Private philanthropy at UTA makes a transformative impact on our students and campus community. It’s an impact that goes beyond our campus. From scholarships to endowments that advance groundbreaking research initiatives, the financial support offered by alumni and friends of the University builds a strong sense of community among the Maverick faithful. Thanks to donors over the past year, the University has grown both in physical size and in the number of opportunities it creates for the many talented researchers and students who make UTA their academic home.
Building Community
BRAZOS PARK
The newest development on UTA’s campus is Brazos Park, which will be located at the former site of the Brazos House residence hall. The new green space is made possible in part by a generous gift from UTA alumnus Mustaque Ahmed (’81 BS, Economics). The park and amphitheater support his vision of creating places on campus for students, faculty, staff, and guests to share ideas, engaging the broader community. Ahmed is also the founder of The Festival of Ideas Global Research Institute in the College of Liberal Arts, which fosters thoughtful dialogue on issues that are vital to a diverse society. Brazos Park extends the “festival,” creating a vibrant place in the heart of the UTA campus.
Supporting Student Success
THORNTON SCHOLARSHIP GIFT
Grace Thornton has made known her intention to help students achieve success at UTA. In 1980, the Grace Gee Thornton Scholarship Fund created 30 scholarships of $250 each. This year the fund had a significantly larger reach, distributing more than $3.2 million toward student scholarships. It is one of the largest single gifts made to UTA to support student scholarships, but the legacy the late Grace Thornton left at UTA is much bigger than a single gift. It is a lifetime of generosity that will perpetuate kindness for generations to come.
Personal Impact
UPHOLDING THE FUTURE OF JOURNALISM
Student organizations across campus are often supported by private philanthropy through scholarship and program endowments. As one of the oldest institutions at UTA, The Shorthorn employs more than 100 students annually and awards scholarships to those students interested in pursuing careers in the media industry.
“Working at The Shorthorn has changed my life entirely. Without The Shorthorn, I wouldn’t have the experience, the scholarships, or internships that I’ve had. It has only solidified my love for journalism and how much I’m meant to be working in this field.”
—Narda Pérez, 2018 Shorthorn Editor-in-Chief
“Winning this scholarship boosted my confidence toward my work here at The Shorthorn and my academics. Working at The Shorthorn has taught me how a newsroom environment works, how to be held accountable, and how to work as a team on a daily basis. It taught me to believe in myself and to pursue my dreams.”
—Caitlin Sherrill, 2018 Shorthorn Copy Desk Chief
“Paying for school has always been a source of anxiety for me. My Shorthorn scholarship gave me the confidence I needed to push through my last half of school and refocus my energy so I could graduate. It came at just the right time and really showed me that hard work really does pay off.”
—Christian Bruno, 2015-2018 Shorthorn Features and Social Media Editor
LEAVING A LASTING LEGACY
UTA’s Office of Gift and Estate Planning provides donors with several unique opportunities to leave a lasting legacy. Estate gifts, made through bequests in wills, in life insurance policies, or a number of other ways, help donors meet financial goals now while setting up success for future generations of UTA students.
“When preparing my will, I knew that I wanted to make donations to those organizations that gave me the foundation for my success, and UTA was at the top of the list. Personally, I want the University to continue its tradition of excellence well into the future, and I think a deferred gift will give it the resources to do that.”
—Greg Lozier (’96 MS, Accounting)
“Many positive things happen when the alumni base gives back. The community is enriched by taking advantage of the diverse offerings of athletic events, arts and educational programs, and impactful guest speakers and performances the University provides. Our hope is that students who receive our scholarship will always continue to pursue excellence in all they do and develop a spirit of giving back in their lives.”
—Scott Parsinen (’94 BA, Business)
GIVING IN RETURN
More than 325 graduating Mavericks demonstrated their affinity for UTA by purchasing special green cords as part of their commencement regalia. Each cord cost $20.18, an homage to the student’s graduating class, and funds raised from the sales went to support student scholarships. The senior class raised $6,750 as a part of the campaign.
