to get a summer internship. I went to UT Engineering’s Career EXPO and met many employers and recruiters from Fortune 500 companies. The past two summers I have interned for BASF, the largest chemical company in the world. Seeing other Longhorns in the workplace and knowing the reputation UT has with companies has given me even more school pride than before. After graduation, I plan on working a full-time job in the chemical or oil industry in Houston. I also plan on connecting with the Houston Chapter and becoming a Texas Exes Life Member. To freshmen, I advise you to get involved as fast as you can. Joining organizations will help you meet your peers and have fun. But when it really comes down to it, we are all here to learn and to receive our college degrees. To put it bluntly, school is hard. The University of Texas makes you work for your degree. I have never been so challenged than I have been the past two years at this school, especially this past semester. To me, the Texas Exes scholarship is so much more than a check in the bank. The Texas Exes scholarship is a reminder that a group of people who graduated from my school believe in me. A group of Texas alumni are literally investing their money in me and my future because they know I will achieve great things. So to the students, when you are up at the PCL studying at 2 a.m. and you want to quit, remember the people that are investing in you and your future. When you get a test grade back that you aren’t very proud of, remember the people who believe in you and know you can do better. When you are walking through campus and pass the Tower, think of the people who were in your place not long ago, who wanted to share The University of Texas experience with you. So to the students, I hope you each have a good semester and keep in mind that there are a brilliant group of former Longhorns who believe in you. Thanks so much for having me here, and hook 'em horns.   Above: Maes at last week's scholarship dinner. Photo courtesy Matt Valentine.

'So Much More Than a Check': Chapter Scholarship Recipient Shares Her Story

Veronica Maes is a UT junior studying chemical engineering and a recipient of the Texas Exes Houston Chapter AIM Foundation Scholarship. Maes was asked to speak at the Association's Chapters Scholarship Dinner on Aug. 29 to share how the scholarship has made a difference in her UT career. I grew up in a small town near the Gulf Coast called Lake Jackson. However, during high school my family moved around for my dad’s job, and I finally found myself in Houston when I was around 16. I graduated from Lamar High School. I had always been a Longhorn fan—I went to UT swim camp for three consecutive summers in middle school, I wore Texas T-shirts, and I cheered on the 'Horns during the Rose Bowl when I was in high school. When it came to making the college decision, there were many factors to consider. My parents were concerned about the financial aspects, as my little brother would be attending college two years after me. When I found out that I had been accepted to UT with the Texas Exes scholarship, you can imagine how excited I was. The decision was almost a no-brainer. I was given the opportunity to attend the fourth-best chemical engineering program in the nation, my dream school, with financial help. [pullquote] The Texas Exes Scholarship is a reminder that a group of people who graduated from my school believe in me. [/pullquote] When I arrived at UT, I immersed myself in as much as I could. I joined Texas Sweethearts, a social organization dedicated to serving the Austin community and supporting UT Athletics. I also became involved with the Cockrell School of Engineering, joining the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, Freshman Engineering Council, and later mentoring freshmen through the Student Engineering Council. One of the greatest things UT offered me this year was the opportunity to get a summer internship. I went to UT Engineering’s Career EXPO and met many employers and recruiters from Fortune 500 companies. The past two summers I have interned for BASF, the largest chemical company in the world. Seeing other Longhorns in the workplace and knowing the reputation UT has with companies has given me even more school pride than before. After graduation, I plan on working a full-time job in the chemical or oil industry in Houston. I also plan on connecting with the Houston Chapter and becoming a Texas Exes Life Member. To freshmen, I advise you to get involved as fast as you can. Joining organizations will help you meet your peers and have fun. But when it really comes down to it, we are all here to learn and to receive our college degrees. To put it bluntly, school is hard. The University of Texas makes you work for your degree. I have never been so challenged than I have been the past two years at this school, especially this past semester. To me, the Texas Exes scholarship is so much more than a check in the bank. The Texas Exes scholarship is a reminder that a group of people who graduated from my school believe in me. A group of Texas alumni are literally investing their money in me and my future because they know I will achieve great things. So to the students, when you are up at the PCL studying at 2 a.m. and you want to quit, remember the people that are investing in you and your future. When you get a test grade back that you aren’t very proud of, remember the people who believe in you and know you can do better. When you are walking through campus and pass the Tower, think of the people who were in your place not long ago, who wanted to share The University of Texas experience with you. So to the students, I hope you each have a good semester and keep in mind that there are a brilliant group of former Longhorns who believe in you. Thanks so much for having me here, and hook 'em horns.   Above: Maes at last week's scholarship dinner. Photo courtesy Matt Valentine.

Newest Forty Acres Scholars Bond at Annual Retreat

Paint wars, public-speaking seminars, and some serious group bonding—the newest Forty Acres Scholars had a packed and diverse schedule when they converged on campus last week for the program's annual introductory Scholars Retreat. "The purpose of the retreat is for incoming scholars to come together and bond as a cohort," says Kristy Kimball, director of the Forty Acres Scholars Program. "These scholars will be together for the next four years, and we want them to make that connection early on." The members of the program's 2017 class kicked off the week by attending the second session of Camp Texas together—a new addition to the retreat lineup. Held out at Camp Balcones Springs in Marble Falls, Camp Texas offered scholars the chance to get to know fellow freshmen through paint wars, water Olympics, a luau, and more. Back at the Alumni Center afterwards, the scholars boarded a bus for the J.W. Marriott in San Antonio, where they attended a public-speaking seminar, group dinners, and a Forty Acres Scholars Program orientation. "It was neat getting to meet everyone again. There's just so many people to get to know," says Caroline Read, a scholar from Dallas. "Everyone is so funny—our humor is so similar. It surprises me all the time." In their free time, the scholars got to know each other while floating the Marriott's lazy river and exploring the hotel grounds. The group also took the opportunity to explore the Alamo—a first for a few out-of-state students. "I love seeing new places and meeting new people," says McKay Proctor, a scholar from Nashville, Tenn., who had only been to Texas twice before the retreat. "There's a constant novelty of it all." Prominent San Antonio alumni and generous Forty Acres Scholars Program supporters were on-hand to welcome the newest scholars to the UT family. Guests at the alumni dinner included Sally, MPA '84, and Craig Clayton, BBA '84, Life Members; Kathleen, BA '88, and Byron LeFlore, BA '86, PhD '89, Life Members; and San Antonio Chapter president Todd Hunt, BA '93. "What we keep saying about the program is that we're the icing on the cake," Kimball says. "We want them to experience personal development opportunities that they won't necessarily receive in an academic setting, like presenting to a panel of alumni or talking to a room full of donors." The Forty Acres Scholars Program prides itself on bringing the best and brightest to UT. This year's cohort is no exception—and the Class of 2017 is especially diverse. The program is welcoming its first-ever fine arts majors, including Sarah Vogts—a bassoon player—to campus this fall. "Everyone is so different, so interesting, and so smart," Read, a journalism and Plan II major, says. "I know this small group is going to make such a big University feel like home."   The Forty Acres Scholars Program is the premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship for The University of Texas at Austin.   The Forty Acres Scholars Program Class of 2017. Inset, photo by Kristy Kimball.

Newest Forty Acres Scholars Bond at Annual Retreat

Paint wars, public-speaking seminars, and some serious group bonding—the newest Forty Acres Scholars had a packed and diverse schedule when they converged on campus last week for the program's annual introductory Scholars Retreat. "The purpose of the retreat is for incoming scholars to come together and bond as a cohort," says Kristy Kimball, director of the Forty Acres Scholars Program. "These scholars will be together for the next four years, and we want them to make that connection early on." The members of the program's 2017 class kicked off the week by attending the second session of Camp Texas together—a new addition to the retreat lineup. Held out at Camp Balcones Springs in Marble Falls, Camp Texas offered scholars the chance to get to know fellow freshmen through paint wars, water Olympics, a luau, and more. Back at the Alumni Center afterwards, the scholars boarded a bus for the J.W. Marriott in San Antonio, where they attended a public-speaking seminar, group dinners, and a Forty Acres Scholars Program orientation. "It was neat getting to meet everyone again. There's just so many people to get to know," says Caroline Read, a scholar from Dallas. "Everyone is so funny—our humor is so similar. It surprises me all the time." In their free time, the scholars got to know each other while floating the Marriott's lazy river and exploring the hotel grounds. The group also took the opportunity to explore the Alamo—a first for a few out-of-state students. "I love seeing new places and meeting new people," says McKay Proctor, a scholar from Nashville, Tenn., who had only been to Texas twice before the retreat. "There's a constant novelty of it all." Prominent San Antonio alumni and generous Forty Acres Scholars Program supporters were on-hand to welcome the newest scholars to the UT family. Guests at the alumni dinner included Sally, MPA '84, and Craig Clayton, BBA '84, Life Members; Kathleen, BA '88, and Byron LeFlore, BA '86, PhD '89, Life Members; and San Antonio Chapter president Todd Hunt, BA '93. "What we keep saying about the program is that we're the icing on the cake," Kimball says. "We want them to experience personal development opportunities that they won't necessarily receive in an academic setting, like presenting to a panel of alumni or talking to a room full of donors." The Forty Acres Scholars Program prides itself on bringing the best and brightest to UT. This year's cohort is no exception—and the Class of 2017 is especially diverse. The program is welcoming its first-ever fine arts majors, including Sarah Vogts—a bassoon player—to campus this fall. "Everyone is so different, so interesting, and so smart," Read, a journalism and Plan II major, says. "I know this small group is going to make such a big University feel like home."   The Forty Acres Scholars Program is the premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship for The University of Texas at Austin.   The Forty Acres Scholars Program Class of 2017. Inset, photo by Kristy Kimball.

Newest Forty Acres Scholars Bond at Annual Retreat

Paint wars, public-speaking seminars, and some serious group bonding—the newest Forty Acres Scholars had a packed and diverse schedule when they converged on campus last week for the program's annual introductory Scholars Retreat. "The purpose of the retreat is for incoming scholars to come together and bond as a cohort," says Kristy Kimball, director of the Forty Acres Scholars Program. "These scholars will be together for the next four years, and we want them to make that connection early on." The members of the program's 2017 class kicked off the week by attending the second session of Camp Texas together—a new addition to the retreat lineup. Held out at Camp Balcones Springs in Marble Falls, Camp Texas offered scholars the chance to get to know fellow freshmen through paint wars, water Olympics, a luau, and more. Back at the Alumni Center afterwards, the scholars boarded a bus for the J.W. Marriott in San Antonio, where they attended a public-speaking seminar, group dinners, and a Forty Acres Scholars Program orientation. "It was neat getting to meet everyone again. There's just so many people to get to know," says Caroline Read, a scholar from Dallas. "Everyone is so funny—our humor is so similar. It surprises me all the time." In their free time, the scholars got to know each other while floating the Marriott's lazy river and exploring the hotel grounds. The group also took the opportunity to explore the Alamo—a first for a few out-of-state students. "I love seeing new places and meeting new people," says McKay Proctor, a scholar from Nashville, Tenn., who had only been to Texas twice before the retreat. "There's a constant novelty of it all." Prominent San Antonio alumni and generous Forty Acres Scholars Program supporters were on-hand to welcome the newest scholars to the UT family. Guests at the alumni dinner included Sally, MPA '84, and Craig Clayton, BBA '84, Life Members; Kathleen, BA '88, and Byron LeFlore, BA '86, PhD '89, Life Members; and San Antonio Chapter president Todd Hunt, BA '93. "What we keep saying about the program is that we're the icing on the cake," Kimball says. "We want them to experience personal development opportunities that they won't necessarily receive in an academic setting, like presenting to a panel of alumni or talking to a room full of donors." The Forty Acres Scholars Program prides itself on bringing the best and brightest to UT. This year's cohort is no exception—and the Class of 2017 is especially diverse. The program is welcoming its first-ever fine arts majors, including Sarah Vogts—a bassoon player—to campus this fall. "Everyone is so different, so interesting, and so smart," Read, a journalism and Plan II major, says. "I know this small group is going to make such a big University feel like home."   The Forty Acres Scholars Program is the premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship for The University of Texas at Austin.   The Forty Acres Scholars Program Class of 2017. Inset, photo by Kristy Kimball.

Forty Acres Scholar Explores Climate Issues in Botswana

Forty Acres Scholar Emma Heitmann's studies took her far beyond the typical classroom experience this summer—and straight into a majestic African safari. Heitmann, a sophomore studying environmental science at UT, spent six weeks studying abroad in the country of Botswana, where she explored climate change issues and interactions between humans and the environment. “We [worked] on a farm doing research on the changes in vegetation and how that’s affecting the environment,” Heitmann says. “And we also got to have some cultural experiences and learn about cultural issues there.” Heitmann says being in Botswana gave her a new outlook on how to approach environmental issues. Most of her classes as a freshman at UT focused on looking at issues from a physical perspective, but the trip opened her eyes to the cultural impact as well. “It challenged me … to look at the human dynamics and the cultural implications,” Heitmann says. “It really gave me a completely different perspective on the subject.” That’s not to say the trip was all work and no play. Though it was hard to pick just one experience as her favorite, Heitmann says she really enjoyed being on safari because she was able to observe lions, hyenas, and other wildlife without any fences or barriers. “It’s a completely different experience to be in nature like that,” Heitmann says. “You just feel so vulnerable, but at the same time you feel completely one with nature.” In addition to the real-world experience she gained while abroad, Heitmann learned something about the way of life in Botswana that she plans to bring back to campus with her this fall. “The pace of life there was so different. It was a lot slower. We still got the same amount of work done, but it was much more relaxed,” she says. “I hope to bring back some of that calmness with me when I return to the busyness of UT.” Without assistance from the Forty Acres Scholars Program, Heitmann says she would not have had the opportunity to go abroad and probably would have spent the summer at home working. “[The trip] was awesome,” Heitmann says, “and I’m just so grateful that the scholarship allowed me to go on it.” Though Heitmann isn’t 100 percent sure what she wants to do after graduation, the experience she had in Botswana has certainly got her thinking. “It was so refreshing to get away from the city and modernization and just be somewhere completely undeveloped,” Heitmann says. “I’m really interested in policy and after this trip, [I] think I want to do something international.” Top, Heitmann in front of the San Cultural Center.  Middle, A giraffe with an Acacia tree on the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. Bottom, An elephant at a watering hole. Emma Heitmann is a recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. Photos courtesy of Emma Heitmann.

Forty Acres Scholar Explores Climate Issues in Botswana

Forty Acres Scholar Emma Heitmann's studies took her far beyond the typical classroom experience this summer—and straight into a majestic African safari. Heitmann, a sophomore studying environmental science at UT, spent six weeks studying abroad in the country of Botswana, where she explored climate change issues and interactions between humans and the environment. “We [worked] on a farm doing research on the changes in vegetation and how that’s affecting the environment,” Heitmann says. “And we also got to have some cultural experiences and learn about cultural issues there.” Heitmann says being in Botswana gave her a new outlook on how to approach environmental issues. Most of her classes as a freshman at UT focused on looking at issues from a physical perspective, but the trip opened her eyes to the cultural impact as well. “It challenged me … to look at the human dynamics and the cultural implications,” Heitmann says. “It really gave me a completely different perspective on the subject.” That’s not to say the trip was all work and no play. Though it was hard to pick just one experience as her favorite, Heitmann says she really enjoyed being on safari because she was able to observe lions, hyenas, and other wildlife without any fences or barriers. “It’s a completely different experience to be in nature like that,” Heitmann says. “You just feel so vulnerable, but at the same time you feel completely one with nature.” In addition to the real-world experience she gained while abroad, Heitmann learned something about the way of life in Botswana that she plans to bring back to campus with her this fall. “The pace of life there was so different. It was a lot slower. We still got the same amount of work done, but it was much more relaxed,” she says. “I hope to bring back some of that calmness with me when I return to the busyness of UT.” Without assistance from the Forty Acres Scholars Program, Heitmann says she would not have had the opportunity to go abroad and probably would have spent the summer at home working. “[The trip] was awesome,” Heitmann says, “and I’m just so grateful that the scholarship allowed me to go on it.” Though Heitmann isn’t 100 percent sure what she wants to do after graduation, the experience she had in Botswana has certainly got her thinking. “It was so refreshing to get away from the city and modernization and just be somewhere completely undeveloped,” Heitmann says. “I’m really interested in policy and after this trip, [I] think I want to do something international.” Top, Heitmann in front of the San Cultural Center.  Middle, A giraffe with an Acacia tree on the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. Bottom, An elephant at a watering hole. Emma Heitmann is a recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. Photos courtesy of Emma Heitmann.

Forty Acres Scholar Explores Climate Issues in Botswana

Forty Acres Scholar Emma Heitmann's studies took her far beyond the typical classroom experience this summer—and straight into a majestic African safari. Heitmann, a sophomore studying environmental science at UT, spent six weeks studying abroad in the country of Botswana, where she explored climate change issues and interactions between humans and the environment. “We [worked] on a farm doing research on the changes in vegetation and how that’s affecting the environment,” Heitmann says. “And we also got to have some cultural experiences and learn about cultural issues there.” Heitmann says being in Botswana gave her a new outlook on how to approach environmental issues. Most of her classes as a freshman at UT focused on looking at issues from a physical perspective, but the trip opened her eyes to the cultural impact as well. “It challenged me … to look at the human dynamics and the cultural implications,” Heitmann says. “It really gave me a completely different perspective on the subject.” That’s not to say the trip was all work and no play. Though it was hard to pick just one experience as her favorite, Heitmann says she really enjoyed being on safari because she was able to observe lions, hyenas, and other wildlife without any fences or barriers. “It’s a completely different experience to be in nature like that,” Heitmann says. “You just feel so vulnerable, but at the same time you feel completely one with nature.” In addition to the real-world experience she gained while abroad, Heitmann learned something about the way of life in Botswana that she plans to bring back to campus with her this fall. “The pace of life there was so different. It was a lot slower. We still got the same amount of work done, but it was much more relaxed,” she says. “I hope to bring back some of that calmness with me when I return to the busyness of UT.” Without assistance from the Forty Acres Scholars Program, Heitmann says she would not have had the opportunity to go abroad and probably would have spent the summer at home working. “[The trip] was awesome,” Heitmann says, “and I’m just so grateful that the scholarship allowed me to go on it.” Though Heitmann isn’t 100 percent sure what she wants to do after graduation, the experience she had in Botswana has certainly got her thinking. “It was so refreshing to get away from the city and modernization and just be somewhere completely undeveloped,” Heitmann says. “I’m really interested in policy and after this trip, [I] think I want to do something international.” Top, Heitmann in front of the San Cultural Center.  Middle, A giraffe with an Acacia tree on the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. Bottom, An elephant at a watering hole. Emma Heitmann is a recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. Photos courtesy of Emma Heitmann.

Donor Spotlight: Dan Graham

Between completing his undergraduate degree, attending UT's School of Law, and now serving as an active alumnus on campus, Dan Graham, JD ’05, Life Member, has always felt at home on the Forty Acres. These days, he displays his Longhorn pride through his membership in the Forty Acres Society, a group of more than 80 alumni and friends of the University that supports the Forty Acres Scholars Program. The Forty Acres Scholars Program is the premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship for The University of Texas at Austin. Graham’s role as a member of the Forty Acres Society Council not only allows him to support the best and brightest UT students, but it has also helped him connect with like-minded alumni who have a passion for giving back. Society members help fund UT scholarships with an annual gift. “For a lot of other donation opportunities, you’re putting a smaller amount of money in a larger pool, and you aren’t sure exactly what the money is being used for,” Graham says. “It’s relatively inexpensive compared to other donations, and with that money you also get to experience the results.” Graham knows the impact a scholarship has on a student's life—he's experienced it firsthand. While at UT as an undergrad, he studied computer science and philosophy as a Dean's Scholar for the College of Natural Sciences. “I was fortunate enough through this program to develop long lasting relationships that are still valuable today,” says Graham. “Now I’m very excited to be helping the next generation.” After graduating from UT's School of Law in 2005, Graham first became involved as an alumnus through the law school’s Non-Practicing Alumni Advisory Council, where he helped guide law students into careers better suited to their passions. He also helped UT Professor David Laude with an innovation science program that supported students with entrepreneurial interests. Throughout his career, Graham has earned many accolades, including Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year, 2012 Austinite of the Year, and was named one of 2012’s Best Austin CEO’s of the Year. He attributes his accomplishments to his time spent on the Forty Acres, where he started his first company, BuildASign.com, as a student. The company has seen success not only in the U.S. but also in Germany, Canada, and Great Britain. The Forty Acres Society gives Graham the chance to give back to the school where it all began, as well as the opportunity to connect directly with the students who will benefit from his generosity. Unlike other donor programs, society members interact with the scholars and serve as their mentors. Graham says that's definitely one of the most fulfilling aspects of the program. ”The society works to recruit the most talented students around the U.S. who have the options to attend any Ivy League or esteemed university they want,” Graham says. “A valuable thing the program does is bring diversity to the table.” Photo courtesy Dan Graham.

Donor Spotlight: Dan Graham

Between completing his undergraduate degree, attending UT's School of Law, and now serving as an active alumnus on campus, Dan Graham, JD ’05, Life Member, has always felt at home on the Forty Acres. These days, he displays his Longhorn pride through his membership in the Forty Acres Society, a group of more than 80 alumni and friends of the University that supports the Forty Acres Scholars Program. The Forty Acres Scholars Program is the premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship for The University of Texas at Austin. Graham’s role as a member of the Forty Acres Society Council not only allows him to support the best and brightest UT students, but it has also helped him connect with like-minded alumni who have a passion for giving back. Society members help fund UT scholarships with an annual gift. “For a lot of other donation opportunities, you’re putting a smaller amount of money in a larger pool, and you aren’t sure exactly what the money is being used for,” Graham says. “It’s relatively inexpensive compared to other donations, and with that money you also get to experience the results.” Graham knows the impact a scholarship has on a student's life—he's experienced it firsthand. While at UT as an undergrad, he studied computer science and philosophy as a Dean's Scholar for the College of Natural Sciences. “I was fortunate enough through this program to develop long lasting relationships that are still valuable today,” says Graham. “Now I’m very excited to be helping the next generation.” After graduating from UT's School of Law in 2005, Graham first became involved as an alumnus through the law school’s Non-Practicing Alumni Advisory Council, where he helped guide law students into careers better suited to their passions. He also helped UT Professor David Laude with an innovation science program that supported students with entrepreneurial interests. Throughout his career, Graham has earned many accolades, including Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year, 2012 Austinite of the Year, and was named one of 2012’s Best Austin CEO’s of the Year. He attributes his accomplishments to his time spent on the Forty Acres, where he started his first company, BuildASign.com, as a student. The company has seen success not only in the U.S. but also in Germany, Canada, and Great Britain. The Forty Acres Society gives Graham the chance to give back to the school where it all began, as well as the opportunity to connect directly with the students who will benefit from his generosity. Unlike other donor programs, society members interact with the scholars and serve as their mentors. Graham says that's definitely one of the most fulfilling aspects of the program. ”The society works to recruit the most talented students around the U.S. who have the options to attend any Ivy League or esteemed university they want,” Graham says. “A valuable thing the program does is bring diversity to the table.” Photo courtesy Dan Graham.

Donor Spotlight: Dan Graham

Between completing his undergraduate degree, attending UT's School of Law, and now serving as an active alumnus on campus, Dan Graham, JD ’05, Life Member, has always felt at home on the Forty Acres. These days, he displays his Longhorn pride through his membership in the Forty Acres Society, a group of more than 80 alumni and friends of the University that supports the Forty Acres Scholars Program. The Forty Acres Scholars Program is the premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship for The University of Texas at Austin. Graham’s role as a member of the Forty Acres Society Council not only allows him to support the best and brightest UT students, but it has also helped him connect with like-minded alumni who have a passion for giving back. Society members help fund UT scholarships with an annual gift. “For a lot of other donation opportunities, you’re putting a smaller amount of money in a larger pool, and you aren’t sure exactly what the money is being used for,” Graham says. “It’s relatively inexpensive compared to other donations, and with that money you also get to experience the results.” Graham knows the impact a scholarship has on a student's life—he's experienced it firsthand. While at UT as an undergrad, he studied computer science and philosophy as a Dean's Scholar for the College of Natural Sciences. “I was fortunate enough through this program to develop long lasting relationships that are still valuable today,” says Graham. “Now I’m very excited to be helping the next generation.” After graduating from UT's School of Law in 2005, Graham first became involved as an alumnus through the law school’s Non-Practicing Alumni Advisory Council, where he helped guide law students into careers better suited to their passions. He also helped UT Professor David Laude with an innovation science program that supported students with entrepreneurial interests. Throughout his career, Graham has earned many accolades, including Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year, 2012 Austinite of the Year, and was named one of 2012’s Best Austin CEO’s of the Year. He attributes his accomplishments to his time spent on the Forty Acres, where he started his first company, BuildASign.com, as a student. The company has seen success not only in the U.S. but also in Germany, Canada, and Great Britain. The Forty Acres Society gives Graham the chance to give back to the school where it all began, as well as the opportunity to connect directly with the students who will benefit from his generosity. Unlike other donor programs, society members interact with the scholars and serve as their mentors. Graham says that's definitely one of the most fulfilling aspects of the program. ”The society works to recruit the most talented students around the U.S. who have the options to attend any Ivy League or esteemed university they want,” Graham says. “A valuable thing the program does is bring diversity to the table.” Photo courtesy Dan Graham.

Scholar Receives President's Leadership Award

Forty Acres Scholar Armiya Humphrey came to The University of Texas to get a well-rounded education. Now a sophomore, Humphrey—an accounting and humanities major in the business honors program—is actively working toward that goal. Humphrey recently received the President's Leadership Award, an honor given to undergraduate students who make an impact at UT by demonstrating outstanding leadership. “I’m extremely surprised and honored,” Humphrey says. “It makes me feel like I’m really making a difference on campus.” Humphrey is a peer mentor in the business honors program, where she's helping 10 to 15 freshmen learn the ropes on the Forty Acres. She's also on the Student Ethics Board and Steering Committee, where she focuses on getting feedback from students to determine what changes need to be made. “We really want to build relationships with these students,” Humphrey says. “It’s about making new friendships.” She also hopes to implement a freshman ethics seminar that emphasizes the importance of integrity and the honor code at UT. In addition to her involvement with BHP, Humphrey rushed Delta Sigma Pi the second semester of her freshman year. The business fraternity is based on three pillars: professionalism, social activities, and community service. As Humphrey continues her undergraduate studies at UT, she hopes to dedicate more time to these organizations and also attend more events on the Forty Acres. “I want to expand in everything I’m a part of,” she says. “I want to become more of a leader and become even more involved on campus.”

Scholar Receives President's Leadership Award

Forty Acres Scholar Armiya Humphrey came to The University of Texas to get a well-rounded education. Now a sophomore, Humphrey—an accounting and humanities major in the business honors program—is actively working toward that goal. Humphrey recently received the President's Leadership Award, an honor given to undergraduate students who make an impact at UT by demonstrating outstanding leadership. “I’m extremely surprised and honored,” Humphrey says. “It makes me feel like I’m really making a difference on campus.” Humphrey is a peer mentor in the business honors program, where she's helping 10 to 15 freshmen learn the ropes on the Forty Acres. She's also on the Student Ethics Board and Steering Committee, where she focuses on getting feedback from students to determine what changes need to be made. “We really want to build relationships with these students,” Humphrey says. “It’s about making new friendships.” She also hopes to implement a freshman ethics seminar that emphasizes the importance of integrity and the honor code at UT. In addition to her involvement with BHP, Humphrey rushed Delta Sigma Pi the second semester of her freshman year. The business fraternity is based on three pillars: professionalism, social activities, and community service. As Humphrey continues her undergraduate studies at UT, she hopes to dedicate more time to these organizations and also attend more events on the Forty Acres. “I want to expand in everything I’m a part of,” she says. “I want to become more of a leader and become even more involved on campus.”

Scholar Receives President's Leadership Award

Forty Acres Scholar Armiya Humphrey came to The University of Texas to get a well-rounded education. Now a sophomore, Humphrey—an accounting and humanities major in the business honors program—is actively working toward that goal. Humphrey recently received the President's Leadership Award, an honor given to undergraduate students who make an impact at UT by demonstrating outstanding leadership. “I’m extremely surprised and honored,” Humphrey says. “It makes me feel like I’m really making a difference on campus.” Humphrey is a peer mentor in the business honors program, where she's helping 10 to 15 freshmen learn the ropes on the Forty Acres. She's also on the Student Ethics Board and Steering Committee, where she focuses on getting feedback from students to determine what changes need to be made. “We really want to build relationships with these students,” Humphrey says. “It’s about making new friendships.” She also hopes to implement a freshman ethics seminar that emphasizes the importance of integrity and the honor code at UT. In addition to her involvement with BHP, Humphrey rushed Delta Sigma Pi the second semester of her freshman year. The business fraternity is based on three pillars: professionalism, social activities, and community service. As Humphrey continues her undergraduate studies at UT, she hopes to dedicate more time to these organizations and also attend more events on the Forty Acres. “I want to expand in everything I’m a part of,” she says. “I want to become more of a leader and become even more involved on campus.”

Year in Review: The Forty Acres Scholars Look Back

The end of another academic year has arrived, and UT's most elite bunch of freshmen and sophomores—the Forty Acres Scholars—are taking a look back at their accomplishments on the UT campus thus far. Last week, all 23 of the current Forty Acres Scholars met at the Etter-Harbin Alumni Center to present about their endeavors at UT. The premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship for UT, the Forty Acres Scholars Program brings the nation's most talented students to Texas. Throughout the four years in the program, scholars are required to give back to the community, participate in a global experience, and grow professionally. During their presentations, the scholars discussed their efforts in those three areas with a panel of successful Texas Exes, including FASP fundraising chair Tom Dunning, BBA '65, Life Member. So what all have the Forty Acres Scholars accomplished in just one year? Well, a lot. Caroline Meyerson, a freshman business honors and Plan II honors major and Houston native, spent her first year on campus volunteering as an application evaluator for incoming students in the Business Honors Program. She recently became the director of alumni relations in Student Government, and is a member of the judicial committee of her sorority. This summer, she will be taking 13 hours of coursework and will be a camp counselor at Camp Texas. The Forty Acres Scholars Program, Meyerson said, has had a tremendous impact on her accomplishments as a freshman. “I honestly had no idea what this program would do for me,” Meyerson said. “The exposure that we get to this alumni base and the automatic friend group—every opportunity was so amazing.” Connecting to that Forty Acres Scholars family was something sophomore and accounting, business honors and humanities major Armiya Humphrey recommended for future scholars. [pullquote]“The exposure that we get to this alumni base and the automatic friend group—every opportunity was so amazing.”[/pullquote] "Get to know as many people as possible within the program," Humphrey said. “Networking is so big, and I think one of the important things the Forty Acres Scholarship Program does is connect you with people, students, and alumni. Take advantage of everything because it is worth it.” Humphrey recently received a President's Leadership Award at The EXies, an awards ceremony put on by the Texas Exes. The award recognizes undergraduate students who have demonstrated outstanding leadership within the student community on campus. Last summer, Humphrey worked with Empowerment 101 in San Antonio as a mentor to develop the SAT skills of high school minorities. Her next pursuits include mastering the Spanish language in Santander, Spain, this summer, completing the MPA program, and serving on the Business Honors Program student conduct board. Katie Mark, an architecture and architectural engineering honors freshman from Bethesda, Md., has found her home away from home in the Forty Acres Scholars Program. "I knew absolutely no one when I decided to come here," Mark said, "so getting to know the scholars during retreat and Camp Texas made the transition easier.” Mark received the Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest achievement in Girl Scouts, after 13 years of service. She hopes to volunteer with a troop in Austin. All the scholars spoke of the incredible impact the program has had on their lives at UT. Abhay Divakaruni, a freshman Plan II and business honors major, said he found his sense of self-identity within the program. He is now writing a fiction novel about the journey of self-discovery and is in the process of starting a new organization on campus, the Society of Bards, to help others share their stories. He will spend his summer interning with Merrill Lynch in Sugar Land, Texas. Divakaruni's advice for future Forty Acres Scholars: “It’s okay to be human. The first year is the time to explore and understand you will make mistakes,” he said. “In the beginning, I think the best thing is to know you don’t have to achieve something great right off the bat. That you can be human for a bit.” Photo by Andrew Alden Miller.

Year in Review: The Forty Acres Scholars Look Back

The end of another academic year has arrived, and UT's most elite bunch of freshmen and sophomores—the Forty Acres Scholars—are taking a look back at their accomplishments on the UT campus thus far. Last week, all 23 of the current Forty Acres Scholars met at the Etter-Harbin Alumni Center to present about their endeavors at UT. The premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship for UT, the Forty Acres Scholars Program brings the nation's most talented students to Texas. Throughout the four years in the program, scholars are required to give back to the community, participate in a global experience, and grow professionally. During their presentations, the scholars discussed their efforts in those three areas with a panel of successful Texas Exes, including FASP fundraising chair Tom Dunning, BBA '65, Life Member. So what all have the Forty Acres Scholars accomplished in just one year? Well, a lot. Caroline Meyerson, a freshman business honors and Plan II honors major and Houston native, spent her first year on campus volunteering as an application evaluator for incoming students in the Business Honors Program. She recently became the director of alumni relations in Student Government, and is a member of the judicial committee of her sorority. This summer, she will be taking 13 hours of coursework and will be a camp counselor at Camp Texas. The Forty Acres Scholars Program, Meyerson said, has had a tremendous impact on her accomplishments as a freshman. “I honestly had no idea what this program would do for me,” Meyerson said. “The exposure that we get to this alumni base and the automatic friend group—every opportunity was so amazing.” Connecting to that Forty Acres Scholars family was something sophomore and accounting, business honors and humanities major Armiya Humphrey recommended for future scholars. [pullquote]“The exposure that we get to this alumni base and the automatic friend group—every opportunity was so amazing.”[/pullquote] "Get to know as many people as possible within the program," Humphrey said. “Networking is so big, and I think one of the important things the Forty Acres Scholarship Program does is connect you with people, students, and alumni. Take advantage of everything because it is worth it.” Humphrey recently received a President's Leadership Award at The EXies, an awards ceremony put on by the Texas Exes. The award recognizes undergraduate students who have demonstrated outstanding leadership within the student community on campus. Last summer, Humphrey worked with Empowerment 101 in San Antonio as a mentor to develop the SAT skills of high school minorities. Her next pursuits include mastering the Spanish language in Santander, Spain, this summer, completing the MPA program, and serving on the Business Honors Program student conduct board. Katie Mark, an architecture and architectural engineering honors freshman from Bethesda, Md., has found her home away from home in the Forty Acres Scholars Program. "I knew absolutely no one when I decided to come here," Mark said, "so getting to know the scholars during retreat and Camp Texas made the transition easier.” Mark received the Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest achievement in Girl Scouts, after 13 years of service. She hopes to volunteer with a troop in Austin. All the scholars spoke of the incredible impact the program has had on their lives at UT. Abhay Divakaruni, a freshman Plan II and business honors major, said he found his sense of self-identity within the program. He is now writing a fiction novel about the journey of self-discovery and is in the process of starting a new organization on campus, the Society of Bards, to help others share their stories. He will spend his summer interning with Merrill Lynch in Sugar Land, Texas. Divakaruni's advice for future Forty Acres Scholars: “It’s okay to be human. The first year is the time to explore and understand you will make mistakes,” he said. “In the beginning, I think the best thing is to know you don’t have to achieve something great right off the bat. That you can be human for a bit.” Photo by Andrew Alden Miller.

Year in Review: The Forty Acres Scholars Look Back

The end of another academic year has arrived, and UT's most elite bunch of freshmen and sophomores—the Forty Acres Scholars—are taking a look back at their accomplishments on the UT campus thus far. Last week, all 23 of the current Forty Acres Scholars met at the Etter-Harbin Alumni Center to present about their endeavors at UT. The premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship for UT, the Forty Acres Scholars Program brings the nation's most talented students to Texas. Throughout the four years in the program, scholars are required to give back to the community, participate in a global experience, and grow professionally. During their presentations, the scholars discussed their efforts in those three areas with a panel of successful Texas Exes, including FASP fundraising chair Tom Dunning, BBA '65, Life Member. So what all have the Forty Acres Scholars accomplished in just one year? Well, a lot. Caroline Meyerson, a freshman business honors and Plan II honors major and Houston native, spent her first year on campus volunteering as an application evaluator for incoming students in the Business Honors Program. She recently became the director of alumni relations in Student Government, and is a member of the judicial committee of her sorority. This summer, she will be taking 13 hours of coursework and will be a camp counselor at Camp Texas. The Forty Acres Scholars Program, Meyerson said, has had a tremendous impact on her accomplishments as a freshman. “I honestly had no idea what this program would do for me,” Meyerson said. “The exposure that we get to this alumni base and the automatic friend group—every opportunity was so amazing.” Connecting to that Forty Acres Scholars family was something sophomore and accounting, business honors and humanities major Armiya Humphrey recommended for future scholars. [pullquote]“The exposure that we get to this alumni base and the automatic friend group—every opportunity was so amazing.”[/pullquote] "Get to know as many people as possible within the program," Humphrey said. “Networking is so big, and I think one of the important things the Forty Acres Scholarship Program does is connect you with people, students, and alumni. Take advantage of everything because it is worth it.” Humphrey recently received a President's Leadership Award at The EXies, an awards ceremony put on by the Texas Exes. The award recognizes undergraduate students who have demonstrated outstanding leadership within the student community on campus. Last summer, Humphrey worked with Empowerment 101 in San Antonio as a mentor to develop the SAT skills of high school minorities. Her next pursuits include mastering the Spanish language in Santander, Spain, this summer, completing the MPA program, and serving on the Business Honors Program student conduct board. Katie Mark, an architecture and architectural engineering honors freshman from Bethesda, Md., has found her home away from home in the Forty Acres Scholars Program. "I knew absolutely no one when I decided to come here," Mark said, "so getting to know the scholars during retreat and Camp Texas made the transition easier.” Mark received the Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest achievement in Girl Scouts, after 13 years of service. She hopes to volunteer with a troop in Austin. All the scholars spoke of the incredible impact the program has had on their lives at UT. Abhay Divakaruni, a freshman Plan II and business honors major, said he found his sense of self-identity within the program. He is now writing a fiction novel about the journey of self-discovery and is in the process of starting a new organization on campus, the Society of Bards, to help others share their stories. He will spend his summer interning with Merrill Lynch in Sugar Land, Texas. Divakaruni's advice for future Forty Acres Scholars: “It’s okay to be human. The first year is the time to explore and understand you will make mistakes,” he said. “In the beginning, I think the best thing is to know you don’t have to achieve something great right off the bat. That you can be human for a bit.” Photo by Andrew Alden Miller.

Donor Spotlight: Tom Dunning

When Tom Dunning, BBA ’65, Life Member, was a student at UT, tuition was just $50 a year. Today, a single semester on the Forty Acres will run you between $5,500 and $6,000—a daunting fact that prompted Dunning and his wife, Sally, to give back through Texas Exes scholarships. Dunning, who is chairman emeritus of Dallas’ Lockton Dunning Benefits, has recently signed on as the chair of fundraising efforts for the Forty Acres Scholars Program—the premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship for The University of Texas at Austin. His goal: to help raise $150 million to expand the program to 200 scholars, far surpassing the 23 currently on campus. “We were losing many of our best and brightest students, who were getting full rides to schools like Virginia, North Carolina, and many of the Ivy League schools,” Dunning says. “The Forty Acres Scholars Program is about identifying the most outstanding scholars and leaders. We want the very, very best to stay in Texas and to attend UT." And Dunning has played a vital role in making that happen. He and Sally personally support the Forty Acres Scholars Program. Marisa Swanson, a bright young woman from Grand Prairie, Texas, who is majoring in Plan II Honors and Social Work, currently holds the Dunnings’ Forty Acres Scholarship. She turned down her acceptance to Harvard when she was offered the scholarship to UT. “The Forty Acres Scholars Program has been the greatest experience,” Swanson says. “[Tom Dunning] is literally the greatest man to have given me this blessing and opportunity.” The admiration goes both ways. Dunning says that when Swanson walks into a room, she has a wonderful presence. “She is just terrific,” he says. “She was very involved with nonprofits while she was in high school, because she is always looking to help others. It is very exciting for us to see how well she is doing at UT.” Swanson’s passion for social work is also shared by the Dunnings. “Both my wife and I, through our civic work and working with nonprofits and with city and state boards, have worked with a number of outstanding social workers,” Dunning says. “We have seen the positive impact they make on so many people and families. Social workers are truly the thread that holds the fabric of society together.” He hopes that Swanson gets the same great experience he had while attending school on the Forty Acres. Thanks to encouragement from the late Shirley Bird Perry, Dunning took on leadership roles in many campus organizations—including Sigma Phi Epsilon and the Silver Spurs—which later led him to become an active leader in Dallas and the state of Texas. “I’ve often said that if I had not gone to UT, I might not know who I am today,” Dunning says. “It’s where I met my wife, discovered what business I wanted to go into, and found lifelong friends. It all comes back to attending UT.” Tom Dunning and Marisa Swanson.

Donor Spotlight: Tom Dunning

When Tom Dunning, BBA ’65, Life Member, was a student at UT, tuition was just $50 a year. Today, a single semester on the Forty Acres will run you between $5,500 and $6,000—a daunting fact that prompted Dunning and his wife, Sally, to give back through Texas Exes scholarships. Dunning, who is chairman emeritus of Dallas’ Lockton Dunning Benefits, has recently signed on as the chair of fundraising efforts for the Forty Acres Scholars Program—the premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship for The University of Texas at Austin. His goal: to help raise $150 million to expand the program to 200 scholars, far surpassing the 23 currently on campus. “We were losing many of our best and brightest students, who were getting full rides to schools like Virginia, North Carolina, and many of the Ivy League schools,” Dunning says. “The Forty Acres Scholars Program is about identifying the most outstanding scholars and leaders. We want the very, very best to stay in Texas and to attend UT." And Dunning has played a vital role in making that happen. He and Sally personally support the Forty Acres Scholars Program. Marisa Swanson, a bright young woman from Grand Prairie, Texas, who is majoring in Plan II Honors and Social Work, currently holds the Dunnings’ Forty Acres Scholarship. She turned down her acceptance to Harvard when she was offered the scholarship to UT. “The Forty Acres Scholars Program has been the greatest experience,” Swanson says. “[Tom Dunning] is literally the greatest man to have given me this blessing and opportunity.” The admiration goes both ways. Dunning says that when Swanson walks into a room, she has a wonderful presence. “She is just terrific,” he says. “She was very involved with nonprofits while she was in high school, because she is always looking to help others. It is very exciting for us to see how well she is doing at UT.” Swanson’s passion for social work is also shared by the Dunnings. “Both my wife and I, through our civic work and working with nonprofits and with city and state boards, have worked with a number of outstanding social workers,” Dunning says. “We have seen the positive impact they make on so many people and families. Social workers are truly the thread that holds the fabric of society together.” He hopes that Swanson gets the same great experience he had while attending school on the Forty Acres. Thanks to encouragement from the late Shirley Bird Perry, Dunning took on leadership roles in many campus organizations—including Sigma Phi Epsilon and the Silver Spurs—which later led him to become an active leader in Dallas and the state of Texas. “I’ve often said that if I had not gone to UT, I might not know who I am today,” Dunning says. “It’s where I met my wife, discovered what business I wanted to go into, and found lifelong friends. It all comes back to attending UT.” Tom Dunning and Marisa Swanson.

Donor Spotlight: Tom Dunning

When Tom Dunning, BBA ’65, Life Member, was a student at UT, tuition was just $50 a year. Today, a single semester on the Forty Acres will run you between $5,500 and $6,000—a daunting fact that prompted Dunning and his wife, Sally, to give back through Texas Exes scholarships. Dunning, who is chairman emeritus of Dallas’ Lockton Dunning Benefits, has recently signed on as the chair of fundraising efforts for the Forty Acres Scholars Program—the premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship for The University of Texas at Austin. His goal: to help raise $150 million to expand the program to 200 scholars, far surpassing the 23 currently on campus. “We were losing many of our best and brightest students, who were getting full rides to schools like Virginia, North Carolina, and many of the Ivy League schools,” Dunning says. “The Forty Acres Scholars Program is about identifying the most outstanding scholars and leaders. We want the very, very best to stay in Texas and to attend UT." And Dunning has played a vital role in making that happen. He and Sally personally support the Forty Acres Scholars Program. Marisa Swanson, a bright young woman from Grand Prairie, Texas, who is majoring in Plan II Honors and Social Work, currently holds the Dunnings’ Forty Acres Scholarship. She turned down her acceptance to Harvard when she was offered the scholarship to UT. “The Forty Acres Scholars Program has been the greatest experience,” Swanson says. “[Tom Dunning] is literally the greatest man to have given me this blessing and opportunity.” The admiration goes both ways. Dunning says that when Swanson walks into a room, she has a wonderful presence. “She is just terrific,” he says. “She was very involved with nonprofits while she was in high school, because she is always looking to help others. It is very exciting for us to see how well she is doing at UT.” Swanson’s passion for social work is also shared by the Dunnings. “Both my wife and I, through our civic work and working with nonprofits and with city and state boards, have worked with a number of outstanding social workers,” Dunning says. “We have seen the positive impact they make on so many people and families. Social workers are truly the thread that holds the fabric of society together.” He hopes that Swanson gets the same great experience he had while attending school on the Forty Acres. Thanks to encouragement from the late Shirley Bird Perry, Dunning took on leadership roles in many campus organizations—including Sigma Phi Epsilon and the Silver Spurs—which later led him to become an active leader in Dallas and the state of Texas. “I’ve often said that if I had not gone to UT, I might not know who I am today,” Dunning says. “It’s where I met my wife, discovered what business I wanted to go into, and found lifelong friends. It all comes back to attending UT.” Tom Dunning and Marisa Swanson.

Forty Acres Finalists Get Red-Carpet Treatment

More than 40 of the nation's top high school seniors got to know The University of Texas a little better this weekend at the annual Forty Acres Scholars Program Finalists Weekend. From visits to UT's schools and colleges to an amphibious Austin Duck tour, the 41 finalists for UT's most elite full-ride merit scholarship got a thorough picture of what their life at UT and in Austin could look like. During three days on campus, they were given special access to all the University has to offer. UT president Bill Powers stopped by during their private tour of the Tower, and football legend Vince Young even made a surprise appearance. Forty Acres Scholars Program associate director Kristy Kimball says that the weekend had something for everyone. "They had the option to tour the new Moncrief-Neuhaus Athletics Center or the Bass Concert Hall," she says. "We wanted to show them not just academics, but also the fun side of UT." The finalists also enjoyed dinner with alumni, faculty, and staff, plus plenty of down time with current scholars. At Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium, the Jumbotron was even lit up with a welcome message just for them. The weekend ended with the interviews that helped select the next class of scholarship recipients. Kimball says the scholarship team worked hard to make sure the finalists felt at ease. By May 1, the next class of recipients will be selected. Kimball is in the process of notifying the recipients by phone. "Many of the students I've called accepted on the spot," she says. "Getting to deliver that news makes me feel proud of the job I get to do." The finalists who don't receive the scholarship aren't left out in the cold. According to Kimball, the Texas Exes scholarship team makes every effort to find at least some financial assistance for all the finalists. "It's not a guarantee, but we do our best to support them all," Kimball says. "These are all extremely talented students, and our goal is for all 41 of them to attend UT." Forty Acres Scholars Program finalists pose with Bevo at the Alumni Center. Photo by Andrew Miller.

Forty Acres Finalists Get Red-Carpet Treatment

More than 40 of the nation's top high school seniors got to know The University of Texas a little better this weekend at the annual Forty Acres Scholars Program Finalists Weekend. From visits to UT's schools and colleges to an amphibious Austin Duck tour, the 41 finalists for UT's most elite full-ride merit scholarship got a thorough picture of what their life at UT and in Austin could look like. During three days on campus, they were given special access to all the University has to offer. UT president Bill Powers stopped by during their private tour of the Tower, and football legend Vince Young even made a surprise appearance. Forty Acres Scholars Program associate director Kristy Kimball says that the weekend had something for everyone. "They had the option to tour the new Moncrief-Neuhaus Athletics Center or the Bass Concert Hall," she says. "We wanted to show them not just academics, but also the fun side of UT." The finalists also enjoyed dinner with alumni, faculty, and staff, plus plenty of down time with current scholars. At Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium, the Jumbotron was even lit up with a welcome message just for them. The weekend ended with the interviews that helped select the next class of scholarship recipients. Kimball says the scholarship team worked hard to make sure the finalists felt at ease. By May 1, the next class of recipients will be selected. Kimball is in the process of notifying the recipients by phone. "Many of the students I've called accepted on the spot," she says. "Getting to deliver that news makes me feel proud of the job I get to do." The finalists who don't receive the scholarship aren't left out in the cold. According to Kimball, the Texas Exes scholarship team makes every effort to find at least some financial assistance for all the finalists. "It's not a guarantee, but we do our best to support them all," Kimball says. "These are all extremely talented students, and our goal is for all 41 of them to attend UT." Forty Acres Scholars Program finalists pose with Bevo at the Alumni Center. Photo by Andrew Miller.

Forty Acres Finalists Get Red-Carpet Treatment

More than 40 of the nation's top high school seniors got to know The University of Texas a little better this weekend at the annual Forty Acres Scholars Program Finalists Weekend. From visits to UT's schools and colleges to an amphibious Austin Duck tour, the 41 finalists for UT's most elite full-ride merit scholarship got a thorough picture of what their life at UT and in Austin could look like. During three days on campus, they were given special access to all the University has to offer. UT president Bill Powers stopped by during their private tour of the Tower, and football legend Vince Young even made a surprise appearance. Forty Acres Scholars Program associate director Kristy Kimball says that the weekend had something for everyone. "They had the option to tour the new Moncrief-Neuhaus Athletics Center or the Bass Concert Hall," she says. "We wanted to show them not just academics, but also the fun side of UT." The finalists also enjoyed dinner with alumni, faculty, and staff, plus plenty of down time with current scholars. At Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium, the Jumbotron was even lit up with a welcome message just for them. The weekend ended with the interviews that helped select the next class of scholarship recipients. Kimball says the scholarship team worked hard to make sure the finalists felt at ease. By May 1, the next class of recipients will be selected. Kimball is in the process of notifying the recipients by phone. "Many of the students I've called accepted on the spot," she says. "Getting to deliver that news makes me feel proud of the job I get to do." The finalists who don't receive the scholarship aren't left out in the cold. According to Kimball, the Texas Exes scholarship team makes every effort to find at least some financial assistance for all the finalists. "It's not a guarantee, but we do our best to support them all," Kimball says. "These are all extremely talented students, and our goal is for all 41 of them to attend UT." Forty Acres Scholars Program finalists pose with Bevo at the Alumni Center. Photo by Andrew Miller.