Forty Acres Scholars Class of 2021 Finalists Announced

The Forty Acres Scholars Program has announced an impressive list of 45 finalists for the Class of 2021. These high school seniors, who hail from four states outside of Texas—and of course from all over the Lone Star State—are exceptional inside and outside of the classroom. Among them are founders of companies and nonprofits, app developers, editors of school newspapers and literary journals, club presidents, team captains, varsity athletes, researchers, student pilots, and talented dancers and actors. This remarkable group of students will visit Austin on March 2-4 to interview for a spot as a Forty Acres Scholar—the premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship at The University of Texas at Austin. Learn more about this year's finalists below. Meet the finalists: Alicia Alvarez Houston, TX YES Prep - North Forest   Travis Arnold Spring, TX Klein High School Abhinav Ashar Cypress, TX  Cypress Woods High School Sabrina Benitez McAllen, TX McAllen Memorial High School Mary Margaret Burniston Kerrville, TX Tivy High School  Olivia Cardenas Houston, TX The High School for Performing & Visual Arts Anne Chow Austin, TX Westwood High School Alex Chukwuma Allen, TX Allen High School Ricky Cooks Wake Village, TX Texas High School Shanaya Cross Corpus Christi, TX W.B. Ray High School Carlyn Crow Austin, TX James Bowie High School Carrie Cruces Houston, TX Saint Agnes Academy Kevin Dalton Naperville, IL Naperville North High School Joshua De Anda El Paso, TX El Paso High School Ashley Deuster Houston, TX The Kinkaid School Alyssa Diaz Edinburg, TX Edinburg High School Zakiyya Ellington Allen, TX Allen High School Scott Gold Houston, TX Emery High School Morgan Grosch Spicewood, TX Cedar Park High School Shehryar Khursheed McAllen, Tx IDEA Quest College Preparatory  Min Kim Austin, TX Westwood High School Joe Levin Pacific Palisades, CA Harvard-Westlake School Desiree Lopez Rowlett, TX Garland High School Pierce Lowary Dallas, TX Highland Park High School   Faith Matheson Katy, TX Cinco Ranch High School   John McDonald Spring, TX Klein High School   Ronen Melloul Houston, TX Carnegie Vanguard High School   Yessmeen Moharram Plano, TX Plano Senior High School Cat Palacios Edinburg, TX Robert Vela High School Hannah Penley Houston, TX Clear Lake High School   Bhavana Penmetsa Plano, TX Imagine International Academy of North Texas Shilpa Rajagopal Irvine, CA Northwood High School Gabriel Ramirez McAllen, TX McAllen High School Margaret Rauch Downers Grove, IL Saint Ignatius College Preparatory School   Justin Rhines Canton, IL Bishop Thomas K. Gorman High School   Alejandra Rocha Brownsville, TX Saint Joseph Academy   Zach Rudner Dallas, TX Greenhill School Aman Sharma Portland, OR Westview High School Rylan Shewmaker Abilene, TX  Abilene High School Madison Smither New Orleans, LA Benjamin Franklin High School Maggie Stein Dallas, TX The Hockaday School Michelle Tang Houston, TX Bellaire Senior High School Olivia Vines Austin, TX L.C. Anderson High School   Annabelle Vu Houston, TX Jersey Village High School   Frank Yang Houston, TX Memorial Senior High School  

Forty Acres Scholars Class of 2021 Finalists Announced

The Forty Acres Scholars Program has announced an impressive list of 45 finalists for the Class of 2021. These high school seniors, who hail from four states outside of Texas—and of course from all over the Lone Star State—are exceptional inside and outside of the classroom. Among them are founders of companies and nonprofits, app developers, editors of school newspapers and literary journals, club presidents, team captains, varsity athletes, researchers, student pilots, and talented dancers and actors. This remarkable group of students will visit Austin on March 2-4 to interview for a spot as a Forty Acres Scholar—the premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship at The University of Texas at Austin. Learn more about this year's finalists below. Meet the finalists: Alicia Alvarez Houston, TX YES Prep - North Forest   Travis Arnold Spring, TX Klein High School Abhinav Ashar Cypress, TX  Cypress Woods High School Sabrina Benitez McAllen, TX McAllen Memorial High School Mary Margaret Burniston Kerrville, TX Tivy High School  Olivia Cardenas Houston, TX The High School for Performing & Visual Arts Anne Chow Austin, TX Westwood High School Alex Chukwuma Allen, TX Allen High School Ricky Cooks Wake Village, TX Texas High School Shanaya Cross Corpus Christi, TX W.B. Ray High School Carlyn Crow Austin, TX James Bowie High School Carrie Cruces Houston, TX Saint Agnes Academy Kevin Dalton Naperville, IL Naperville North High School Joshua De Anda El Paso, TX El Paso High School Ashley Deuster Houston, TX The Kinkaid School Alyssa Diaz Edinburg, TX Edinburg High School Zakiyya Ellington Allen, TX Allen High School Scott Gold Houston, TX Emery High School Morgan Grosch Spicewood, TX Cedar Park High School Shehryar Khursheed McAllen, Tx IDEA Quest College Preparatory  Min Kim Austin, TX Westwood High School Joe Levin Pacific Palisades, CA Harvard-Westlake School Desiree Lopez Rowlett, TX Garland High School Pierce Lowary Dallas, TX Highland Park High School   Faith Matheson Katy, TX Cinco Ranch High School   John McDonald Spring, TX Klein High School   Ronen Melloul Houston, TX Carnegie Vanguard High School   Yessmeen Moharram Plano, TX Plano Senior High School Cat Palacios Edinburg, TX Robert Vela High School Hannah Penley Houston, TX Clear Lake High School   Bhavana Penmetsa Plano, TX Imagine International Academy of North Texas Shilpa Rajagopal Irvine, CA Northwood High School Gabriel Ramirez McAllen, TX McAllen High School Margaret Rauch Downers Grove, IL Saint Ignatius College Preparatory School   Justin Rhines Canton, IL Bishop Thomas K. Gorman High School   Alejandra Rocha Brownsville, TX Saint Joseph Academy   Zach Rudner Dallas, TX Greenhill School Aman Sharma Portland, OR Westview High School Rylan Shewmaker Abilene, TX  Abilene High School Madison Smither New Orleans, LA Benjamin Franklin High School Maggie Stein Dallas, TX The Hockaday School Michelle Tang Houston, TX Bellaire Senior High School Olivia Vines Austin, TX L.C. Anderson High School   Annabelle Vu Houston, TX Jersey Village High School   Frank Yang Houston, TX Memorial Senior High School  

Forty Acres Scholars Class of 2021 Finalists Announced

The Forty Acres Scholars Program has announced an impressive list of 45 finalists for the Class of 2021. These high school seniors, who hail from four states outside of Texas—and of course from all over the Lone Star State—are exceptional inside and outside of the classroom. Among them are founders of companies and nonprofits, app developers, editors of school newspapers and literary journals, club presidents, team captains, varsity athletes, researchers, student pilots, and talented dancers and actors. This remarkable group of students will visit Austin on March 2-4 to interview for a spot as a Forty Acres Scholar—the premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship at The University of Texas at Austin. Learn more about this year's finalists below. Meet the finalists: Alicia Alvarez Houston, TX YES Prep - North Forest   Travis Arnold Spring, TX Klein High School Abhinav Ashar Cypress, TX  Cypress Woods High School Sabrina Benitez McAllen, TX McAllen Memorial High School Mary Margaret Burniston Kerrville, TX Tivy High School  Olivia Cardenas Houston, TX The High School for Performing & Visual Arts Anne Chow Austin, TX Westwood High School Alex Chukwuma Allen, TX Allen High School Ricky Cooks Wake Village, TX Texas High School Shanaya Cross Corpus Christi, TX W.B. Ray High School Carlyn Crow Austin, TX James Bowie High School Carrie Cruces Houston, TX Saint Agnes Academy Kevin Dalton Naperville, IL Naperville North High School Joshua De Anda El Paso, TX El Paso High School Ashley Deuster Houston, TX The Kinkaid School Alyssa Diaz Edinburg, TX Edinburg High School Zakiyya Ellington Allen, TX Allen High School Scott Gold Houston, TX Emery High School Morgan Grosch Spicewood, TX Cedar Park High School Shehryar Khursheed McAllen, Tx IDEA Quest College Preparatory  Min Kim Austin, TX Westwood High School Joe Levin Pacific Palisades, CA Harvard-Westlake School Desiree Lopez Rowlett, TX Garland High School Pierce Lowary Dallas, TX Highland Park High School   Faith Matheson Katy, TX Cinco Ranch High School   John McDonald Spring, TX Klein High School   Ronen Melloul Houston, TX Carnegie Vanguard High School   Yessmeen Moharram Plano, TX Plano Senior High School Cat Palacios Edinburg, TX Robert Vela High School Hannah Penley Houston, TX Clear Lake High School   Bhavana Penmetsa Plano, TX Imagine International Academy of North Texas Shilpa Rajagopal Irvine, CA Northwood High School Gabriel Ramirez McAllen, TX McAllen High School Margaret Rauch Downers Grove, IL Saint Ignatius College Preparatory School   Justin Rhines Canton, IL Bishop Thomas K. Gorman High School   Alejandra Rocha Brownsville, TX Saint Joseph Academy   Zach Rudner Dallas, TX Greenhill School Aman Sharma Portland, OR Westview High School Rylan Shewmaker Abilene, TX  Abilene High School Madison Smither New Orleans, LA Benjamin Franklin High School Maggie Stein Dallas, TX The Hockaday School Michelle Tang Houston, TX Bellaire Senior High School Olivia Vines Austin, TX L.C. Anderson High School   Annabelle Vu Houston, TX Jersey Village High School   Frank Yang Houston, TX Memorial Senior High School  

Meet the Forty Acres Scholars Program Class of 2020

The Texas Exes is pleased to announce the Forty Acres Scholars Program Class of 2020. More than 3,400 students applied for the University of Texas at Austin’s premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship, and 21 exceptional scholars were selected from a group of 58 finalists. The scholars range from musicians to athletes, and filmmakers to volunteers. Among the impressive class is a business owner, a professional mariachi, and a licensed radio host. Many more are student government leaders, varsity athletes, and newspaper editors. Administered by the Texas Exes, the Forty Acres Scholars Program offers a rich college experience that provides academic, leadership, and cultural opportunities within a close-knit cohort of fellow scholars. Funding provides for tuition, a living stipend, a book stipend, and an enrichment stipend for approved academic, leadership, professional and service activities. Throughout the four years, scholars benefit from a variety of programming opportunities and alumni connections. Meet the Class of 2020: Manjula Andukuri from Austin, Texas is the recipient of the Carol and Gary Kelly Forty Acres Scholarship. At Westwood High School, Andukuri was the president and founder of a club promoting civic engagement among high school students called Serving Our Society, a member of the varsity drill team, and the president of DECA, where she was a state finalist all four years. She was also a member of National Honor Society and a National Merit Scholar. After graduating as salutatorian, she plans to study chemical engineering honors in hopes of becoming a social entrepreneur. She is the daughter of Usha and Murthy Andukuri.       Cole Bennette from Houston, Texas is a recipient of the AIM Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. While attending Carnegie Vanguard High School, he was a varsity cross country runner, a Boy Scout senior patrol leader, and an editor for the school newspaper. He was also vice president of the DoSomething Club, an international volunteering organization. On the weekends, he likes to DJ and play the ukulele. At UT, he plans to major in architecture. He is the son of Shirley Taloff and Brian Bennette.         Will Clark from Dallas, Texas is the recipient of the Texas Exes Dallas Chapter Forty Acres Scholarship. At St. Mark's School, Clark was the managing editor of the school newspaper and winner of the Texas High School Journalist of the Year Award. He also placed second in the national competition for Journalist of the Year. In his spare time, he plays guitar in several bands that perform around Dallas. At UT, he will major in journalism. He is the son of Ellen and Ray Clark.             Alicia Crespin Moran from Pasadena, Texas is a recipient of the AIM Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. As valedictorian of Pasadena Memorial High School, she served as class president as well as on the Student Board of Directors for the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas Houston Branch. Moran was a member of multiple honor societies and clubs and was recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction. After living in El Salvador for nine years, she became passionate about community and social service, and is working on becoming trilingual in Italian. At UT, she plans to study business honors and finance. She is the daughter of Norma Moran De Crespin and Jose Crespin.       Siji Deleawe from Cedar Hill, Texas is the recipient of the George Kozmetsky Forty Acres Scholarship. As valedictorian of Cedar Hill Collegiate High School, Deleawe served as treasurer of student council, president of Youth Church Executive Council, head delegate for the Pan American Debate Team, and was an active volunteer. She was also a co-founder of both the Dress for Success Initiative for middle schoolers and the Rising Longhorns elementary mentoring program. At UT, she plans to double major in business honors and Plan II honors. She is the daughter of Agnes Deleawe and David Awe.         Ryan Diebner from Dallas, Texas is the recipient of the Ray and Denise Nixon Forty Acres Scholarship. While attending Greenhill School, Diebner was the captain of the varsity baseball and varsity volleyball teams, as well as a member of the varsity soccer team. Outside of sports, he was business manager on the school newspaper and a U.S. Presidential Scholar Nominee. He was named his school's Most Distinguished Math and Science Student, and worked as a private math tutor. At UT, he plans to study business honors. He is the son of Debbie and Jeff Diebner.           Skyler Frost from Morris Plains, New Jersey is the recipient of the Friends of Darrell K Royal Forty Acres Scholarship. At Morristown High School, Frost was the captain of the varsity soccer team, the executive sports producer for the school TV show, and a leader within Peer Group Connection, a mentoring program that helps freshmen, as well as special education students, transition to high school. He made a film that won first prize at the school's film festival, which was then inducted into the county's archives. As a licensed radio host, Frost announced high school sports games for three years. At UT, he will major in radio-television-film. He is the son of Audrey and Darren Frost.       Emily Gex from Houston, Texas is the recipient of the Karen and Charles Matthews, Jr. Forty Acres Scholarship. As co-valedictorian of Stratford High School, Gex was student body vice president and social chairman of the Spartanaire Dance Team. In addition to teaching children classical piano for four years, she founded an arts service company that teaches paint classes, called K&E Canvas Creations. Her artwork was chosen to be displayed at the Texas State Capitol. At UT, she plans to study business honors. She is the daughter of Michelle and Danny Gex.         Sophia Guirola from Dallas, Texas is the recipient of the Martin Dies, Jr. Forty Acres Scholarship. At Highland Park High School, Guirola was a National Hispanic Scholar and a volunteer with the Boys and Girls Club and Interfaith Housing Coalition, an organization that provides housing and job training for homeless families in the Dallas area. Before moving to Dallas in high school, she attended the American School of El Salvador, where she was president of the National Junior Honor Society and a student government leader. At UT, she plans to study international relations and global studies through liberal arts honors, as well as Latin American studies. She is the daughter of Camille and Jorge Guirola.       Clio Harralson from Austin, Texas is the recipient of the Susie and John L. Adams Forty Acres Scholarship. At L.C. Anderson High School, Harralson was the editor-in-chief of the yearbook, class president, and the treasurer of National Honor Society. She was also the co-founder of an anti-child trafficking club called Partners Against Child Trafficking, as well as a National Merit Finalist and a member of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program. In her spare time, Harralson created her own design business called Think Ink Designs. At UT, she will double major in business honors and Plan II honors. She is the daughter of Sue and Scott Harralson.       Holden Hopkins from Corpus Christi, Texas is the recipient of the Fred A. Gottesman Forty Acres Scholarship. While attending W.B. Ray High School, he was the captain of the Academic Decathlon, Challenge and Mock Trial, senior captain of the varsity football team, and the founder of a charity that collects shoes for donation called Sole Brothers. He was also a National Merit Scholar and a member of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program. After tearing his ACL and meniscus, he returned to playing football and was named Academic All-State Elite Offensive Lineman. At UT, he plans to study business honors and Plan II honors. He is the son of Jana and Josh Hopkins.         Lindsey Jacobe from Houston, Texas is the recipient of the John and Cynthia Adkins/Texas Exes Houston Chapter Forty Acres Scholarship. At The Kinkaid School, Jacobe was the editor-in-chief of the school yearbook, captain of the field hockey and lacrosse teams, and a Peer Mentor leader. She was a National Merit Commended Scholar and a member of the National Spanish Honors Society. Outside of school, she volunteered at a summer camp for children with mental and physical disabilities. At UT, she plans to double major in business honors and Plan II honors. She is the daughter of Marjorie and Lee Jacobe.         Scott Kennedy from Houston, Texas is the recipient of the Catherine G. and Sam L. Susser Forty Acres Scholarship. At Stratford High School, the co-valedictorian was the student body president, editor-in-chief of the school newspaper, and a National Merit Finalist. He was involved in his school district Improvement Team and was the co-chair of the district's Strategic Planning Committee. Kennedy also played football all four years and served as a homework mentor for elementary school children through Family Point Resources. At UT, he will study business honors. He is the son of Kimberly and Brian Kennedy.             McKenna Kernaghan from Austin, Texas is the recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship, supported by College of Education Advisory Council. At Hyde Park High School, Kernaghan was the founding member of the girls varsity golf team and the varsity volleyball MVP for two years. In addition to playing sports, she coached Special Olympics volleyball and golf. She was also co-founder and president of Christian Cousins Ministry, which helps the homeless and elderly. She wants to pursue a career as a physical therapist for athletes with disabilities by studying athletic training and Plan II honors at UT. She is the daughter of Tresa Rockwell.       Patrick Molina from Monte Alto, Texas is the recipient of the Stan L. McLelland Forty Acres Scholarship. As valedictorian of Edcouch-Elsa High School, he was the captain of the speech and debate team, a National Hispanic Merit Scholar, and his school's first AP Scholar with honors. He was also the lead violinist in the nationally ranked varsity mariachi and plays professionally as a mariachi outside of school. The self-proclaimed philosophy and comic book nerd plans to study geosystems engineering and hydrogeology at UT, with a certificate in public policy. He is the son of Juanita and Homer Molina.           Smitha Nagar from Pleasanton, California is the recipient of the Newton-Flawn Forty Acres Scholarship. While attending Amador Valley High School, Nagar was a National Merit Scholar, a member of the girls varsity golf team, and co-president of ACE Coding, a club that teaches young students programming skills. She was also the founder of an organization that helps middle school girls develop confidence and public speaking skills, called Speak Up. She discovered her love for research and the application of computer science to neuroscience while working as a research assistant at the University of California, San Francisco. At UT, she will major in computer science as a Turing Scholar. She is the daughter of Arathi and Niranjan Nagar.         Vikram Ramanathan from Austin, Texas is the recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship, supported by Cockrell School of Engineering and the Chevron Enrichment Award. While attending Westwood High School, he was the founder of a startup that designs and sells unique steel decor, a drummer in a rock and metal band, and the founder and president of the Westwood Society of Automotive Engineers, a club affiliated with the UT-Austin Society of Automotive Engineers. Before moving to Austin, he attended high school in India, where he helped underprivileged, rural villages establish new sources of income. At UT, he will study mechanical engineering honors. He is the son of Anuradha and Ram Ramanathan.       Emma Rappold from McKinney, Texas is the recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship, supported by Mark E. Reichek. At McKinney Boyd High School, Rappold was a National Merit Finalist, a producer of the school's broadcast news network, and participated in a mentor program where she studied filmmaking under a showrunner at AMS Pictures. She was also a student teacher and intern at a film acting studio called Young Actor's House. Rappold has recorded commercial voice-overs for Radio Disney since she was eight. At UT, she will major in radio-television-film as a Moody College of Communication Dean's Scholar. She is the daughter of Beth and Mike Rappold.         Lauren Smith from Houston, Texas is the recipient of the Mike A. Myers Forty Acres Scholarship and the Marilyn Marshall White Enrichment Award. At Saint John's School, she was the chair of the African American Affinity Group and captain of the cheer team, where she became a two-time NCA All-American Cheerleader. She also served as an English teacher for Breakthrough Houston School year program for three years and has been a longtime member of Girl Scouts of America. At UT, she plans to study public relations. She is the daughter of Teresa and Ronald Smith.             Jed Vick from Houston, Texas is the recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship, supported by Cammy and Del Williams. At Mirabeau B. Lamar Senior High School, he was the founder of a recycling program, the founder and president of the Young Engineers Club, and a National Merit Scholar. He was also a TFA state champion in Public Forum Debate and has tutored at the Nehemiah Neighborhood Center, an after school facility for economically disadvantaged kids, the past four years. At UT, he will double major in mechanical engineering honors and Plan II honors, and hopes to study abroad. He is the son of Jeanne Marie Vick and John Vick.         Jill Young from Santa Clarita, California is the recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship, supported by College of Fine Arts. At Saugus High School, she was captain of the comedy improv team, the president of the speech team, vice president of the National Honors Society, theatre president, co-president of her school's Gay-Straight Alliance, and a National Merit Finalist. She will bring her love of performing to UT to study acting. She is the daughter of Heidi and Bill Young.

Meet the Forty Acres Scholars Program Class of 2020

The Texas Exes is pleased to announce the Forty Acres Scholars Program Class of 2020. More than 3,400 students applied for the University of Texas at Austin’s premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship, and 21 exceptional scholars were selected from a group of 58 finalists. The scholars range from musicians to athletes, and filmmakers to volunteers. Among the impressive class is a business owner, a professional mariachi, and a licensed radio host. Many more are student government leaders, varsity athletes, and newspaper editors. Administered by the Texas Exes, the Forty Acres Scholars Program offers a rich college experience that provides academic, leadership, and cultural opportunities within a close-knit cohort of fellow scholars. Funding provides for tuition, a living stipend, a book stipend, and an enrichment stipend for approved academic, leadership, professional and service activities. Throughout the four years, scholars benefit from a variety of programming opportunities and alumni connections. Meet the Class of 2020: Manjula Andukuri from Austin, Texas is the recipient of the Carol and Gary Kelly Forty Acres Scholarship. At Westwood High School, Andukuri was the president and founder of a club promoting civic engagement among high school students called Serving Our Society, a member of the varsity drill team, and the president of DECA, where she was a state finalist all four years. She was also a member of National Honor Society and a National Merit Scholar. After graduating as salutatorian, she plans to study chemical engineering honors in hopes of becoming a social entrepreneur. She is the daughter of Usha and Murthy Andukuri.       Cole Bennette from Houston, Texas is a recipient of the AIM Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. While attending Carnegie Vanguard High School, he was a varsity cross country runner, a Boy Scout senior patrol leader, and an editor for the school newspaper. He was also vice president of the DoSomething Club, an international volunteering organization. On the weekends, he likes to DJ and play the ukulele. At UT, he plans to major in architecture. He is the son of Shirley Taloff and Brian Bennette.         Will Clark from Dallas, Texas is the recipient of the Texas Exes Dallas Chapter Forty Acres Scholarship. At St. Mark's School, Clark was the managing editor of the school newspaper and winner of the Texas High School Journalist of the Year Award. He also placed second in the national competition for Journalist of the Year. In his spare time, he plays guitar in several bands that perform around Dallas. At UT, he will major in journalism. He is the son of Ellen and Ray Clark.             Alicia Crespin Moran from Pasadena, Texas is a recipient of the AIM Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. As valedictorian of Pasadena Memorial High School, she served as class president as well as on the Student Board of Directors for the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas Houston Branch. Moran was a member of multiple honor societies and clubs and was recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction. After living in El Salvador for nine years, she became passionate about community and social service, and is working on becoming trilingual in Italian. At UT, she plans to study business honors and finance. She is the daughter of Norma Moran De Crespin and Jose Crespin.       Siji Deleawe from Cedar Hill, Texas is the recipient of the George Kozmetsky Forty Acres Scholarship. As valedictorian of Cedar Hill Collegiate High School, Deleawe served as treasurer of student council, president of Youth Church Executive Council, head delegate for the Pan American Debate Team, and was an active volunteer. She was also a co-founder of both the Dress for Success Initiative for middle schoolers and the Rising Longhorns elementary mentoring program. At UT, she plans to double major in business honors and Plan II honors. She is the daughter of Agnes Deleawe and David Awe.         Ryan Diebner from Dallas, Texas is the recipient of the Ray and Denise Nixon Forty Acres Scholarship. While attending Greenhill School, Diebner was the captain of the varsity baseball and varsity volleyball teams, as well as a member of the varsity soccer team. Outside of sports, he was business manager on the school newspaper and a U.S. Presidential Scholar Nominee. He was named his school's Most Distinguished Math and Science Student, and worked as a private math tutor. At UT, he plans to study business honors. He is the son of Debbie and Jeff Diebner.           Skyler Frost from Morris Plains, New Jersey is the recipient of the Friends of Darrell K Royal Forty Acres Scholarship. At Morristown High School, Frost was the captain of the varsity soccer team, the executive sports producer for the school TV show, and a leader within Peer Group Connection, a mentoring program that helps freshmen, as well as special education students, transition to high school. He made a film that won first prize at the school's film festival, which was then inducted into the county's archives. As a licensed radio host, Frost announced high school sports games for three years. At UT, he will major in radio-television-film. He is the son of Audrey and Darren Frost.       Emily Gex from Houston, Texas is the recipient of the Karen and Charles Matthews, Jr. Forty Acres Scholarship. As co-valedictorian of Stratford High School, Gex was student body vice president and social chairman of the Spartanaire Dance Team. In addition to teaching children classical piano for four years, she founded an arts service company that teaches paint classes, called K&E Canvas Creations. Her artwork was chosen to be displayed at the Texas State Capitol. At UT, she plans to study business honors. She is the daughter of Michelle and Danny Gex.         Sophia Guirola from Dallas, Texas is the recipient of the Martin Dies, Jr. Forty Acres Scholarship. At Highland Park High School, Guirola was a National Hispanic Scholar and a volunteer with the Boys and Girls Club and Interfaith Housing Coalition, an organization that provides housing and job training for homeless families in the Dallas area. Before moving to Dallas in high school, she attended the American School of El Salvador, where she was president of the National Junior Honor Society and a student government leader. At UT, she plans to study international relations and global studies through liberal arts honors, as well as Latin American studies. She is the daughter of Camille and Jorge Guirola.       Clio Harralson from Austin, Texas is the recipient of the Susie and John L. Adams Forty Acres Scholarship. At L.C. Anderson High School, Harralson was the editor-in-chief of the yearbook, class president, and the treasurer of National Honor Society. She was also the co-founder of an anti-child trafficking club called Partners Against Child Trafficking, as well as a National Merit Finalist and a member of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program. In her spare time, Harralson created her own design business called Think Ink Designs. At UT, she will double major in business honors and Plan II honors. She is the daughter of Sue and Scott Harralson.       Holden Hopkins from Corpus Christi, Texas is the recipient of the Fred A. Gottesman Forty Acres Scholarship. While attending W.B. Ray High School, he was the captain of the Academic Decathlon, Challenge and Mock Trial, senior captain of the varsity football team, and the founder of a charity that collects shoes for donation called Sole Brothers. He was also a National Merit Scholar and a member of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program. After tearing his ACL and meniscus, he returned to playing football and was named Academic All-State Elite Offensive Lineman. At UT, he plans to study business honors and Plan II honors. He is the son of Jana and Josh Hopkins.         Lindsey Jacobe from Houston, Texas is the recipient of the John and Cynthia Adkins/Texas Exes Houston Chapter Forty Acres Scholarship. At The Kinkaid School, Jacobe was the editor-in-chief of the school yearbook, captain of the field hockey and lacrosse teams, and a Peer Mentor leader. She was a National Merit Commended Scholar and a member of the National Spanish Honors Society. Outside of school, she volunteered at a summer camp for children with mental and physical disabilities. At UT, she plans to double major in business honors and Plan II honors. She is the daughter of Marjorie and Lee Jacobe.         Scott Kennedy from Houston, Texas is the recipient of the Catherine G. and Sam L. Susser Forty Acres Scholarship. At Stratford High School, the co-valedictorian was the student body president, editor-in-chief of the school newspaper, and a National Merit Finalist. He was involved in his school district Improvement Team and was the co-chair of the district's Strategic Planning Committee. Kennedy also played football all four years and served as a homework mentor for elementary school children through Family Point Resources. At UT, he will study business honors. He is the son of Kimberly and Brian Kennedy.             McKenna Kernaghan from Austin, Texas is the recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship, supported by College of Education Advisory Council. At Hyde Park High School, Kernaghan was the founding member of the girls varsity golf team and the varsity volleyball MVP for two years. In addition to playing sports, she coached Special Olympics volleyball and golf. She was also co-founder and president of Christian Cousins Ministry, which helps the homeless and elderly. She wants to pursue a career as a physical therapist for athletes with disabilities by studying athletic training and Plan II honors at UT. She is the daughter of Tresa Rockwell.       Patrick Molina from Monte Alto, Texas is the recipient of the Stan L. McLelland Forty Acres Scholarship. As valedictorian of Edcouch-Elsa High School, he was the captain of the speech and debate team, a National Hispanic Merit Scholar, and his school's first AP Scholar with honors. He was also the lead violinist in the nationally ranked varsity mariachi and plays professionally as a mariachi outside of school. The self-proclaimed philosophy and comic book nerd plans to study geosystems engineering and hydrogeology at UT, with a certificate in public policy. He is the son of Juanita and Homer Molina.           Smitha Nagar from Pleasanton, California is the recipient of the Newton-Flawn Forty Acres Scholarship. While attending Amador Valley High School, Nagar was a National Merit Scholar, a member of the girls varsity golf team, and co-president of ACE Coding, a club that teaches young students programming skills. She was also the founder of an organization that helps middle school girls develop confidence and public speaking skills, called Speak Up. She discovered her love for research and the application of computer science to neuroscience while working as a research assistant at the University of California, San Francisco. At UT, she will major in computer science as a Turing Scholar. She is the daughter of Arathi and Niranjan Nagar.         Vikram Ramanathan from Austin, Texas is the recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship, supported by Cockrell School of Engineering and the Chevron Enrichment Award. While attending Westwood High School, he was the founder of a startup that designs and sells unique steel decor, a drummer in a rock and metal band, and the founder and president of the Westwood Society of Automotive Engineers, a club affiliated with the UT-Austin Society of Automotive Engineers. Before moving to Austin, he attended high school in India, where he helped underprivileged, rural villages establish new sources of income. At UT, he will study mechanical engineering honors. He is the son of Anuradha and Ram Ramanathan.       Emma Rappold from McKinney, Texas is the recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship, supported by Mark E. Reichek. At McKinney Boyd High School, Rappold was a National Merit Finalist, a producer of the school's broadcast news network, and participated in a mentor program where she studied filmmaking under a showrunner at AMS Pictures. She was also a student teacher and intern at a film acting studio called Young Actor's House. Rappold has recorded commercial voice-overs for Radio Disney since she was eight. At UT, she will major in radio-television-film as a Moody College of Communication Dean's Scholar. She is the daughter of Beth and Mike Rappold.         Lauren Smith from Houston, Texas is the recipient of the Mike A. Myers Forty Acres Scholarship and the Marilyn Marshall White Enrichment Award. At Saint John's School, she was the chair of the African American Affinity Group and captain of the cheer team, where she became a two-time NCA All-American Cheerleader. She also served as an English teacher for Breakthrough Houston School year program for three years and has been a longtime member of Girl Scouts of America. At UT, she plans to study public relations. She is the daughter of Teresa and Ronald Smith.             Jed Vick from Houston, Texas is the recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship, supported by Cammy and Del Williams. At Mirabeau B. Lamar Senior High School, he was the founder of a recycling program, the founder and president of the Young Engineers Club, and a National Merit Scholar. He was also a TFA state champion in Public Forum Debate and has tutored at the Nehemiah Neighborhood Center, an after school facility for economically disadvantaged kids, the past four years. At UT, he will double major in mechanical engineering honors and Plan II honors, and hopes to study abroad. He is the son of Jeanne Marie Vick and John Vick.         Jill Young from Santa Clarita, California is the recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship, supported by College of Fine Arts. At Saugus High School, she was captain of the comedy improv team, the president of the speech team, vice president of the National Honors Society, theatre president, co-president of her school's Gay-Straight Alliance, and a National Merit Finalist. She will bring her love of performing to UT to study acting. She is the daughter of Heidi and Bill Young.

The Wizarding World of Giancarlo Bernini

Getting to know a magical Forty Acres Scholar The résumés of super-achieving high school students often look the same. But Giancarlo Bernini, a recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship supported by Nolan Perez, always stood out in his hometown of Mission, Texas. At 19, Bernini, Class of 2019, is a professional magician, poet, amateur hypnotist, and a serious collector of Harry Potter movie-prop replicas. We sat down during his second week of classes at UT, where he is majoring in radio-television-film. What is it like coming from Mission to Austin? Mission is a relatively small city, so the university and beyond is a little overwhelming. I’m trying to remember that old adage: “You can’t make a small university big, but you can make a big university small.”  I’ve been meeting a lot of people and finding my way around but it’s definitely a big change. Was there a moment when you realized that your life had changed? Well it’s the silliest thing, but I realized I have to do laundry now. Also there’s a Wendy’s right across the street from Moore-Hill [my dorm]. I have to constantly remind myself: Just because it’s right there doesn’t mean you have to go there. I’m struggling with that! It’s all symbolizing the fact that I’m in control right now. I’m an adult. You are majoring in RTF; what’s your dream career? I’d like to go into directing or editing. What kind of movies do you want to make? I want to make family movies, comedies, and possibly documentaries. I’m a big fan ofHarry Potter and other huge fandom movies. I think book adaptations is where I’ll find my niche. You are the vice president of the International Brotherhood of Magicians Ring 269. How did you first get interested in magic? My dad showed me a card trick when I was about 10 years old and I fell in love with the idea of putting a little spark of weird into a person’s day. For a moment there they are like, “What just happened?” My dad works as an oncologist at a children’s cancer clinic in McAllen, and I would do magic tricks for the patients in the lobby. That’s how I got my practice, and I got to really experience the power that magic has. These kids were going through chemotherapy. They were tired and really struggling. Obviously it’s not the most pleasant place in the world, but magic brought a smile to their faces. That’s when I realized it wasn’t just a cool hobby—magic is something that can impact people and brighten their day. Who was your favorite teacher in high school? There was one teacher who made a huge difference in my life—Mr. Martinez, my senior English teacher. He was very focused on the spiritual part of growing up and helping teenagers find their way. He emphasized the importance of loving other people and spreading joy and peace. That was a big thing he always said: “Don’t look for happiness, look for peace.” What do you think of the Forty Acres Scholars Program so far? The program has been absolutely incredible. It’s only the second week of school, and the opportunities presented to me have been phenomenal. There’s a calendar of events, and I can’t wait to attend everything. How did you learn about FASP? A college-admissions counselor told me that I should look into it. I wasn’t expecting much, but I just said, “Oh well, I’ll give it a shot and see what happens.” Then I made the semifinals, and I was like, wow, this could actually happen. Then when I went to Finalist Weekend and I got the call I was blown away. UT had always been one of my top schools—close to home and obviously one of the best in the country. [caption id="attachment_4817" align="alignleft" width="329"] GIANCARLO BERNINI DEFIES GRAVITY IN HIS DORMITORY HALLWAY.[/caption] I understand you have started dabbling in hypnosis. Tell us about that. I went to see a staged hypnotist’s show one time and I saw people fall into a trance; it was weird. After the show, I went up to him and he told me that it’s just psychology, not magic or witchcraft or anything like that. He recommended a few books and videos, and I started reading. It’s relaxing your body into a state where you are kind of half-asleep and half-awake, but you are in control the whole time. I don’t like to talk about it too much because people tend to think it’s creepy and scary, but it’s really not. It’s entertainment. Your bio says that you’re an avid collector of Harry Potter memorabilia. Oh yes. I have this little corner in my dorm filled with my Harry Potter collection. I collect prop replicas from the films. I have a lot of the wands, the sword of Gryffindor, sorting hats, movie posters. Harry Potter is actually the reason I got into RTF. I had the DVD set, and after a while I realized I was spending more time watching the behind-the-scenes footage and commentary from the directors than I was the actual movies. How does your roommate feel about your collection? He likes it. He’s obviously not as big of a fan as I am, but he likes it. If you were going to be sorted into a house at Hogwarts, which house would it be? Oh wow. [Takes a deep breath.] I like to think of myself as a Gryffindor. I’m a Gryffindor at heart—I know I’m a Gryffindor. But all my friends are quick to point out that on Pottermore, J.K. Rowling’s official website, I was sorted into Hufflepuff. And I’m not too pleased with that. What do you hope to take away from this scholarship program? When I first heard about the enrichment funds and everything else the scholarship has to offer, I told myself I would take advantage of every opportunity. I have four years to figure out what I want to do with my life with the scholarship backing me up. Four years from now, hopefully I’ll be working my way up in the world of film. The scholarship is giving me the foundation I’ll need. Photos by Anna Donlan.

The Wizarding World of Giancarlo Bernini

Getting to know a magical Forty Acres Scholar The résumés of super-achieving high school students often look the same. But Giancarlo Bernini, a recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship supported by Nolan Perez, always stood out in his hometown of Mission, Texas. At 19, Bernini, Class of 2019, is a professional magician, poet, amateur hypnotist, and a serious collector of Harry Potter movie-prop replicas. We sat down during his second week of classes at UT, where he is majoring in radio-television-film. What is it like coming from Mission to Austin? Mission is a relatively small city, so the university and beyond is a little overwhelming. I’m trying to remember that old adage: “You can’t make a small university big, but you can make a big university small.”  I’ve been meeting a lot of people and finding my way around but it’s definitely a big change. Was there a moment when you realized that your life had changed? Well it’s the silliest thing, but I realized I have to do laundry now. Also there’s a Wendy’s right across the street from Moore-Hill [my dorm]. I have to constantly remind myself: Just because it’s right there doesn’t mean you have to go there. I’m struggling with that! It’s all symbolizing the fact that I’m in control right now. I’m an adult. You are majoring in RTF; what’s your dream career? I’d like to go into directing or editing. What kind of movies do you want to make? I want to make family movies, comedies, and possibly documentaries. I’m a big fan ofHarry Potter and other huge fandom movies. I think book adaptations is where I’ll find my niche. You are the vice president of the International Brotherhood of Magicians Ring 269. How did you first get interested in magic? My dad showed me a card trick when I was about 10 years old and I fell in love with the idea of putting a little spark of weird into a person’s day. For a moment there they are like, “What just happened?” My dad works as an oncologist at a children’s cancer clinic in McAllen, and I would do magic tricks for the patients in the lobby. That’s how I got my practice, and I got to really experience the power that magic has. These kids were going through chemotherapy. They were tired and really struggling. Obviously it’s not the most pleasant place in the world, but magic brought a smile to their faces. That’s when I realized it wasn’t just a cool hobby—magic is something that can impact people and brighten their day. Who was your favorite teacher in high school? There was one teacher who made a huge difference in my life—Mr. Martinez, my senior English teacher. He was very focused on the spiritual part of growing up and helping teenagers find their way. He emphasized the importance of loving other people and spreading joy and peace. That was a big thing he always said: “Don’t look for happiness, look for peace.” What do you think of the Forty Acres Scholars Program so far? The program has been absolutely incredible. It’s only the second week of school, and the opportunities presented to me have been phenomenal. There’s a calendar of events, and I can’t wait to attend everything. How did you learn about FASP? A college-admissions counselor told me that I should look into it. I wasn’t expecting much, but I just said, “Oh well, I’ll give it a shot and see what happens.” Then I made the semifinals, and I was like, wow, this could actually happen. Then when I went to Finalist Weekend and I got the call I was blown away. UT had always been one of my top schools—close to home and obviously one of the best in the country. [caption id="attachment_4817" align="alignleft" width="329"] GIANCARLO BERNINI DEFIES GRAVITY IN HIS DORMITORY HALLWAY.[/caption] I understand you have started dabbling in hypnosis. Tell us about that. I went to see a staged hypnotist’s show one time and I saw people fall into a trance; it was weird. After the show, I went up to him and he told me that it’s just psychology, not magic or witchcraft or anything like that. He recommended a few books and videos, and I started reading. It’s relaxing your body into a state where you are kind of half-asleep and half-awake, but you are in control the whole time. I don’t like to talk about it too much because people tend to think it’s creepy and scary, but it’s really not. It’s entertainment. Your bio says that you’re an avid collector of Harry Potter memorabilia. Oh yes. I have this little corner in my dorm filled with my Harry Potter collection. I collect prop replicas from the films. I have a lot of the wands, the sword of Gryffindor, sorting hats, movie posters. Harry Potter is actually the reason I got into RTF. I had the DVD set, and after a while I realized I was spending more time watching the behind-the-scenes footage and commentary from the directors than I was the actual movies. How does your roommate feel about your collection? He likes it. He’s obviously not as big of a fan as I am, but he likes it. If you were going to be sorted into a house at Hogwarts, which house would it be? Oh wow. [Takes a deep breath.] I like to think of myself as a Gryffindor. I’m a Gryffindor at heart—I know I’m a Gryffindor. But all my friends are quick to point out that on Pottermore, J.K. Rowling’s official website, I was sorted into Hufflepuff. And I’m not too pleased with that. What do you hope to take away from this scholarship program? When I first heard about the enrichment funds and everything else the scholarship has to offer, I told myself I would take advantage of every opportunity. I have four years to figure out what I want to do with my life with the scholarship backing me up. Four years from now, hopefully I’ll be working my way up in the world of film. The scholarship is giving me the foundation I’ll need. Photos by Anna Donlan.

The Wizarding World of Giancarlo Bernini

Getting to know a magical Forty Acres Scholar The résumés of super-achieving high school students often look the same. But Giancarlo Bernini, a recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship supported by Nolan Perez, always stood out in his hometown of Mission, Texas. At 19, Bernini, Class of 2019, is a professional magician, poet, amateur hypnotist, and a serious collector of Harry Potter movie-prop replicas. We sat down during his second week of classes at UT, where he is majoring in radio-television-film. What is it like coming from Mission to Austin? Mission is a relatively small city, so the university and beyond is a little overwhelming. I’m trying to remember that old adage: “You can’t make a small university big, but you can make a big university small.”  I’ve been meeting a lot of people and finding my way around but it’s definitely a big change. Was there a moment when you realized that your life had changed? Well it’s the silliest thing, but I realized I have to do laundry now. Also there’s a Wendy’s right across the street from Moore-Hill [my dorm]. I have to constantly remind myself: Just because it’s right there doesn’t mean you have to go there. I’m struggling with that! It’s all symbolizing the fact that I’m in control right now. I’m an adult. You are majoring in RTF; what’s your dream career? I’d like to go into directing or editing. What kind of movies do you want to make? I want to make family movies, comedies, and possibly documentaries. I’m a big fan ofHarry Potter and other huge fandom movies. I think book adaptations is where I’ll find my niche. You are the vice president of the International Brotherhood of Magicians Ring 269. How did you first get interested in magic? My dad showed me a card trick when I was about 10 years old and I fell in love with the idea of putting a little spark of weird into a person’s day. For a moment there they are like, “What just happened?” My dad works as an oncologist at a children’s cancer clinic in McAllen, and I would do magic tricks for the patients in the lobby. That’s how I got my practice, and I got to really experience the power that magic has. These kids were going through chemotherapy. They were tired and really struggling. Obviously it’s not the most pleasant place in the world, but magic brought a smile to their faces. That’s when I realized it wasn’t just a cool hobby—magic is something that can impact people and brighten their day. Who was your favorite teacher in high school? There was one teacher who made a huge difference in my life—Mr. Martinez, my senior English teacher. He was very focused on the spiritual part of growing up and helping teenagers find their way. He emphasized the importance of loving other people and spreading joy and peace. That was a big thing he always said: “Don’t look for happiness, look for peace.” What do you think of the Forty Acres Scholars Program so far? The program has been absolutely incredible. It’s only the second week of school, and the opportunities presented to me have been phenomenal. There’s a calendar of events, and I can’t wait to attend everything. How did you learn about FASP? A college-admissions counselor told me that I should look into it. I wasn’t expecting much, but I just said, “Oh well, I’ll give it a shot and see what happens.” Then I made the semifinals, and I was like, wow, this could actually happen. Then when I went to Finalist Weekend and I got the call I was blown away. UT had always been one of my top schools—close to home and obviously one of the best in the country. [caption id="attachment_4817" align="alignleft" width="329"] GIANCARLO BERNINI DEFIES GRAVITY IN HIS DORMITORY HALLWAY.[/caption] I understand you have started dabbling in hypnosis. Tell us about that. I went to see a staged hypnotist’s show one time and I saw people fall into a trance; it was weird. After the show, I went up to him and he told me that it’s just psychology, not magic or witchcraft or anything like that. He recommended a few books and videos, and I started reading. It’s relaxing your body into a state where you are kind of half-asleep and half-awake, but you are in control the whole time. I don’t like to talk about it too much because people tend to think it’s creepy and scary, but it’s really not. It’s entertainment. Your bio says that you’re an avid collector of Harry Potter memorabilia. Oh yes. I have this little corner in my dorm filled with my Harry Potter collection. I collect prop replicas from the films. I have a lot of the wands, the sword of Gryffindor, sorting hats, movie posters. Harry Potter is actually the reason I got into RTF. I had the DVD set, and after a while I realized I was spending more time watching the behind-the-scenes footage and commentary from the directors than I was the actual movies. How does your roommate feel about your collection? He likes it. He’s obviously not as big of a fan as I am, but he likes it. If you were going to be sorted into a house at Hogwarts, which house would it be? Oh wow. [Takes a deep breath.] I like to think of myself as a Gryffindor. I’m a Gryffindor at heart—I know I’m a Gryffindor. But all my friends are quick to point out that on Pottermore, J.K. Rowling’s official website, I was sorted into Hufflepuff. And I’m not too pleased with that. What do you hope to take away from this scholarship program? When I first heard about the enrichment funds and everything else the scholarship has to offer, I told myself I would take advantage of every opportunity. I have four years to figure out what I want to do with my life with the scholarship backing me up. Four years from now, hopefully I’ll be working my way up in the world of film. The scholarship is giving me the foundation I’ll need. Photos by Anna Donlan.

"This Program Hasn't Just Blessed My Life": Marisa Swanson Reflects on Her Cohort's Four Years

Marisa Swanson is a UT senior studying social work and Plan II and the recipient of the Tom and Sally Dunning Forty Acres Scholarship. Swanson was a featured speaker at this year’s Texas Exes Dallas Chapter Scholarship Dinner at the Belo Mansion. The following is a transcript of her remarks. Good evening. I am delighted to have the opportunity to speak here tonight. I was lucky enough to speak at this exact same dinner three years ago, when I was just a freshman. Looking back, it’s crazy to think how much in my life has changed since then! I’ve interned with a nonprofit in Dallas, studied the foundations of social work abroad in London, and made connections with inspiring UT faculty members and alumni. I don’t know many 21-year-olds who can say they’ve shaken hands with Laura Bush, Admiral McRaven, Robert Rodriguez AND Matthew McConaughey, but I’m proud to be one of them - and it is all thanks to the Forty Acres Scholars Program. But this program hasn’t just blessed my life; it has aided my entire cohort in seeing our true potential and achieving our dreams. My cohort, composed of 14 amazing individuals, is one of the most diverse, hard-working, and talented group of young men and women that you could ever hope to meet. It would be impossible for me to go into enough detail to describe all of the fantastic feats my fellow cohort members have accomplished - but I’m going to try. This cohort takes academics seriously, with an overall average GPA of 3.8. Various members have been involved in research on campus, some working on the same projects for multiple semesters or years. One of our members, Arjun Rawal, will be traveling to Washington D.C. next semester to take part in the Archer Fellows Program, and many of us have studied abroad in countries such as England, Italy, Argentina, Egypt, Australia, and Botswana, proving that our influence expands far beyond the UT campus. We like extracurriculars. A lot. Seven of our 14 members have either founded or served as the President for one or more organizations on campus. Two students were recently inducted in the prestigious (and highly secretive) Friar Society. We have both one Orange Jacket and one Texas Blazer, and four of our members have been or are currently involved in the student government system. We have members in dance clubs, in environmental groups, in fashion clubs. We have members who have served as mentors at Honors Colloquium and at Camp Texas. We have members like Amy Enrione, who literally changed the criteria of the Freshman Interest Group model (or FIG) so that it now includes a mandatory service component. We have, to put it simply, a group of rockstars. The most exciting aspect of my cohort is that our adventures and accomplishments will not end next May. Already, we have begun planning our next steps. Some of us will remain at UT a little while longer to finish up degree plans and make one last powerful impact on campus. Some, like myself, will go onto graduate school or medical school (although I suppose I have to get into grad school first). Some will be entering the “real world”, like Cole Paxson, who will be working as a petroleum engineer for Anadarko Petroleum, or Caroline Meyerson, who received a job offer to work in New York in L’Oreal’s Management Development Program. Although we will be going our separate ways, it is safe to say we will remain connected for the rest of our lives thanks to this program, and can forever look to one another for support, inspiration, and friendship. The Forty Acres Scholars Program is doing exactly what it is meant to be doing - bringing the best and the brightest high school students to UT Austin, and offering them the chance to utilize their minds and skillsets at a premiere university nestled in the heart of Texas. I want to sincerely thank you all for your continued support of myself, my cohort, and this program. We wouldn’t be where we are without you. Thank you, and Hook ‘Em!   Marisa Swanson at the Texas Exes Dallas Chapter Scholarship Dinner with her parents. Photo courtesy of Marisa Swanson.

"This Program Hasn't Just Blessed My Life": Marisa Swanson Reflects on Her Cohort's Four Years

Marisa Swanson is a UT senior studying social work and Plan II and the recipient of the Tom and Sally Dunning Forty Acres Scholarship. Swanson was a featured speaker at this year’s Texas Exes Dallas Chapter Scholarship Dinner at the Belo Mansion. The following is a transcript of her remarks. Good evening. I am delighted to have the opportunity to speak here tonight. I was lucky enough to speak at this exact same dinner three years ago, when I was just a freshman. Looking back, it’s crazy to think how much in my life has changed since then! I’ve interned with a nonprofit in Dallas, studied the foundations of social work abroad in London, and made connections with inspiring UT faculty members and alumni. I don’t know many 21-year-olds who can say they’ve shaken hands with Laura Bush, Admiral McRaven, Robert Rodriguez AND Matthew McConaughey, but I’m proud to be one of them - and it is all thanks to the Forty Acres Scholars Program. But this program hasn’t just blessed my life; it has aided my entire cohort in seeing our true potential and achieving our dreams. My cohort, composed of 14 amazing individuals, is one of the most diverse, hard-working, and talented group of young men and women that you could ever hope to meet. It would be impossible for me to go into enough detail to describe all of the fantastic feats my fellow cohort members have accomplished - but I’m going to try. This cohort takes academics seriously, with an overall average GPA of 3.8. Various members have been involved in research on campus, some working on the same projects for multiple semesters or years. One of our members, Arjun Rawal, will be traveling to Washington D.C. next semester to take part in the Archer Fellows Program, and many of us have studied abroad in countries such as England, Italy, Argentina, Egypt, Australia, and Botswana, proving that our influence expands far beyond the UT campus. We like extracurriculars. A lot. Seven of our 14 members have either founded or served as the President for one or more organizations on campus. Two students were recently inducted in the prestigious (and highly secretive) Friar Society. We have both one Orange Jacket and one Texas Blazer, and four of our members have been or are currently involved in the student government system. We have members in dance clubs, in environmental groups, in fashion clubs. We have members who have served as mentors at Honors Colloquium and at Camp Texas. We have members like Amy Enrione, who literally changed the criteria of the Freshman Interest Group model (or FIG) so that it now includes a mandatory service component. We have, to put it simply, a group of rockstars. The most exciting aspect of my cohort is that our adventures and accomplishments will not end next May. Already, we have begun planning our next steps. Some of us will remain at UT a little while longer to finish up degree plans and make one last powerful impact on campus. Some, like myself, will go onto graduate school or medical school (although I suppose I have to get into grad school first). Some will be entering the “real world”, like Cole Paxson, who will be working as a petroleum engineer for Anadarko Petroleum, or Caroline Meyerson, who received a job offer to work in New York in L’Oreal’s Management Development Program. Although we will be going our separate ways, it is safe to say we will remain connected for the rest of our lives thanks to this program, and can forever look to one another for support, inspiration, and friendship. The Forty Acres Scholars Program is doing exactly what it is meant to be doing - bringing the best and the brightest high school students to UT Austin, and offering them the chance to utilize their minds and skillsets at a premiere university nestled in the heart of Texas. I want to sincerely thank you all for your continued support of myself, my cohort, and this program. We wouldn’t be where we are without you. Thank you, and Hook ‘Em!   Marisa Swanson at the Texas Exes Dallas Chapter Scholarship Dinner with her parents. Photo courtesy of Marisa Swanson.

"This Program Hasn't Just Blessed My Life": Marisa Swanson Reflects on Her Cohort's Four Years

Marisa Swanson is a UT senior studying social work and Plan II and the recipient of the Tom and Sally Dunning Forty Acres Scholarship. Swanson was a featured speaker at this year’s Texas Exes Dallas Chapter Scholarship Dinner at the Belo Mansion. The following is a transcript of her remarks. Good evening. I am delighted to have the opportunity to speak here tonight. I was lucky enough to speak at this exact same dinner three years ago, when I was just a freshman. Looking back, it’s crazy to think how much in my life has changed since then! I’ve interned with a nonprofit in Dallas, studied the foundations of social work abroad in London, and made connections with inspiring UT faculty members and alumni. I don’t know many 21-year-olds who can say they’ve shaken hands with Laura Bush, Admiral McRaven, Robert Rodriguez AND Matthew McConaughey, but I’m proud to be one of them - and it is all thanks to the Forty Acres Scholars Program. But this program hasn’t just blessed my life; it has aided my entire cohort in seeing our true potential and achieving our dreams. My cohort, composed of 14 amazing individuals, is one of the most diverse, hard-working, and talented group of young men and women that you could ever hope to meet. It would be impossible for me to go into enough detail to describe all of the fantastic feats my fellow cohort members have accomplished - but I’m going to try. This cohort takes academics seriously, with an overall average GPA of 3.8. Various members have been involved in research on campus, some working on the same projects for multiple semesters or years. One of our members, Arjun Rawal, will be traveling to Washington D.C. next semester to take part in the Archer Fellows Program, and many of us have studied abroad in countries such as England, Italy, Argentina, Egypt, Australia, and Botswana, proving that our influence expands far beyond the UT campus. We like extracurriculars. A lot. Seven of our 14 members have either founded or served as the President for one or more organizations on campus. Two students were recently inducted in the prestigious (and highly secretive) Friar Society. We have both one Orange Jacket and one Texas Blazer, and four of our members have been or are currently involved in the student government system. We have members in dance clubs, in environmental groups, in fashion clubs. We have members who have served as mentors at Honors Colloquium and at Camp Texas. We have members like Amy Enrione, who literally changed the criteria of the Freshman Interest Group model (or FIG) so that it now includes a mandatory service component. We have, to put it simply, a group of rockstars. The most exciting aspect of my cohort is that our adventures and accomplishments will not end next May. Already, we have begun planning our next steps. Some of us will remain at UT a little while longer to finish up degree plans and make one last powerful impact on campus. Some, like myself, will go onto graduate school or medical school (although I suppose I have to get into grad school first). Some will be entering the “real world”, like Cole Paxson, who will be working as a petroleum engineer for Anadarko Petroleum, or Caroline Meyerson, who received a job offer to work in New York in L’Oreal’s Management Development Program. Although we will be going our separate ways, it is safe to say we will remain connected for the rest of our lives thanks to this program, and can forever look to one another for support, inspiration, and friendship. The Forty Acres Scholars Program is doing exactly what it is meant to be doing - bringing the best and the brightest high school students to UT Austin, and offering them the chance to utilize their minds and skillsets at a premiere university nestled in the heart of Texas. I want to sincerely thank you all for your continued support of myself, my cohort, and this program. We wouldn’t be where we are without you. Thank you, and Hook ‘Em!   Marisa Swanson at the Texas Exes Dallas Chapter Scholarship Dinner with her parents. Photo courtesy of Marisa Swanson.

Texas Exes Awards $3.45 Million in Scholarships to UT Students [Infographic]

Texas Exes Awards $3.45 Million in Scholarships to UT Students [Infographic]

Texas Exes Awards $3.45 Million in Scholarships to UT Students [Infographic]

First Class

Four years after welcoming its inaugural class to campus, the Forty Acres Scholars Program watches its first graduates cross the stage. For years, UT had been losing Texas’ most talented high school students to the Ivy Leagues. In 2011, the Texas Exes introduced the university’s premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship program. With a comprehensive program that includes more than just a check—think a tight-knit cohort of fellow Longhorns, leadership training, and study-abroad opportunities—the Forty Acres Scholars Program managed to turn that problem on its head. The 10 members of the program’s class of 2015 were selected from a competitive pool of 780 applicants. As some of their fellow scholars continue their educations at UT, four members of that first class will become official Texas Exes—part of the organization that brought them to UT in the first place. Below, graduating Forty Acres Scholars Anne Alexander, Ashley Chang, Stephanie Eisner, and Emily Gruener reflect on their UT experiences and talk about what’s next. … On the best part of their time at UT Anne Alexander: Being able to study abroad was really incredible, and I wouldn’t have been able to do that if the program hadn’t provided the funds for it and gently nudged us to go. I got to go to Florence and immerse myself in a new culture for a full summer. Ashley Chang: My favorite part of being at UT was meeting the great diversity of people on campus. I learned more about myself because I got to see and experience new ideas. Stephanie Eisner: There are some really awesome mentors here. The professors I’ve had have been friendly, supportive, and eager to help me succeed. Emily Gruener: The alumni in particular have been very supportive. I met a Texas Ex my freshman year and he offered me an internship at his law firm. It’s great that UT alumni are so willing to help scholars figure out what they want to do. … On how their college experiences would have been different without the Forty Acres Scholars Program AA: I don’t think I would have challenged myself as much. When I saw what my fellow scholars were achieving on campus, it really challenged me to set bigger goals. AC: The transition from high school to college would have been a lot harder. The problem isn’t that there aren’t enough resources at UT; it’s just that people don’t always know they exist. We always knew the Texas Exes staff could help with any questions we had. SE: Being a Forty Acres Scholar made a lot of things easier for me, including opening the doors to creativity for what I wanted to do with my summers. I interned in Bangladesh after my freshman year, then spent a summer in Germany as a RISE Scholar. EG: I think I would’ve been afraid to take risks, such as unpaid internships or a solo service project in Guatemala. I would’ve probably stuck to trying things that more conventionally lead to success. … On what it means to become a Texas Ex AA: It’s good to know I’ll always have a place to call home. Texas Exes truly cares about connecting alumni and keeping the network strong. AC: Being a Texas Ex is such a privilege, and it will serve as motivation to work harder so I can say what started at UT actually changed the world. SE: It’s a great honor to be called a Texas Ex. I look forward to bringing what I learned about science and public health at UT to the next chapter of my life. EG: At the 2014 Distinguished Alumnus Awards, Matthew McConaughey said something about UT teaching you to fight for what you want. As a Texas Ex, I definitely have a strong desire to give back and help students the way the program helped me. Ashley Chang Elizabeth Shatto Massey Forty Acres Scholarship Then Neurobiology major and Health Science Scholar from Victoria Now Attending The University of Texas Medical School at Houston in the fall     Emily Gruener Mrs. Harold Myers Forty Acres Scholarship Then English, government, and Plan II Honors major from Houston Now Working in management consulting for Accenture in Boston, then starting law school at Stanford Stephanie Eisner Founding Donors Forty Acres Scholarship Then Public health major and Polymathic Scholar fromThe Woodlands Now Heading to the Fundação Oswaldo Cruz in Brazil for a four-month research project on Chagas disease Anne Alexander Charline and Red McCombs Family Forty Acres Scholarship, Chevron Enrichment Award Then Finance and business honors major from Houston Now Moving to Chicago for a consulting job at Accenture

First Class

Four years after welcoming its inaugural class to campus, the Forty Acres Scholars Program watches its first graduates cross the stage. For years, UT had been losing Texas’ most talented high school students to the Ivy Leagues. In 2011, the Texas Exes introduced the university’s premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship program. With a comprehensive program that includes more than just a check—think a tight-knit cohort of fellow Longhorns, leadership training, and study-abroad opportunities—the Forty Acres Scholars Program managed to turn that problem on its head. The 10 members of the program’s class of 2015 were selected from a competitive pool of 780 applicants. As some of their fellow scholars continue their educations at UT, four members of that first class will become official Texas Exes—part of the organization that brought them to UT in the first place. Below, graduating Forty Acres Scholars Anne Alexander, Ashley Chang, Stephanie Eisner, and Emily Gruener reflect on their UT experiences and talk about what’s next. … On the best part of their time at UT Anne Alexander: Being able to study abroad was really incredible, and I wouldn’t have been able to do that if the program hadn’t provided the funds for it and gently nudged us to go. I got to go to Florence and immerse myself in a new culture for a full summer. Ashley Chang: My favorite part of being at UT was meeting the great diversity of people on campus. I learned more about myself because I got to see and experience new ideas. Stephanie Eisner: There are some really awesome mentors here. The professors I’ve had have been friendly, supportive, and eager to help me succeed. Emily Gruener: The alumni in particular have been very supportive. I met a Texas Ex my freshman year and he offered me an internship at his law firm. It’s great that UT alumni are so willing to help scholars figure out what they want to do. … On how their college experiences would have been different without the Forty Acres Scholars Program AA: I don’t think I would have challenged myself as much. When I saw what my fellow scholars were achieving on campus, it really challenged me to set bigger goals. AC: The transition from high school to college would have been a lot harder. The problem isn’t that there aren’t enough resources at UT; it’s just that people don’t always know they exist. We always knew the Texas Exes staff could help with any questions we had. SE: Being a Forty Acres Scholar made a lot of things easier for me, including opening the doors to creativity for what I wanted to do with my summers. I interned in Bangladesh after my freshman year, then spent a summer in Germany as a RISE Scholar. EG: I think I would’ve been afraid to take risks, such as unpaid internships or a solo service project in Guatemala. I would’ve probably stuck to trying things that more conventionally lead to success. … On what it means to become a Texas Ex AA: It’s good to know I’ll always have a place to call home. Texas Exes truly cares about connecting alumni and keeping the network strong. AC: Being a Texas Ex is such a privilege, and it will serve as motivation to work harder so I can say what started at UT actually changed the world. SE: It’s a great honor to be called a Texas Ex. I look forward to bringing what I learned about science and public health at UT to the next chapter of my life. EG: At the 2014 Distinguished Alumnus Awards, Matthew McConaughey said something about UT teaching you to fight for what you want. As a Texas Ex, I definitely have a strong desire to give back and help students the way the program helped me. Ashley Chang Elizabeth Shatto Massey Forty Acres Scholarship Then Neurobiology major and Health Science Scholar from Victoria Now Attending The University of Texas Medical School at Houston in the fall     Emily Gruener Mrs. Harold Myers Forty Acres Scholarship Then English, government, and Plan II Honors major from Houston Now Working in management consulting for Accenture in Boston, then starting law school at Stanford Stephanie Eisner Founding Donors Forty Acres Scholarship Then Public health major and Polymathic Scholar fromThe Woodlands Now Heading to the Fundação Oswaldo Cruz in Brazil for a four-month research project on Chagas disease Anne Alexander Charline and Red McCombs Family Forty Acres Scholarship, Chevron Enrichment Award Then Finance and business honors major from Houston Now Moving to Chicago for a consulting job at Accenture

First Class

Four years after welcoming its inaugural class to campus, the Forty Acres Scholars Program watches its first graduates cross the stage. For years, UT had been losing Texas’ most talented high school students to the Ivy Leagues. In 2011, the Texas Exes introduced the university’s premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship program. With a comprehensive program that includes more than just a check—think a tight-knit cohort of fellow Longhorns, leadership training, and study-abroad opportunities—the Forty Acres Scholars Program managed to turn that problem on its head. The 10 members of the program’s class of 2015 were selected from a competitive pool of 780 applicants. As some of their fellow scholars continue their educations at UT, four members of that first class will become official Texas Exes—part of the organization that brought them to UT in the first place. Below, graduating Forty Acres Scholars Anne Alexander, Ashley Chang, Stephanie Eisner, and Emily Gruener reflect on their UT experiences and talk about what’s next. … On the best part of their time at UT Anne Alexander: Being able to study abroad was really incredible, and I wouldn’t have been able to do that if the program hadn’t provided the funds for it and gently nudged us to go. I got to go to Florence and immerse myself in a new culture for a full summer. Ashley Chang: My favorite part of being at UT was meeting the great diversity of people on campus. I learned more about myself because I got to see and experience new ideas. Stephanie Eisner: There are some really awesome mentors here. The professors I’ve had have been friendly, supportive, and eager to help me succeed. Emily Gruener: The alumni in particular have been very supportive. I met a Texas Ex my freshman year and he offered me an internship at his law firm. It’s great that UT alumni are so willing to help scholars figure out what they want to do. … On how their college experiences would have been different without the Forty Acres Scholars Program AA: I don’t think I would have challenged myself as much. When I saw what my fellow scholars were achieving on campus, it really challenged me to set bigger goals. AC: The transition from high school to college would have been a lot harder. The problem isn’t that there aren’t enough resources at UT; it’s just that people don’t always know they exist. We always knew the Texas Exes staff could help with any questions we had. SE: Being a Forty Acres Scholar made a lot of things easier for me, including opening the doors to creativity for what I wanted to do with my summers. I interned in Bangladesh after my freshman year, then spent a summer in Germany as a RISE Scholar. EG: I think I would’ve been afraid to take risks, such as unpaid internships or a solo service project in Guatemala. I would’ve probably stuck to trying things that more conventionally lead to success. … On what it means to become a Texas Ex AA: It’s good to know I’ll always have a place to call home. Texas Exes truly cares about connecting alumni and keeping the network strong. AC: Being a Texas Ex is such a privilege, and it will serve as motivation to work harder so I can say what started at UT actually changed the world. SE: It’s a great honor to be called a Texas Ex. I look forward to bringing what I learned about science and public health at UT to the next chapter of my life. EG: At the 2014 Distinguished Alumnus Awards, Matthew McConaughey said something about UT teaching you to fight for what you want. As a Texas Ex, I definitely have a strong desire to give back and help students the way the program helped me. Ashley Chang Elizabeth Shatto Massey Forty Acres Scholarship Then Neurobiology major and Health Science Scholar from Victoria Now Attending The University of Texas Medical School at Houston in the fall     Emily Gruener Mrs. Harold Myers Forty Acres Scholarship Then English, government, and Plan II Honors major from Houston Now Working in management consulting for Accenture in Boston, then starting law school at Stanford Stephanie Eisner Founding Donors Forty Acres Scholarship Then Public health major and Polymathic Scholar fromThe Woodlands Now Heading to the Fundação Oswaldo Cruz in Brazil for a four-month research project on Chagas disease Anne Alexander Charline and Red McCombs Family Forty Acres Scholarship, Chevron Enrichment Award Then Finance and business honors major from Houston Now Moving to Chicago for a consulting job at Accenture

Meet the Forty Acres Scholars Program Class of 2019

The Texas Exes is pleased to announce the Forty Acres Scholars Program Class of 2019. More than 3,000 students applied this year for the University of Texas at Austin's premiere full-ride, merit-based scholarship, and 19 outstanding scholars were selected from a group of 59 finalists. The scholars include entrepreneurs, artists, musicians, engineers, athletes, and volunteers. Among their number is an EMT in training, a nationally competitive figure skater, and a published author. Many more are student government leaders, varsity athletes, and newspaper and yearbook editors. This year's class also includes a scholar who plans to study nursing—a first for the program. Over the next four years, the Class of 2019 will take advantage of unique academic, leadership, and cultural opportunities within a close-knit cohort of fellow scholars. In addition to full funding for tuition, a living stipend, and a book stipend, the program includes enrichment experiences such as study abroad, community service, and alumni connections and support. Previous Forty Acres Scholars have studied food security in Germany, led a community service project in Guatemala, and interned at Accenture, Deloitte, and Bain & Company. Administered by the Texas Exes, the Forty Acres Scholars Program is now in its fifth year and the inaugural class of scholars will graduate this month. Below, meet the Class of 2019: Jeff Auster from Austin, Texas is the recipient of the Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long Forty Acres Scholarship. At L.C. Anderson High School, Auster was the captain of the varsity cross country and track team, the president and founding member of an anti-bullying organization called the No Place for Hate Coalition, a founding member of the Trojan Writing Project, and a class representative of the school's campus advisory council all four years. He has also consistently placed at state in the Texas State German Competition. At UT, Auster plans to study biomedical engineering and pursue a career in medicine. He is the son of Mary Ann and David Auster.   Erin Backus from Fort Worth, Texas is the recipient of the Jeanne L. and Michael L. Klein Forty Acres Scholarship. At Trimble Technical High School, she has been named a National Achievement Scholar, a Superintendent's Scholar, and president of the school's National Honor Society. She lettered in volleyball, basketball, track, and band before her 16th birthday and made the First All-District Team in basketball two years in a row. Outside of school, Backus is an EMT in training, and the captain of her church's champion Bible Bowl team. Last summer, she played tuba in a band that raised funds to help prevent the abuse of children with special needs. At UT, she will major in kinesiology. She is the daughter of Adriane and Dwight Backus.   Giancarlo Bernini from Mission, Texas is a recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. He will graduate from the Science Academy of South Texas this spring. Bernini is a professional magician and vice president of the International Brotherhood of Magicians Ring 269. He is the author of Second Chance, a book of poetry that he sold to raise money for a local cancer clinic, and an avid collector of Harry Potter movie prop replicas. At UT, he will major in radio-television-film. He is the son of Cynthia and Juan Carlos Bernini.     Henry Boehm from Waco, Texas is the recipient of the Susie and John L. Adams Forty Acres Scholarship. At Vanguard College Preparatory School, Boehm was editor of the Vanguard Review school newspaper, the head lawyer for the Mock Trial Team, senior class president, and a member of the National Honor Society's Governing Council. Outside of school, he was an Eagle Scout with Troop 308 and a counselor at Camp Longhorn. At UT, he will double major in business honors and Plan II honors. He is the son of Beth and Trey Boehm.   Janelle Chavez from Port Isabel, Texas is a recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. At Port Isabel High School, Chavez was student body president, captain of the varsity cheerleading team, and president of the National Honor Society. She founded the school's Future Health Careers Club and was the UIL Academic State Champion in spelling and vocabulary. She is a 2015 Coca-Cola Scholar, a National Hispanic Scholar, an AP Scholar with Distinction, and a recipient of the AP International Diploma. Outside of school, she has been a member of her church choir since kindergarten and has shadowed several physicians, including an anesthesiologist, a gastroenterologist, and a cardiothoracic surgeon. At UT, she will study biochemistry and public health and plans to pursue a career in medicine. She is the daughter of Mary and Victor Chavez.   Isabelle Donatelli from Upper Montclair, New Jersey is the recipient of the Annabel and Robert Moore Forty Acres Scholarship. At Kent Place School, she was the captain of the varsity tennis team, editor-in-chief of the world languages publication, and a seven-year member of the inaugural Mandarin Chinese class. She is a talented flautist who serves as head of the advanced flute ensemble and an accomplished figure skater who competes nationally. At UT, Donatelli will double major in architecture and Chinese. She is the daughter of Erin and Tom Donatelli.   Justin Dunlap from Austin, Texas is a recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. He is an accomplished trombonist who was principal trombone of the Westlake High School wind ensemble and full orchestra,  lead trombone of the Westlake Jazz Band, and section leader in the Westlake Marching Band. A two-year All State musician, Dunlap has played in the symphony and philharmonic orchestras and in a local Austin band called Big Wy's Brass Band. In addition to his music, he founded an intramural soccer club, climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro, and traveled to 16 countries. At UT, he will major in music performance. He is the son of Emily and Wayne Dunlap.   Michael Everett from Southlake, Texas is the recipient of the Ray and Denise Nixon Forty Acres Scholarship. At Carroll Senior High School, he was the founder and president of the Finance Club, an organization focused on networking with professionals from various financial fields. He was also co-captain of the State Champion varsity swim team and the water polo team. Everett was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout in 2012 after completing a project to benefit a local elementary school. At UT, he will double major in business honors and government. He is the son of Susan and Tim Everett and is a triplet with two brothers.   Alejandra Flores from Laredo, Texas is the recipient of the BHP Forty Acres Scholarship. At United South High School, Flores was the president of her magnet school, the Academy of Global Business and Advanced Technology. She was also vice president of UIL Academics, where she was a three-time state competitor for accounting and a two-time regional team champion. She was a member of Business Professionals of America and placed in the top 10 in advanced accounting nationally. She is currently an intern at the City of Laredo County Auditor's Office and volunteers in her community by preparing income tax returns. A first-generation college student, Flores will major in business honors at UT. She is the daughter of Veronica and Arturo Tafolla.   Jacqueline Gibson from Cedar Hill, Texas is a recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. At the Ursuline Academy, she was president of the Ursuline Ambassadors, president of Sewing for Others, lead pianist in the Ursuline-Jesuit Orchestra, and the founder of T.E.E.N (Teens Engaged in Excellence Now) Day of Service. Outside of school, she is a Girl Scout Gold Award recipient, an avid foodie and cook, and the founder of Girls Go Green, an environmental sustainability workshop for middle school students. She is especially interested in the fields of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity and will study computer science at UT. She is the daughter of LaTambra and James Gibson.   Chandler Groves from Southlake, Texas is the recipient of the Sarah M. and Charles E. Seay Forty Acres Scholarship. At Carroll Senior High School, he was president of the Carroll Medical Academy, which raised money for the UNT Health Science Center Pediatric Mobile Clinic, and a Green Jacket ambassador for the Carroll Independent School District. He is a founder of Athletes Serving Others, a mother-son service organization, and a Jeff Isler Golf Certified junior instructor who teaches children at a local golf academy. At UT, he will double major in business honors and Plan II honors. He is the son of Kelly and Ron Groves.   Mandy Jústiz from Austin, Texas is the recipient of the Elizabeth Shatto Massey Forty Acres Scholarship. A classically trained coloratura soprano, Jústiz sings for approximately three hours each day and has performed in musicals and the select choir at St. Andrew's Episcopal School. She is equally passionate about the field of marine biology and has taught students in the Austin area for the past few years as a community service. At UT, she will double major in Plan II honors and biochemistry. She is the daughter of Leslie and Manuel Jústiz.     Seth Krasne from El Paso, Texas is the recipient of the Barbara and Alan Dreeben Forty Acres Scholarship. At Coronado High School, Krasne was president of WE(fillintheblank), a student group dedicated to engaging youth in politics. He was also editor-in-chief of the school's yearbook and president of the National Honors Society. During his senior year, he was a member of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program. At UT, Krasne will triple major in business honors, government, and Plan II honors. He is very proud to be the first Forty Acres Scholarship recipient from El Paso. Krasne is the son of Robin and Richard Krasne.   Omar Mata from Houston, Texas is the recipient of the AIM Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. At KIPP Houston High School, he was a member and treasurer of the KIPP Krew, the school's co-ed, national championship-winning dance team. Mata has also been active in the Houston Scholar Program, a college readiness program, since the eighth grade. Outside of school, he sings and plays the trumpet, guitar, and piano. He will join his older sister at UT, where he will major in architectural engineering. He is the son of Hortensia Cruz and Benito Mata.   Kelsey Mumford from Lago Vista, Texas is the recipient of the David Begala Forty Acres Scholarship. At Lago Vista High School, Mumford was Varsity Cheer captain and Varsity Tennis captain. In 2014, she was the UIL AA Girls Doubles Tennis State Champion and the Science Team State Champion. She was president of the National Honors Society, the Spanish Honor Society, and the Speech and Debate Society. Mumford is a National Merit Commended Scholar and an AP Scholar with Distinction. At UT, she will study nursing. She is the daughter of Debbie and Bob Mumford.     Alex Rabinovich from McAllen, Texas is the recipient of the Charline and Red McCombs Family Forty Acres Scholarship. At McAllen Memorial High School, he was editor-in-chief of the yearbook, captain of the varsity tennis team, and a mentor to first-grade and special-needs students through the Peer Assistance Leaders program (PAL). Outside of school, he was a Sunday School teacher at his synagogue and an enthusiastic traveler. At UT, he will double major in business honors and Plan II honors, and hopes to participate in community service during his study abroad program. He is the son of Michelle and Michael Rabinovich.     Chessie Reece from Euless, Texas is the recipient of the Lowell Lebermann Scholarship. At Trinity High School, she was president of the speech and debate team and ran an English tutoring service for both ESL students and members of the custodial staff. She was also part of the YMCA's Youth and Government leadership group. At UT, she will major in both government and Plan II honors. One day, she hopes to be the president of the United States. She is the daughter of Tammie and Gregory Reece.   Celia Shaheen from Plano, Texas is a recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. While attending Plano West Senior High School, Shaheen was a teen docent at the Dallas Museum of Art and worked at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth's Teen/Artist project. She was one of just 170 YoungArts finalists selected from more than 11,000 applicants, and a U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts semifinalist. She is proficient in American Sign Language and plays both classical and jazz trombone. Her artwork has been exhibited at the Dallas Museum of Art, the University of Texas at Dallas, El Centro College, Gallery 414, and the YoungArts Gallery in Miami, Florida. At UT, she will double major in art history and studio art. She is the daughter of Robyn and Matt Shaheen.   Audrey Urbis from Brownsville, Texas is the recipient of the Madison Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. While attending Los Fresnos High School, Urbis founded a mentorship program called Ojo A Ojo: Envisioning Your Future, and was the founder and president of the RGVLead campus chapter. She has portaged and paddled over 100 miles through the waters of the Northern Minnesota and Canadian boundary and has worked as a page in the U.S. Senate, where she met a strong Longhorn contingent at the Capitol. At UT, she will double major in business honors and Plan II honors. She is the daughter of Laura and Michael Urbis.  

Meet the Forty Acres Scholars Program Class of 2019

The Texas Exes is pleased to announce the Forty Acres Scholars Program Class of 2019. More than 3,000 students applied this year for the University of Texas at Austin's premiere full-ride, merit-based scholarship, and 19 outstanding scholars were selected from a group of 59 finalists. The scholars include entrepreneurs, artists, musicians, engineers, athletes, and volunteers. Among their number is an EMT in training, a nationally competitive figure skater, and a published author. Many more are student government leaders, varsity athletes, and newspaper and yearbook editors. This year's class also includes a scholar who plans to study nursing—a first for the program. Over the next four years, the Class of 2019 will take advantage of unique academic, leadership, and cultural opportunities within a close-knit cohort of fellow scholars. In addition to full funding for tuition, a living stipend, and a book stipend, the program includes enrichment experiences such as study abroad, community service, and alumni connections and support. Previous Forty Acres Scholars have studied food security in Germany, led a community service project in Guatemala, and interned at Accenture, Deloitte, and Bain & Company. Administered by the Texas Exes, the Forty Acres Scholars Program is now in its fifth year and the inaugural class of scholars will graduate this month. Below, meet the Class of 2019: Jeff Auster from Austin, Texas is the recipient of the Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long Forty Acres Scholarship. At L.C. Anderson High School, Auster was the captain of the varsity cross country and track team, the president and founding member of an anti-bullying organization called the No Place for Hate Coalition, a founding member of the Trojan Writing Project, and a class representative of the school's campus advisory council all four years. He has also consistently placed at state in the Texas State German Competition. At UT, Auster plans to study biomedical engineering and pursue a career in medicine. He is the son of Mary Ann and David Auster.   Erin Backus from Fort Worth, Texas is the recipient of the Jeanne L. and Michael L. Klein Forty Acres Scholarship. At Trimble Technical High School, she has been named a National Achievement Scholar, a Superintendent's Scholar, and president of the school's National Honor Society. She lettered in volleyball, basketball, track, and band before her 16th birthday and made the First All-District Team in basketball two years in a row. Outside of school, Backus is an EMT in training, and the captain of her church's champion Bible Bowl team. Last summer, she played tuba in a band that raised funds to help prevent the abuse of children with special needs. At UT, she will major in kinesiology. She is the daughter of Adriane and Dwight Backus.   Giancarlo Bernini from Mission, Texas is a recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. He will graduate from the Science Academy of South Texas this spring. Bernini is a professional magician and vice president of the International Brotherhood of Magicians Ring 269. He is the author of Second Chance, a book of poetry that he sold to raise money for a local cancer clinic, and an avid collector of Harry Potter movie prop replicas. At UT, he will major in radio-television-film. He is the son of Cynthia and Juan Carlos Bernini.     Henry Boehm from Waco, Texas is the recipient of the Susie and John L. Adams Forty Acres Scholarship. At Vanguard College Preparatory School, Boehm was editor of the Vanguard Review school newspaper, the head lawyer for the Mock Trial Team, senior class president, and a member of the National Honor Society's Governing Council. Outside of school, he was an Eagle Scout with Troop 308 and a counselor at Camp Longhorn. At UT, he will double major in business honors and Plan II honors. He is the son of Beth and Trey Boehm.   Janelle Chavez from Port Isabel, Texas is a recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. At Port Isabel High School, Chavez was student body president, captain of the varsity cheerleading team, and president of the National Honor Society. She founded the school's Future Health Careers Club and was the UIL Academic State Champion in spelling and vocabulary. She is a 2015 Coca-Cola Scholar, a National Hispanic Scholar, an AP Scholar with Distinction, and a recipient of the AP International Diploma. Outside of school, she has been a member of her church choir since kindergarten and has shadowed several physicians, including an anesthesiologist, a gastroenterologist, and a cardiothoracic surgeon. At UT, she will study biochemistry and public health and plans to pursue a career in medicine. She is the daughter of Mary and Victor Chavez.   Isabelle Donatelli from Upper Montclair, New Jersey is the recipient of the Annabel and Robert Moore Forty Acres Scholarship. At Kent Place School, she was the captain of the varsity tennis team, editor-in-chief of the world languages publication, and a seven-year member of the inaugural Mandarin Chinese class. She is a talented flautist who serves as head of the advanced flute ensemble and an accomplished figure skater who competes nationally. At UT, Donatelli will double major in architecture and Chinese. She is the daughter of Erin and Tom Donatelli.   Justin Dunlap from Austin, Texas is a recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. He is an accomplished trombonist who was principal trombone of the Westlake High School wind ensemble and full orchestra,  lead trombone of the Westlake Jazz Band, and section leader in the Westlake Marching Band. A two-year All State musician, Dunlap has played in the symphony and philharmonic orchestras and in a local Austin band called Big Wy's Brass Band. In addition to his music, he founded an intramural soccer club, climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro, and traveled to 16 countries. At UT, he will major in music performance. He is the son of Emily and Wayne Dunlap.   Michael Everett from Southlake, Texas is the recipient of the Ray and Denise Nixon Forty Acres Scholarship. At Carroll Senior High School, he was the founder and president of the Finance Club, an organization focused on networking with professionals from various financial fields. He was also co-captain of the State Champion varsity swim team and the water polo team. Everett was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout in 2012 after completing a project to benefit a local elementary school. At UT, he will double major in business honors and government. He is the son of Susan and Tim Everett and is a triplet with two brothers.   Alejandra Flores from Laredo, Texas is the recipient of the BHP Forty Acres Scholarship. At United South High School, Flores was the president of her magnet school, the Academy of Global Business and Advanced Technology. She was also vice president of UIL Academics, where she was a three-time state competitor for accounting and a two-time regional team champion. She was a member of Business Professionals of America and placed in the top 10 in advanced accounting nationally. She is currently an intern at the City of Laredo County Auditor's Office and volunteers in her community by preparing income tax returns. A first-generation college student, Flores will major in business honors at UT. She is the daughter of Veronica and Arturo Tafolla.   Jacqueline Gibson from Cedar Hill, Texas is a recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. At the Ursuline Academy, she was president of the Ursuline Ambassadors, president of Sewing for Others, lead pianist in the Ursuline-Jesuit Orchestra, and the founder of T.E.E.N (Teens Engaged in Excellence Now) Day of Service. Outside of school, she is a Girl Scout Gold Award recipient, an avid foodie and cook, and the founder of Girls Go Green, an environmental sustainability workshop for middle school students. She is especially interested in the fields of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity and will study computer science at UT. She is the daughter of LaTambra and James Gibson.   Chandler Groves from Southlake, Texas is the recipient of the Sarah M. and Charles E. Seay Forty Acres Scholarship. At Carroll Senior High School, he was president of the Carroll Medical Academy, which raised money for the UNT Health Science Center Pediatric Mobile Clinic, and a Green Jacket ambassador for the Carroll Independent School District. He is a founder of Athletes Serving Others, a mother-son service organization, and a Jeff Isler Golf Certified junior instructor who teaches children at a local golf academy. At UT, he will double major in business honors and Plan II honors. He is the son of Kelly and Ron Groves.   Mandy Jústiz from Austin, Texas is the recipient of the Elizabeth Shatto Massey Forty Acres Scholarship. A classically trained coloratura soprano, Jústiz sings for approximately three hours each day and has performed in musicals and the select choir at St. Andrew's Episcopal School. She is equally passionate about the field of marine biology and has taught students in the Austin area for the past few years as a community service. At UT, she will double major in Plan II honors and biochemistry. She is the daughter of Leslie and Manuel Jústiz.     Seth Krasne from El Paso, Texas is the recipient of the Barbara and Alan Dreeben Forty Acres Scholarship. At Coronado High School, Krasne was president of WE(fillintheblank), a student group dedicated to engaging youth in politics. He was also editor-in-chief of the school's yearbook and president of the National Honors Society. During his senior year, he was a member of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program. At UT, Krasne will triple major in business honors, government, and Plan II honors. He is very proud to be the first Forty Acres Scholarship recipient from El Paso. Krasne is the son of Robin and Richard Krasne.   Omar Mata from Houston, Texas is the recipient of the AIM Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. At KIPP Houston High School, he was a member and treasurer of the KIPP Krew, the school's co-ed, national championship-winning dance team. Mata has also been active in the Houston Scholar Program, a college readiness program, since the eighth grade. Outside of school, he sings and plays the trumpet, guitar, and piano. He will join his older sister at UT, where he will major in architectural engineering. He is the son of Hortensia Cruz and Benito Mata.   Kelsey Mumford from Lago Vista, Texas is the recipient of the David Begala Forty Acres Scholarship. At Lago Vista High School, Mumford was Varsity Cheer captain and Varsity Tennis captain. In 2014, she was the UIL AA Girls Doubles Tennis State Champion and the Science Team State Champion. She was president of the National Honors Society, the Spanish Honor Society, and the Speech and Debate Society. Mumford is a National Merit Commended Scholar and an AP Scholar with Distinction. At UT, she will study nursing. She is the daughter of Debbie and Bob Mumford.     Alex Rabinovich from McAllen, Texas is the recipient of the Charline and Red McCombs Family Forty Acres Scholarship. At McAllen Memorial High School, he was editor-in-chief of the yearbook, captain of the varsity tennis team, and a mentor to first-grade and special-needs students through the Peer Assistance Leaders program (PAL). Outside of school, he was a Sunday School teacher at his synagogue and an enthusiastic traveler. At UT, he will double major in business honors and Plan II honors, and hopes to participate in community service during his study abroad program. He is the son of Michelle and Michael Rabinovich.     Chessie Reece from Euless, Texas is the recipient of the Lowell Lebermann Scholarship. At Trinity High School, she was president of the speech and debate team and ran an English tutoring service for both ESL students and members of the custodial staff. She was also part of the YMCA's Youth and Government leadership group. At UT, she will major in both government and Plan II honors. One day, she hopes to be the president of the United States. She is the daughter of Tammie and Gregory Reece.   Celia Shaheen from Plano, Texas is a recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. While attending Plano West Senior High School, Shaheen was a teen docent at the Dallas Museum of Art and worked at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth's Teen/Artist project. She was one of just 170 YoungArts finalists selected from more than 11,000 applicants, and a U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts semifinalist. She is proficient in American Sign Language and plays both classical and jazz trombone. Her artwork has been exhibited at the Dallas Museum of Art, the University of Texas at Dallas, El Centro College, Gallery 414, and the YoungArts Gallery in Miami, Florida. At UT, she will double major in art history and studio art. She is the daughter of Robyn and Matt Shaheen.   Audrey Urbis from Brownsville, Texas is the recipient of the Madison Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. While attending Los Fresnos High School, Urbis founded a mentorship program called Ojo A Ojo: Envisioning Your Future, and was the founder and president of the RGVLead campus chapter. She has portaged and paddled over 100 miles through the waters of the Northern Minnesota and Canadian boundary and has worked as a page in the U.S. Senate, where she met a strong Longhorn contingent at the Capitol. At UT, she will double major in business honors and Plan II honors. She is the daughter of Laura and Michael Urbis.  

Meet the Forty Acres Scholars Program Class of 2019

The Texas Exes is pleased to announce the Forty Acres Scholars Program Class of 2019. More than 3,000 students applied this year for the University of Texas at Austin's premiere full-ride, merit-based scholarship, and 19 outstanding scholars were selected from a group of 59 finalists. The scholars include entrepreneurs, artists, musicians, engineers, athletes, and volunteers. Among their number is an EMT in training, a nationally competitive figure skater, and a published author. Many more are student government leaders, varsity athletes, and newspaper and yearbook editors. This year's class also includes a scholar who plans to study nursing—a first for the program. Over the next four years, the Class of 2019 will take advantage of unique academic, leadership, and cultural opportunities within a close-knit cohort of fellow scholars. In addition to full funding for tuition, a living stipend, and a book stipend, the program includes enrichment experiences such as study abroad, community service, and alumni connections and support. Previous Forty Acres Scholars have studied food security in Germany, led a community service project in Guatemala, and interned at Accenture, Deloitte, and Bain & Company. Administered by the Texas Exes, the Forty Acres Scholars Program is now in its fifth year and the inaugural class of scholars will graduate this month. Below, meet the Class of 2019: Jeff Auster from Austin, Texas is the recipient of the Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long Forty Acres Scholarship. At L.C. Anderson High School, Auster was the captain of the varsity cross country and track team, the president and founding member of an anti-bullying organization called the No Place for Hate Coalition, a founding member of the Trojan Writing Project, and a class representative of the school's campus advisory council all four years. He has also consistently placed at state in the Texas State German Competition. At UT, Auster plans to study biomedical engineering and pursue a career in medicine. He is the son of Mary Ann and David Auster.   Erin Backus from Fort Worth, Texas is the recipient of the Jeanne L. and Michael L. Klein Forty Acres Scholarship. At Trimble Technical High School, she has been named a National Achievement Scholar, a Superintendent's Scholar, and president of the school's National Honor Society. She lettered in volleyball, basketball, track, and band before her 16th birthday and made the First All-District Team in basketball two years in a row. Outside of school, Backus is an EMT in training, and the captain of her church's champion Bible Bowl team. Last summer, she played tuba in a band that raised funds to help prevent the abuse of children with special needs. At UT, she will major in kinesiology. She is the daughter of Adriane and Dwight Backus.   Giancarlo Bernini from Mission, Texas is a recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. He will graduate from the Science Academy of South Texas this spring. Bernini is a professional magician and vice president of the International Brotherhood of Magicians Ring 269. He is the author of Second Chance, a book of poetry that he sold to raise money for a local cancer clinic, and an avid collector of Harry Potter movie prop replicas. At UT, he will major in radio-television-film. He is the son of Cynthia and Juan Carlos Bernini.     Henry Boehm from Waco, Texas is the recipient of the Susie and John L. Adams Forty Acres Scholarship. At Vanguard College Preparatory School, Boehm was editor of the Vanguard Review school newspaper, the head lawyer for the Mock Trial Team, senior class president, and a member of the National Honor Society's Governing Council. Outside of school, he was an Eagle Scout with Troop 308 and a counselor at Camp Longhorn. At UT, he will double major in business honors and Plan II honors. He is the son of Beth and Trey Boehm.   Janelle Chavez from Port Isabel, Texas is a recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. At Port Isabel High School, Chavez was student body president, captain of the varsity cheerleading team, and president of the National Honor Society. She founded the school's Future Health Careers Club and was the UIL Academic State Champion in spelling and vocabulary. She is a 2015 Coca-Cola Scholar, a National Hispanic Scholar, an AP Scholar with Distinction, and a recipient of the AP International Diploma. Outside of school, she has been a member of her church choir since kindergarten and has shadowed several physicians, including an anesthesiologist, a gastroenterologist, and a cardiothoracic surgeon. At UT, she will study biochemistry and public health and plans to pursue a career in medicine. She is the daughter of Mary and Victor Chavez.   Isabelle Donatelli from Upper Montclair, New Jersey is the recipient of the Annabel and Robert Moore Forty Acres Scholarship. At Kent Place School, she was the captain of the varsity tennis team, editor-in-chief of the world languages publication, and a seven-year member of the inaugural Mandarin Chinese class. She is a talented flautist who serves as head of the advanced flute ensemble and an accomplished figure skater who competes nationally. At UT, Donatelli will double major in architecture and Chinese. She is the daughter of Erin and Tom Donatelli.   Justin Dunlap from Austin, Texas is a recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. He is an accomplished trombonist who was principal trombone of the Westlake High School wind ensemble and full orchestra,  lead trombone of the Westlake Jazz Band, and section leader in the Westlake Marching Band. A two-year All State musician, Dunlap has played in the symphony and philharmonic orchestras and in a local Austin band called Big Wy's Brass Band. In addition to his music, he founded an intramural soccer club, climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro, and traveled to 16 countries. At UT, he will major in music performance. He is the son of Emily and Wayne Dunlap.   Michael Everett from Southlake, Texas is the recipient of the Ray and Denise Nixon Forty Acres Scholarship. At Carroll Senior High School, he was the founder and president of the Finance Club, an organization focused on networking with professionals from various financial fields. He was also co-captain of the State Champion varsity swim team and the water polo team. Everett was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout in 2012 after completing a project to benefit a local elementary school. At UT, he will double major in business honors and government. He is the son of Susan and Tim Everett and is a triplet with two brothers.   Alejandra Flores from Laredo, Texas is the recipient of the BHP Forty Acres Scholarship. At United South High School, Flores was the president of her magnet school, the Academy of Global Business and Advanced Technology. She was also vice president of UIL Academics, where she was a three-time state competitor for accounting and a two-time regional team champion. She was a member of Business Professionals of America and placed in the top 10 in advanced accounting nationally. She is currently an intern at the City of Laredo County Auditor's Office and volunteers in her community by preparing income tax returns. A first-generation college student, Flores will major in business honors at UT. She is the daughter of Veronica and Arturo Tafolla.   Jacqueline Gibson from Cedar Hill, Texas is a recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. At the Ursuline Academy, she was president of the Ursuline Ambassadors, president of Sewing for Others, lead pianist in the Ursuline-Jesuit Orchestra, and the founder of T.E.E.N (Teens Engaged in Excellence Now) Day of Service. Outside of school, she is a Girl Scout Gold Award recipient, an avid foodie and cook, and the founder of Girls Go Green, an environmental sustainability workshop for middle school students. She is especially interested in the fields of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity and will study computer science at UT. She is the daughter of LaTambra and James Gibson.   Chandler Groves from Southlake, Texas is the recipient of the Sarah M. and Charles E. Seay Forty Acres Scholarship. At Carroll Senior High School, he was president of the Carroll Medical Academy, which raised money for the UNT Health Science Center Pediatric Mobile Clinic, and a Green Jacket ambassador for the Carroll Independent School District. He is a founder of Athletes Serving Others, a mother-son service organization, and a Jeff Isler Golf Certified junior instructor who teaches children at a local golf academy. At UT, he will double major in business honors and Plan II honors. He is the son of Kelly and Ron Groves.   Mandy Jústiz from Austin, Texas is the recipient of the Elizabeth Shatto Massey Forty Acres Scholarship. A classically trained coloratura soprano, Jústiz sings for approximately three hours each day and has performed in musicals and the select choir at St. Andrew's Episcopal School. She is equally passionate about the field of marine biology and has taught students in the Austin area for the past few years as a community service. At UT, she will double major in Plan II honors and biochemistry. She is the daughter of Leslie and Manuel Jústiz.     Seth Krasne from El Paso, Texas is the recipient of the Barbara and Alan Dreeben Forty Acres Scholarship. At Coronado High School, Krasne was president of WE(fillintheblank), a student group dedicated to engaging youth in politics. He was also editor-in-chief of the school's yearbook and president of the National Honors Society. During his senior year, he was a member of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program. At UT, Krasne will triple major in business honors, government, and Plan II honors. He is very proud to be the first Forty Acres Scholarship recipient from El Paso. Krasne is the son of Robin and Richard Krasne.   Omar Mata from Houston, Texas is the recipient of the AIM Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. At KIPP Houston High School, he was a member and treasurer of the KIPP Krew, the school's co-ed, national championship-winning dance team. Mata has also been active in the Houston Scholar Program, a college readiness program, since the eighth grade. Outside of school, he sings and plays the trumpet, guitar, and piano. He will join his older sister at UT, where he will major in architectural engineering. He is the son of Hortensia Cruz and Benito Mata.   Kelsey Mumford from Lago Vista, Texas is the recipient of the David Begala Forty Acres Scholarship. At Lago Vista High School, Mumford was Varsity Cheer captain and Varsity Tennis captain. In 2014, she was the UIL AA Girls Doubles Tennis State Champion and the Science Team State Champion. She was president of the National Honors Society, the Spanish Honor Society, and the Speech and Debate Society. Mumford is a National Merit Commended Scholar and an AP Scholar with Distinction. At UT, she will study nursing. She is the daughter of Debbie and Bob Mumford.     Alex Rabinovich from McAllen, Texas is the recipient of the Charline and Red McCombs Family Forty Acres Scholarship. At McAllen Memorial High School, he was editor-in-chief of the yearbook, captain of the varsity tennis team, and a mentor to first-grade and special-needs students through the Peer Assistance Leaders program (PAL). Outside of school, he was a Sunday School teacher at his synagogue and an enthusiastic traveler. At UT, he will double major in business honors and Plan II honors, and hopes to participate in community service during his study abroad program. He is the son of Michelle and Michael Rabinovich.     Chessie Reece from Euless, Texas is the recipient of the Lowell Lebermann Scholarship. At Trinity High School, she was president of the speech and debate team and ran an English tutoring service for both ESL students and members of the custodial staff. She was also part of the YMCA's Youth and Government leadership group. At UT, she will major in both government and Plan II honors. One day, she hopes to be the president of the United States. She is the daughter of Tammie and Gregory Reece.   Celia Shaheen from Plano, Texas is a recipient of the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. While attending Plano West Senior High School, Shaheen was a teen docent at the Dallas Museum of Art and worked at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth's Teen/Artist project. She was one of just 170 YoungArts finalists selected from more than 11,000 applicants, and a U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts semifinalist. She is proficient in American Sign Language and plays both classical and jazz trombone. Her artwork has been exhibited at the Dallas Museum of Art, the University of Texas at Dallas, El Centro College, Gallery 414, and the YoungArts Gallery in Miami, Florida. At UT, she will double major in art history and studio art. She is the daughter of Robyn and Matt Shaheen.   Audrey Urbis from Brownsville, Texas is the recipient of the Madison Charitable Foundation Forty Acres Scholarship. While attending Los Fresnos High School, Urbis founded a mentorship program called Ojo A Ojo: Envisioning Your Future, and was the founder and president of the RGVLead campus chapter. She has portaged and paddled over 100 miles through the waters of the Northern Minnesota and Canadian boundary and has worked as a page in the U.S. Senate, where she met a strong Longhorn contingent at the Capitol. At UT, she will double major in business honors and Plan II honors. She is the daughter of Laura and Michael Urbis.  

Forty Acres Scholars Program Announces Finalists

This year, with a new application process in place, more than 3,000 high school students applied to the Forty Acres Scholars Program, the premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship at the University of Texas at Austin. Of that number, just 59 students were selected as finalists for the prestigious scholarship. The finalists have an average SAT score of 1450 and an average ACT score of 33. In addition to their academic achievements, many of them somehow found the time to add lines like Eagle Scout, jazz musician, varsity athlete, and even the CEO and founder of a nonprofit company to their respective résumés. The finalists for the Class of 2019 include students in nine different UT colleges—including the first two finalists in the history of the program who intend to study nursing. They hail from Texas, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Michigan, and Maryland. From February 26-28, the students will come to Austin for Finalists Weekend, where they will learn more about the campus, sit down for interviews, and get a glimpse of what their future life in Austin could look like. Meet the finalists: Jeff Auster L.C. Anderson High School Austin, TX Erin Backus Trimble Technical High School Fort Worth, TX Giancarlo Bernini Science Academy of South Texas Mission, TX Margaret Berno St. Agnes Academy Houston, TX Natalie Berry Cy-Fair High School Cypress, TX Henry Boehm Vanguard College Preparatory School Waco, TX Shannon Carey Georgetown High School Georgetown, TX Janelle Chavez Port Isabel High School Port Isabel, TX Gabriela Coelho Talawanda High School Oxford, OH Forest Cummings-Taylor St. Mark's School of Texas Richardson, TX Theo Daniels-Kolin Washington International School Bethesda, MD Isabelle Donatelli Kent Place School Upper Montclair, NJ Mark Dovich Walnut Hills High School Cincinnati, OH Justin Dunlap Westlake High School Austin, TX Michael Everett Carroll Senior High School Southlake, TX Ale Fores United South High School Laredo, TX John-Anthony Fraga Harlingen High School South Harlingen, TX Burke Garza St. Mark's School of Texas Dallas, TX Jacqueline Gibson Ursuline Academy Cedar Hill, TX Chandler Groves Carroll Senior High School Southlake, TX Elyse Guilstorf John H. Guyer High School Corinth, TX Jocelyn Hernandez Robert E. Lee High School San Antonio, TX Jacqueline Huang Cinco Ranch High School Katy, TX Anne-Marie Hwang The Hockaday School Plano, TX Dominic Iannelli Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas Southlake, TX Eunice Iyalho Mansfield High School M ansfield, TX Mandy Justiz St. Andrew's Episcopal School Austin, TX Sam Kerner Plano East Senior High School Plano, TX Chris Koenig Sharyland High School Mission, TX Seth Krasne Coronado High School El Paso, TX Denise Kwong Clear Lake High School Houston, TX Phoebe Lin Plano West Senior High School Plano, TX Carson Markle Gainesville High School Gainesville, TX Omar Mata KIPP Houston High School Houston, TX Kelsey Mumford Lago Vista High School Lago Vista, TX Santosh Murugan Trinity Valley School Fort Worth, TX Daniel Noorily Health Careers High School San Antonio, TX Hank Patton Portage Northern High School Portage, MI Vasia Pobedinski St. John's School Houston, TX Alex Rabinovich McAllen Memorial High School McAllen, TX Christine Ramjee Highland Park High School Dallas, TX Chessie Reece Trinity High School Euless, TX Matt Reitman Business Careers High School San Antonio, TX Ben Rindler Saint Mary's Hall San Antonio, TX Clarissa Rivera Brownsville Early College High School Brownsville, TX Caroline Rock Belton High School Temple, TX Marissa Rodriguez El Paso High School El Paso, TX Melody Rodriguez Fort Worth Country Day Fort Worth, TX Reece Rosenthal The Kinkaid School Houston, TX Ramee Saleh Ronald Reagan High School San Antonio, TX Roshini Saravanakumar Clear Springs High School League City, TX Kaylee Schnur The Woodlands College Park High School The Woodlands, TX Celia Shaheen Plano West Senior High School Plano, TX Haden Smiley Friona High School Friona, TX Isabelle Stasenko Peters Township High School Venetia, PA Lakshmi Uppalapati The Hockaday School Coppell, TX Audrey Urbis Los Fresnos High School Brownsville, TX Audra Vigil Manzano High School Albuquerque, NM Douglas Ziman John Cooper School The Woodlands, TX

Forty Acres Scholars Program Announces Finalists

This year, with a new application process in place, more than 3,000 high school students applied to the Forty Acres Scholars Program, the premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship at the University of Texas at Austin. Of that number, just 59 students were selected as finalists for the prestigious scholarship. The finalists have an average SAT score of 1450 and an average ACT score of 33. In addition to their academic achievements, many of them somehow found the time to add lines like Eagle Scout, jazz musician, varsity athlete, and even the CEO and founder of a nonprofit company to their respective résumés. The finalists for the Class of 2019 include students in nine different UT colleges—including the first two finalists in the history of the program who intend to study nursing. They hail from Texas, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Michigan, and Maryland. From February 26-28, the students will come to Austin for Finalists Weekend, where they will learn more about the campus, sit down for interviews, and get a glimpse of what their future life in Austin could look like. Meet the finalists: Jeff Auster L.C. Anderson High School Austin, TX Erin Backus Trimble Technical High School Fort Worth, TX Giancarlo Bernini Science Academy of South Texas Mission, TX Margaret Berno St. Agnes Academy Houston, TX Natalie Berry Cy-Fair High School Cypress, TX Henry Boehm Vanguard College Preparatory School Waco, TX Shannon Carey Georgetown High School Georgetown, TX Janelle Chavez Port Isabel High School Port Isabel, TX Gabriela Coelho Talawanda High School Oxford, OH Forest Cummings-Taylor St. Mark's School of Texas Richardson, TX Theo Daniels-Kolin Washington International School Bethesda, MD Isabelle Donatelli Kent Place School Upper Montclair, NJ Mark Dovich Walnut Hills High School Cincinnati, OH Justin Dunlap Westlake High School Austin, TX Michael Everett Carroll Senior High School Southlake, TX Ale Fores United South High School Laredo, TX John-Anthony Fraga Harlingen High School South Harlingen, TX Burke Garza St. Mark's School of Texas Dallas, TX Jacqueline Gibson Ursuline Academy Cedar Hill, TX Chandler Groves Carroll Senior High School Southlake, TX Elyse Guilstorf John H. Guyer High School Corinth, TX Jocelyn Hernandez Robert E. Lee High School San Antonio, TX Jacqueline Huang Cinco Ranch High School Katy, TX Anne-Marie Hwang The Hockaday School Plano, TX Dominic Iannelli Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas Southlake, TX Eunice Iyalho Mansfield High School M ansfield, TX Mandy Justiz St. Andrew's Episcopal School Austin, TX Sam Kerner Plano East Senior High School Plano, TX Chris Koenig Sharyland High School Mission, TX Seth Krasne Coronado High School El Paso, TX Denise Kwong Clear Lake High School Houston, TX Phoebe Lin Plano West Senior High School Plano, TX Carson Markle Gainesville High School Gainesville, TX Omar Mata KIPP Houston High School Houston, TX Kelsey Mumford Lago Vista High School Lago Vista, TX Santosh Murugan Trinity Valley School Fort Worth, TX Daniel Noorily Health Careers High School San Antonio, TX Hank Patton Portage Northern High School Portage, MI Vasia Pobedinski St. John's School Houston, TX Alex Rabinovich McAllen Memorial High School McAllen, TX Christine Ramjee Highland Park High School Dallas, TX Chessie Reece Trinity High School Euless, TX Matt Reitman Business Careers High School San Antonio, TX Ben Rindler Saint Mary's Hall San Antonio, TX Clarissa Rivera Brownsville Early College High School Brownsville, TX Caroline Rock Belton High School Temple, TX Marissa Rodriguez El Paso High School El Paso, TX Melody Rodriguez Fort Worth Country Day Fort Worth, TX Reece Rosenthal The Kinkaid School Houston, TX Ramee Saleh Ronald Reagan High School San Antonio, TX Roshini Saravanakumar Clear Springs High School League City, TX Kaylee Schnur The Woodlands College Park High School The Woodlands, TX Celia Shaheen Plano West Senior High School Plano, TX Haden Smiley Friona High School Friona, TX Isabelle Stasenko Peters Township High School Venetia, PA Lakshmi Uppalapati The Hockaday School Coppell, TX Audrey Urbis Los Fresnos High School Brownsville, TX Audra Vigil Manzano High School Albuquerque, NM Douglas Ziman John Cooper School The Woodlands, TX

Forty Acres Scholars Program Announces Finalists

This year, with a new application process in place, more than 3,000 high school students applied to the Forty Acres Scholars Program, the premier full-ride, merit-based scholarship at the University of Texas at Austin. Of that number, just 59 students were selected as finalists for the prestigious scholarship. The finalists have an average SAT score of 1450 and an average ACT score of 33. In addition to their academic achievements, many of them somehow found the time to add lines like Eagle Scout, jazz musician, varsity athlete, and even the CEO and founder of a nonprofit company to their respective résumés. The finalists for the Class of 2019 include students in nine different UT colleges—including the first two finalists in the history of the program who intend to study nursing. They hail from Texas, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Michigan, and Maryland. From February 26-28, the students will come to Austin for Finalists Weekend, where they will learn more about the campus, sit down for interviews, and get a glimpse of what their future life in Austin could look like. Meet the finalists: Jeff Auster L.C. Anderson High School Austin, TX Erin Backus Trimble Technical High School Fort Worth, TX Giancarlo Bernini Science Academy of South Texas Mission, TX Margaret Berno St. Agnes Academy Houston, TX Natalie Berry Cy-Fair High School Cypress, TX Henry Boehm Vanguard College Preparatory School Waco, TX Shannon Carey Georgetown High School Georgetown, TX Janelle Chavez Port Isabel High School Port Isabel, TX Gabriela Coelho Talawanda High School Oxford, OH Forest Cummings-Taylor St. Mark's School of Texas Richardson, TX Theo Daniels-Kolin Washington International School Bethesda, MD Isabelle Donatelli Kent Place School Upper Montclair, NJ Mark Dovich Walnut Hills High School Cincinnati, OH Justin Dunlap Westlake High School Austin, TX Michael Everett Carroll Senior High School Southlake, TX Ale Fores United South High School Laredo, TX John-Anthony Fraga Harlingen High School South Harlingen, TX Burke Garza St. Mark's School of Texas Dallas, TX Jacqueline Gibson Ursuline Academy Cedar Hill, TX Chandler Groves Carroll Senior High School Southlake, TX Elyse Guilstorf John H. Guyer High School Corinth, TX Jocelyn Hernandez Robert E. Lee High School San Antonio, TX Jacqueline Huang Cinco Ranch High School Katy, TX Anne-Marie Hwang The Hockaday School Plano, TX Dominic Iannelli Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas Southlake, TX Eunice Iyalho Mansfield High School M ansfield, TX Mandy Justiz St. Andrew's Episcopal School Austin, TX Sam Kerner Plano East Senior High School Plano, TX Chris Koenig Sharyland High School Mission, TX Seth Krasne Coronado High School El Paso, TX Denise Kwong Clear Lake High School Houston, TX Phoebe Lin Plano West Senior High School Plano, TX Carson Markle Gainesville High School Gainesville, TX Omar Mata KIPP Houston High School Houston, TX Kelsey Mumford Lago Vista High School Lago Vista, TX Santosh Murugan Trinity Valley School Fort Worth, TX Daniel Noorily Health Careers High School San Antonio, TX Hank Patton Portage Northern High School Portage, MI Vasia Pobedinski St. John's School Houston, TX Alex Rabinovich McAllen Memorial High School McAllen, TX Christine Ramjee Highland Park High School Dallas, TX Chessie Reece Trinity High School Euless, TX Matt Reitman Business Careers High School San Antonio, TX Ben Rindler Saint Mary's Hall San Antonio, TX Clarissa Rivera Brownsville Early College High School Brownsville, TX Caroline Rock Belton High School Temple, TX Marissa Rodriguez El Paso High School El Paso, TX Melody Rodriguez Fort Worth Country Day Fort Worth, TX Reece Rosenthal The Kinkaid School Houston, TX Ramee Saleh Ronald Reagan High School San Antonio, TX Roshini Saravanakumar Clear Springs High School League City, TX Kaylee Schnur The Woodlands College Park High School The Woodlands, TX Celia Shaheen Plano West Senior High School Plano, TX Haden Smiley Friona High School Friona, TX Isabelle Stasenko Peters Township High School Venetia, PA Lakshmi Uppalapati The Hockaday School Coppell, TX Audrey Urbis Los Fresnos High School Brownsville, TX Audra Vigil Manzano High School Albuquerque, NM Douglas Ziman John Cooper School The Woodlands, TX

Dallas Chapter Funds Second Forty Acres Scholarship

There was a lot to celebrate the night of November 19. At its 2014 scholarship dinner, the Texas Exes Dallas Chapter honored Rex W. Tillerson, BS ’75, Life Member, Distinguished Alumnus, CEO of ExxonMobil Corp., applauded the achievements of UT president Bill Powers and announced that the chapter had completed funding for its second Forty Acres Scholarship. And in true Dallas style, there was even more: They have already begun raising money for a third. In just six years, the chapter and its volunteers have raised a total of $1 million and become a fundraising force for the Forty Acres Scholars Program, Texas Exes' premier merit-based scholarship for the University of Texas at Austin. Jeff Duchin, BBA ’98, Life Member, a Dallas chapter leader and volunteer on the Chapters Advisory Board, says, "I think it’s unique that we’ve been able to fund two Forty Acres Scholarships on our own without matching. We have a lot of hardworking volunteers that make the event a success and a lot of passionate alumni who are willing to support the program and help out their local chapter." Speakers at the dinner included Powers, whom the chapter honored with the first-ever "No. 1 President" bronzed Longhorn trophy; Texas Exes President Kay Bailey Hutchison, LLB ’67, BA ’92, Life Member, Distinguished Alumna; and Forty Acres Scholar Katherine Allen, a freshman Plan II  major. Earlier this year, Duchin spoke with the Alcalde about spearheading a complete overhaul of the annual dinner's format, which has increased attendance, donations, and anticipation of the event. “Now it has a purpose,” Duchin said. “Now it has legs and strong supporters. It’s probably the biggest thing I am proud of.” Above: Current and former chapter board members and Texas Exes staff at the 2014 scholarship dinner honoring Rex Tillerson. Photo by David Duchin / DSPN Photos

Dallas Chapter Funds Second Forty Acres Scholarship

There was a lot to celebrate the night of November 19. At its 2014 scholarship dinner, the Texas Exes Dallas Chapter honored Rex W. Tillerson, BS ’75, Life Member, Distinguished Alumnus, CEO of ExxonMobil Corp., applauded the achievements of UT president Bill Powers and announced that the chapter had completed funding for its second Forty Acres Scholarship. And in true Dallas style, there was even more: They have already begun raising money for a third. In just six years, the chapter and its volunteers have raised a total of $1 million and become a fundraising force for the Forty Acres Scholars Program, Texas Exes' premier merit-based scholarship for the University of Texas at Austin. Jeff Duchin, BBA ’98, Life Member, a Dallas chapter leader and volunteer on the Chapters Advisory Board, says, "I think it’s unique that we’ve been able to fund two Forty Acres Scholarships on our own without matching. We have a lot of hardworking volunteers that make the event a success and a lot of passionate alumni who are willing to support the program and help out their local chapter." Speakers at the dinner included Powers, whom the chapter honored with the first-ever "No. 1 President" bronzed Longhorn trophy; Texas Exes President Kay Bailey Hutchison, LLB ’67, BA ’92, Life Member, Distinguished Alumna; and Forty Acres Scholar Katherine Allen, a freshman Plan II  major. Earlier this year, Duchin spoke with the Alcalde about spearheading a complete overhaul of the annual dinner's format, which has increased attendance, donations, and anticipation of the event. “Now it has a purpose,” Duchin said. “Now it has legs and strong supporters. It’s probably the biggest thing I am proud of.” Above: Current and former chapter board members and Texas Exes staff at the 2014 scholarship dinner honoring Rex Tillerson. Photo by David Duchin / DSPN Photos

Dallas Chapter Funds Second Forty Acres Scholarship

There was a lot to celebrate the night of November 19. At its 2014 scholarship dinner, the Texas Exes Dallas Chapter honored Rex W. Tillerson, BS ’75, Life Member, Distinguished Alumnus, CEO of ExxonMobil Corp., applauded the achievements of UT president Bill Powers and announced that the chapter had completed funding for its second Forty Acres Scholarship. And in true Dallas style, there was even more: They have already begun raising money for a third. In just six years, the chapter and its volunteers have raised a total of $1 million and become a fundraising force for the Forty Acres Scholars Program, Texas Exes' premier merit-based scholarship for the University of Texas at Austin. Jeff Duchin, BBA ’98, Life Member, a Dallas chapter leader and volunteer on the Chapters Advisory Board, says, "I think it’s unique that we’ve been able to fund two Forty Acres Scholarships on our own without matching. We have a lot of hardworking volunteers that make the event a success and a lot of passionate alumni who are willing to support the program and help out their local chapter." Speakers at the dinner included Powers, whom the chapter honored with the first-ever "No. 1 President" bronzed Longhorn trophy; Texas Exes President Kay Bailey Hutchison, LLB ’67, BA ’92, Life Member, Distinguished Alumna; and Forty Acres Scholar Katherine Allen, a freshman Plan II  major. Earlier this year, Duchin spoke with the Alcalde about spearheading a complete overhaul of the annual dinner's format, which has increased attendance, donations, and anticipation of the event. “Now it has a purpose,” Duchin said. “Now it has legs and strong supporters. It’s probably the biggest thing I am proud of.” Above: Current and former chapter board members and Texas Exes staff at the 2014 scholarship dinner honoring Rex Tillerson. Photo by David Duchin / DSPN Photos

"This Scholarship Set Me Free": Highlights from the 2014 Scholarship Dinners

The powerhouse Texas Exes scholarship program broke its own record yet again this year, awarding a mind-boggling $3.1 million to 675 students. And last week, all of those students and their donors were invited to break bread together at three dinners: one each for named scholarships (Sept. 3), the Forty Acres Scholars Program (Sept. 4), and chapter scholarships (Aug. 28). In total, 750 people attended. Hosting dinner for 750 is no mean feat, and every year Texas Exes staff members, volunteers, and the team at Rosemary's Catering put in extra work to make it happen. All the hard work is worth it when scholarship recipients and donors get to meet for the first time, says scholarships coordinator Tiffany Gonzales. "What I love about the dinners is getting to see the students and donors interact," Gonzales says. "The chance to put a face to a name and see a legacy being built means a lot." At each dinner, students, donors, and UT administrators all spoke about the role Texas Exes scholarships have played in their lives. At the chapter dinner, Dallas Chapter scholarship recipient Charles Gee told the crowd ,"This scholarship made me feel proud. It made me feel accomplished, it made me feel like I could finally be set free and do what was destined for me to do." The list of speakers also included Dean of Undergraduate Studies Brent Iverson, Texas Exes CEO and Executive Director Leslie Cedar, Provost Greg Fenves, and many more. Photo by Jose Lozano

"This Scholarship Set Me Free": Highlights from the 2014 Scholarship Dinners

The powerhouse Texas Exes scholarship program broke its own record yet again this year, awarding a mind-boggling $3.1 million to 675 students. And last week, all of those students and their donors were invited to break bread together at three dinners: one each for named scholarships (Sept. 3), the Forty Acres Scholars Program (Sept. 4), and chapter scholarships (Aug. 28). In total, 750 people attended. Hosting dinner for 750 is no mean feat, and every year Texas Exes staff members, volunteers, and the team at Rosemary's Catering put in extra work to make it happen. All the hard work is worth it when scholarship recipients and donors get to meet for the first time, says scholarships coordinator Tiffany Gonzales. "What I love about the dinners is getting to see the students and donors interact," Gonzales says. "The chance to put a face to a name and see a legacy being built means a lot." At each dinner, students, donors, and UT administrators all spoke about the role Texas Exes scholarships have played in their lives. At the chapter dinner, Dallas Chapter scholarship recipient Charles Gee told the crowd ,"This scholarship made me feel proud. It made me feel accomplished, it made me feel like I could finally be set free and do what was destined for me to do." The list of speakers also included Dean of Undergraduate Studies Brent Iverson, Texas Exes CEO and Executive Director Leslie Cedar, Provost Greg Fenves, and many more. Photo by Jose Lozano

"This Scholarship Set Me Free": Highlights from the 2014 Scholarship Dinners

The powerhouse Texas Exes scholarship program broke its own record yet again this year, awarding a mind-boggling $3.1 million to 675 students. And last week, all of those students and their donors were invited to break bread together at three dinners: one each for named scholarships (Sept. 3), the Forty Acres Scholars Program (Sept. 4), and chapter scholarships (Aug. 28). In total, 750 people attended. Hosting dinner for 750 is no mean feat, and every year Texas Exes staff members, volunteers, and the team at Rosemary's Catering put in extra work to make it happen. All the hard work is worth it when scholarship recipients and donors get to meet for the first time, says scholarships coordinator Tiffany Gonzales. "What I love about the dinners is getting to see the students and donors interact," Gonzales says. "The chance to put a face to a name and see a legacy being built means a lot." At each dinner, students, donors, and UT administrators all spoke about the role Texas Exes scholarships have played in their lives. At the chapter dinner, Dallas Chapter scholarship recipient Charles Gee told the crowd ,"This scholarship made me feel proud. It made me feel accomplished, it made me feel like I could finally be set free and do what was destined for me to do." The list of speakers also included Dean of Undergraduate Studies Brent Iverson, Texas Exes CEO and Executive Director Leslie Cedar, Provost Greg Fenves, and many more. Photo by Jose Lozano