Spring ’26: UTA’s first family takes center stage
On Sunday, when more than 5,000 University of Texas at Arlington students walk across the stage, graduates Jon and Nathan Cowley will have a unique cheering section. Their spouse and mother, respectively, will be the one conferring the degrees.
Jon, husband of UTA President Jennifer Cowley, and their son, Nathan, will both graduate at UTA's spring commencement ceremony at Globe Life Field. Jon is earning an MBA with a concentration in information systems through UTA's newly launched STEM MBA program, making him among the first graduates to earn the degree.
Nathan is completing his undergraduate degree in history magna cum laude and will return to UTA in the fall to begin his master's degree in the same field, with plans to become a high school history teacher.
"It wasn't planned that Nathan and I would finish at the same time," Jon said. "But I love the timing. And I just wanted to dive in. Not only do I love UTA because everyone is so amazing, but also because I'm now an alumnus."
For President Cowley, watching her husband and son cross the stage is a moment she's envisioned.
“Commencement is always a celebration of perseverance and possibility, and this year it’s especially meaningful for me as a mother and spouse. Seeing Jon and Nathan achieve their goals alongside thousands of our Mavericks is a powerful reminder of what makes UTA such a transformative place.”
Jon's decision to return to school was driven by his professional goals. Already holding a master's degree in advanced analytics from the University of North Texas, he identified a knowledge gap while working alongside information systems professionals in his data science career. When UTA announced the new STEM MBA, it felt like the right fit.
"I can pick up some core business classes, concentrate in information systems and pick up some additional analytics classes along the way," Jon said.
For Nathan, the UTA experience brought some unexpected highlights—including a guest lecture on the history of ufology through UTA’s Center for Greater Southwestern Studies.
"I wouldn't have even thought that was a field of study," Nathan said. "It was really cool that they brought in someone so interesting that I got to listen to for an hour."
Nathan also found lasting inspiration in UTA’s Department of History and Geography, particularly from Sam Haynes, professor and director of the Center for Greater Southwestern Studies. He also pointed to Assistant Professor Delaina Price, whose seminar on the Reconstruction era gave him the freedom to pursue his own research and a reading list he’s still working through.
"There are a lot of really amazing professors who have done a great job, not only in the classes, but in inspiring me to learn more outside of class as well," Nathan said.
Dr. Cowley notes that “Nathan’s experience reflects what we strive for at UTA. Our faculty serve as mentors who encourage students to explore new ideas, think for themselves and develop a love of learning that lasts well beyond graduation.”
Nathan, who chose UTA because of the excellence of its academic programs, said he was pleasantly surprised by UTA’s campus life, particularly its walkable green spaces.
"It's very, very pedestrian-focused, which I really appreciate," he said.
For the Cowley family, Sunday’s commencement carries meaning that goes beyond the diplomas. Jon once graduated alongside his sister and now continues what has become something of a tradition—walking the graduation stage with family.
"I have lived in a family of people who have loved higher education," Nathan said. "Maybe it's not a coincidence, but I guess it's a new, fun tradition of graduating alongside family members."
“This moment is incredibly special for our family, but I know we’re not alone,” President Cowley said. “So many Maverick parents are feeling this same sense of pride as they watch their loved ones cross the stage, and it’s an honor to share in that with them.”
And finally for Jon, a little extra motivation to walk the stage was because he thought it would be fun to have a diploma signed by his wife.
President Cowley's response?
"That's an awful lot of work to get my signature when I can give it to you whenever you want," she said.
About The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA)
The University of Texas at Arlington is a growing public research university in the heart of Dallas-Fort Worth. With a student body of over 42,700, UTA is the second-largest institution in the University of Texas System, offering more than 180 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Recognized as a Carnegie R-1 university, UTA stands among the nation’s top 5% of institutions for research activity. UTA and its 300,000 alumni generate an annual economic impact of $28.8 billion for the state. The University has received the Innovation and Economic Prosperity designation from the Association of Public and Land Grant Universities and has earned recognition for its focus on student access and success, considered key drivers to economic growth and social progress for North Texas and beyond.