UTA, Hill College team up to shape campus vision
The University of Texas at Arlington’s Institute of Urban Studies has been selected to assist Hill College, one of Texas’ oldest community colleges, in developing a campus vision rooted in design best practices and stakeholder input.
The institute, a research and service unit within UTA’s College of Architecture, Planning and Public Affairs, will create a proposal that aligns with Hill College’s academic and strategic goals, optimizes existing resources, assesses student housing needs and enhances campus safety and wellness.
Hill College is in Hillsboro, about 55 miles south of Dallas-Fort Worth, and has an enrollment of around 4,000 students. It first enrolled students in 1923 and became the first municipal junior college chartered in Texas.
“Hill College plays a vital role in providing accessible education and resources to its community, and we are honored to collaborate with them on this transformative initiative,” said Hannah Lebovits, assistant director of the Institute of Urban Studies. “Through thoughtful research and planning, we aim to develop a vision that supports Hill College’s strategic goals and ensures a vibrant and sustainable environment for its students, faculty and staff.”
Dr. Lebovits emphasized that the partnership exemplifies how UTA, the Institute of Urban Studies and Hill College can leverage resources to meet Texas’ rapidly evolving workforce demands.
“We are pleased to continue and expand our relationship with Hill College,” said Alan Klein, director of the Institute of Urban Studies. “This project represents an exciting opportunity for our students to work with the broader community to make a visible and positive impact.”
The Institute of Urban Studies has a proven track record of delivering impactful research and actionable urban and community development plans. By leveraging its expertise in urban studies, planning and public affairs, the institute will provide Hill College with a roadmap that aligns with its mission and addresses the unique challenges facing community colleges in Texas.
“We are excited to partner once again with UTA on campus planning,” said Jessyca Brown, vice president of institutional affairs at Hill College. “Their expertise and vision were instrumental in shaping the campus environment, and we look forward to continuing that partnership as we enhance our space and services for students and faculty alike.”
This initiative exemplifies UTA’s commitment to fostering partnerships that drive meaningful change and advance education and community development across the state.
About The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA)
Located in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, The University of Texas at Arlington is a comprehensive teaching, research, and public service institution dedicated to the advancement of knowledge through scholarship and creative work. With an enrollment of approximately 41,000 students, UT Arlington is the second-largest institution in the UT System. UTA’s combination of outstanding academics and innovative research contributes to its designation as a Carnegie R-1 “Very High Research Activity” institution, a significant milestone of excellence. The University is designated as a Hispanic Serving-Institution and an Asian American Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution by the U.S. Department of Education and has earned the Seal of Excelencia for its commitment to accelerating Latino student success. The University ranks in the top five nationally for veterans and their families (Military Times, 2024), is No. 4 in Texas for advancing social mobility (U.S. News & World Report, 2025), and is No. 6 in the United States for its undergraduate ethnic diversity (U.S. News & World Report, 2025). UT Arlington’s approximately 270,000 alumni occupy leadership positions at many of the 21 Fortune 500 companies headquartered in North Texas and contribute to the University’s $28.8 billion annual economic impact on Texas.
About Hill College
Hill College, founded in 1923, is a comprehensive community college with three locations in Hillsboro, Cleburne, and Burleson, Texas, and a significant online presence. The college offers a diverse array of academic programs, including associate degrees, technical certifications, and job training. Hill College is committed to being a beacon of excellence in teaching, learning, and innovation. By creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment, the college prepares students for success in an ever-evolving world. With a focus on accessible education, student-centered services, and community engagement, Hill College plays a crucial role in enhancing the educational and economic vitality of the region.