Finding a Family: The Asian Alumni Network Scholarship

When the Asian Alumni Network awarded its first-ever scholarship to Elie Wu, they boosted a future leader who’s overcome some serious financial and family challenges. Read her story—and the story of the network's first-ever scholarship—on the Alcalde. Photo courtesy the Austin History Center

Finding a Family: The Asian Alumni Network Scholarship

When the Asian Alumni Network awarded its first-ever scholarship to Elie Wu, they boosted a future leader who’s overcome some serious financial and family challenges. Read her story—and the story of the network's first-ever scholarship—on the Alcalde. Photo courtesy the Austin History Center

Finding a Family: The Asian Alumni Network Scholarship

When the Asian Alumni Network awarded its first-ever scholarship to Elie Wu, they boosted a future leader who’s overcome some serious financial and family challenges. Read her story—and the story of the network's first-ever scholarship—on the Alcalde. Photo courtesy the Austin History Center

Texas Exes Scholar Alexandra Atalis Prizes Perseverance

At age 6, Alexandra Atalis knew she wanted to pursue a top college education. Through expectations from her endearing yaya (Greek for grandmother) Atalis studied hard and always strived for the best. This attitude landed her at one of the best universities in the nation: The University of Texas at Austin. She is a leader in the Delta Delta Delta sorority, which she credits with helping her develop administrative skills. When’s she’s not taking classes for her major (biomedical engineering), Atalis enjoys courses in history and English, subjects she says were a struggle for her in high school. Supportive professors make all the difference, she says. But her most memorable academic experience came far from the Forty Acres. At one of the most famous scientific sites in the world, Atalis took part in a hands-on study abroad program in Cambridge, England. There, she took a biomedical transport class and had the experience of a lifetime exploring the city. Atalis, the recipient of the Mrs. Harold B. Myers Texas Exes Scholarship, says her science research experience has not only enriched her academic skills—it’s taught her the meaning of perseverance. One week before being accepted to work in the biophotonic lab of James Tunnell, Atalis learned that her mother had ovarian cancer. Working in the lab under the tragic circumstances helped her cope. Atalis learned to juggle multiple experiments under great pressure; waiting for the right answer taught her patience. In the lab, Atalis studies an alternative form of chemotherapy with early cancer treatment and detection. This TEA scholar has learned to stay humble and enjoy the challenges that the University provides. “I’ve definitely been humbled being here, surrounded by the best and brightest students,” Atalis says. “It’s very challenging here at UT, but being surrounded by such talented students keeps me motivated.”

Texas Exes Scholar Alexandra Atalis Prizes Perseverance

At age 6, Alexandra Atalis knew she wanted to pursue a top college education. Through expectations from her endearing yaya (Greek for grandmother) Atalis studied hard and always strived for the best. This attitude landed her at one of the best universities in the nation: The University of Texas at Austin. She is a leader in the Delta Delta Delta sorority, which she credits with helping her develop administrative skills. When’s she’s not taking classes for her major (biomedical engineering), Atalis enjoys courses in history and English, subjects she says were a struggle for her in high school. Supportive professors make all the difference, she says. But her most memorable academic experience came far from the Forty Acres. At one of the most famous scientific sites in the world, Atalis took part in a hands-on study abroad program in Cambridge, England. There, she took a biomedical transport class and had the experience of a lifetime exploring the city. Atalis, the recipient of the Mrs. Harold B. Myers Texas Exes Scholarship, says her science research experience has not only enriched her academic skills—it’s taught her the meaning of perseverance. One week before being accepted to work in the biophotonic lab of James Tunnell, Atalis learned that her mother had ovarian cancer. Working in the lab under the tragic circumstances helped her cope. Atalis learned to juggle multiple experiments under great pressure; waiting for the right answer taught her patience. In the lab, Atalis studies an alternative form of chemotherapy with early cancer treatment and detection. This TEA scholar has learned to stay humble and enjoy the challenges that the University provides. “I’ve definitely been humbled being here, surrounded by the best and brightest students,” Atalis says. “It’s very challenging here at UT, but being surrounded by such talented students keeps me motivated.”

Texas Exes Scholar Alexandra Atalis Prizes Perseverance

At age 6, Alexandra Atalis knew she wanted to pursue a top college education. Through expectations from her endearing yaya (Greek for grandmother) Atalis studied hard and always strived for the best. This attitude landed her at one of the best universities in the nation: The University of Texas at Austin. She is a leader in the Delta Delta Delta sorority, which she credits with helping her develop administrative skills. When’s she’s not taking classes for her major (biomedical engineering), Atalis enjoys courses in history and English, subjects she says were a struggle for her in high school. Supportive professors make all the difference, she says. But her most memorable academic experience came far from the Forty Acres. At one of the most famous scientific sites in the world, Atalis took part in a hands-on study abroad program in Cambridge, England. There, she took a biomedical transport class and had the experience of a lifetime exploring the city. Atalis, the recipient of the Mrs. Harold B. Myers Texas Exes Scholarship, says her science research experience has not only enriched her academic skills—it’s taught her the meaning of perseverance. One week before being accepted to work in the biophotonic lab of James Tunnell, Atalis learned that her mother had ovarian cancer. Working in the lab under the tragic circumstances helped her cope. Atalis learned to juggle multiple experiments under great pressure; waiting for the right answer taught her patience. In the lab, Atalis studies an alternative form of chemotherapy with early cancer treatment and detection. This TEA scholar has learned to stay humble and enjoy the challenges that the University provides. “I’ve definitely been humbled being here, surrounded by the best and brightest students,” Atalis says. “It’s very challenging here at UT, but being surrounded by such talented students keeps me motivated.”

Black Alumni Network Endows John S. Chase Legacy Scholarship

  John Saunders Chase, MAr ’52, Life Member, Distinguished Alumnus, knew he wanted to be an architect from a very early age. His wife, Drucie Rucker Chase, says that his earliest design—when he was just nine years old—was a tombstone for his grandmother’s grave. America in the 1950s and 1960s was a tough place for a young black man with dreams of a career in architecture, but Chase managed to break down the racial barriers he encountered one by one. After a decorated career in the United States Army, where he served in the Philippine Islands during World War II, he was the first African American to enroll in UT’s School of Architecture, graduating in 1952. He went on to become the first African American granted a license to practice architecture in the state of Texas and the first to be admitted into the Texas Society of Architects and the Houston Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). Most notably, he was the first African American to serve on the United States Commission on Fine Arts, appointed to that position by President Carter in 1980. His work on that commission helped lead to the creation of the Vietnam War Memorial. Chase’s buildings now dot the globe, from the United States Embassy in Tunis, Tunisia, to the Delta Sigma Theta National Headquarters, to several buildings on the campus of Texas Southern University (Sterling Student Life Center, the Thurgood Marshall School of Law, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. School). Chase passed away at age 87 on March 29. To celebrate his exceptional achievements and his pioneering determination, the Texas Exes Black Alumni Network has established the John S. Chase Legacy scholarship. The scholarship supports entering African-American freshmen who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership abilities, and financial need. Students with majors in the School of Architecture, the School of Engineering, the College of Natural Sciences, or the College of Education are given special consideration. The honor is especially fitting because the Texas Exes was home to yet another of Chase’s many firsts: He was the first African American to serve as president of the organization. John and Drucie Chase were married for 61 years and had three children and five grandchildren. “The scholarship would mean a lot to him. It’s showing that he was a trailblazer and he opened a lot of doors—they’re paying tribute to him,” Drucie says. “I hope it will help another student be able to accomplish his dream.” The John S. Chase Legacy Scholarship will be officially announced on Friday, Nov. 9, during the 4th-Annual Black Homecoming Weekend’s Legacy Dinner, which is sponsored by the Texas Exes Black Alumni Steering Committee. Scheduled for November 9-11, the weekend is an opportunity for black alums to enjoy a fun-filled trip back to the Forty Acres, connect with fellow black alumni, and support current students. All proceeds from the Legacy Dinner will go towards the Black Alumni Network John S. Chase Legacy scholarship fund. Register for the weekend or learn more on the Texas Exes website. Photo: Chase in 1996.

Black Alumni Network Endows John S. Chase Legacy Scholarship

  John Saunders Chase, MAr ’52, Life Member, Distinguished Alumnus, knew he wanted to be an architect from a very early age. His wife, Drucie Rucker Chase, says that his earliest design—when he was just nine years old—was a tombstone for his grandmother’s grave. America in the 1950s and 1960s was a tough place for a young black man with dreams of a career in architecture, but Chase managed to break down the racial barriers he encountered one by one. After a decorated career in the United States Army, where he served in the Philippine Islands during World War II, he was the first African American to enroll in UT’s School of Architecture, graduating in 1952. He went on to become the first African American granted a license to practice architecture in the state of Texas and the first to be admitted into the Texas Society of Architects and the Houston Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). Most notably, he was the first African American to serve on the United States Commission on Fine Arts, appointed to that position by President Carter in 1980. His work on that commission helped lead to the creation of the Vietnam War Memorial. Chase’s buildings now dot the globe, from the United States Embassy in Tunis, Tunisia, to the Delta Sigma Theta National Headquarters, to several buildings on the campus of Texas Southern University (Sterling Student Life Center, the Thurgood Marshall School of Law, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. School). Chase passed away at age 87 on March 29. To celebrate his exceptional achievements and his pioneering determination, the Texas Exes Black Alumni Network has established the John S. Chase Legacy scholarship. The scholarship supports entering African-American freshmen who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership abilities, and financial need. Students with majors in the School of Architecture, the School of Engineering, the College of Natural Sciences, or the College of Education are given special consideration. The honor is especially fitting because the Texas Exes was home to yet another of Chase’s many firsts: He was the first African American to serve as president of the organization. John and Drucie Chase were married for 61 years and had three children and five grandchildren. “The scholarship would mean a lot to him. It’s showing that he was a trailblazer and he opened a lot of doors—they’re paying tribute to him,” Drucie says. “I hope it will help another student be able to accomplish his dream.” The John S. Chase Legacy Scholarship will be officially announced on Friday, Nov. 9, during the 4th-Annual Black Homecoming Weekend’s Legacy Dinner, which is sponsored by the Texas Exes Black Alumni Steering Committee. Scheduled for November 9-11, the weekend is an opportunity for black alums to enjoy a fun-filled trip back to the Forty Acres, connect with fellow black alumni, and support current students. All proceeds from the Legacy Dinner will go towards the Black Alumni Network John S. Chase Legacy scholarship fund. Register for the weekend or learn more on the Texas Exes website. Photo: Chase in 1996.

Black Alumni Network Endows John S. Chase Legacy Scholarship

  John Saunders Chase, MAr ’52, Life Member, Distinguished Alumnus, knew he wanted to be an architect from a very early age. His wife, Drucie Rucker Chase, says that his earliest design—when he was just nine years old—was a tombstone for his grandmother’s grave. America in the 1950s and 1960s was a tough place for a young black man with dreams of a career in architecture, but Chase managed to break down the racial barriers he encountered one by one. After a decorated career in the United States Army, where he served in the Philippine Islands during World War II, he was the first African American to enroll in UT’s School of Architecture, graduating in 1952. He went on to become the first African American granted a license to practice architecture in the state of Texas and the first to be admitted into the Texas Society of Architects and the Houston Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). Most notably, he was the first African American to serve on the United States Commission on Fine Arts, appointed to that position by President Carter in 1980. His work on that commission helped lead to the creation of the Vietnam War Memorial. Chase’s buildings now dot the globe, from the United States Embassy in Tunis, Tunisia, to the Delta Sigma Theta National Headquarters, to several buildings on the campus of Texas Southern University (Sterling Student Life Center, the Thurgood Marshall School of Law, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. School). Chase passed away at age 87 on March 29. To celebrate his exceptional achievements and his pioneering determination, the Texas Exes Black Alumni Network has established the John S. Chase Legacy scholarship. The scholarship supports entering African-American freshmen who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership abilities, and financial need. Students with majors in the School of Architecture, the School of Engineering, the College of Natural Sciences, or the College of Education are given special consideration. The honor is especially fitting because the Texas Exes was home to yet another of Chase’s many firsts: He was the first African American to serve as president of the organization. John and Drucie Chase were married for 61 years and had three children and five grandchildren. “The scholarship would mean a lot to him. It’s showing that he was a trailblazer and he opened a lot of doors—they’re paying tribute to him,” Drucie says. “I hope it will help another student be able to accomplish his dream.” The John S. Chase Legacy Scholarship will be officially announced on Friday, Nov. 9, during the 4th-Annual Black Homecoming Weekend’s Legacy Dinner, which is sponsored by the Texas Exes Black Alumni Steering Committee. Scheduled for November 9-11, the weekend is an opportunity for black alums to enjoy a fun-filled trip back to the Forty Acres, connect with fellow black alumni, and support current students. All proceeds from the Legacy Dinner will go towards the Black Alumni Network John S. Chase Legacy scholarship fund. Register for the weekend or learn more on the Texas Exes website. Photo: Chase in 1996.

Scholarship Honoring Senator Judith Zaffirini Endowed by Son

It felt more like a family reunion than a formal endowment. Even surrounded by austere quotes of past University luminaries and the gilded seals of the Main Building's Lee Hage Jamail Academic Room, it felt like a homecoming. Prominent members of The University of Texas community—from administrators to Texas Exes and students—gathered at the Tower on Tuesday to commemorate the endowment of the Senator Judith Zaffirini Scholarship by her son, Carlos Zaffirini Jr., BBA '03, JD '06, Life Member. “Carlos, you know how much we love you,” said UT System chancellor Francisco Cigarroa, adding to personal and emotional praise from Texas Exes president John Beckworth and UT president Bill Powers. Powers commended the Texas Exes for its rich history of providing scholarships to deserving students, Judith for her fiery spirit and unrivaled defense of the University, and Carlos Jr. for his gift, which Powers called "an expression of love." Beckworth described Judith, BS '67, MA '70, PhD '78, Life Member, as a champion, friend, and advocate. To put the scholarship—which will help make college affordable for students in South Texas’ Webb, Starr, and Zapata counties—into context, Laredo native Cigarroa told the story of Peter, the most gifted student in his graduating high school class who couldn’t attend college because of cost. Carlos Jr. is the founder of Adelanto HealthCare Ventures in Austin. He earned a BBA and JD from UT, but he’s still one short of his mother’s three UT degrees. Carlos spoke of his mother's exceptional work ethic while attending the University, where she maintained a 3.9 GPA even as she considered dropping out because she could no longer afford to attend. She was lucky to be helped by a family friend, Carlos said, calling the prospect of a talented student not graduating because of cost unacceptable. At just 30 years old, Carlos is endowing the scholarship in his mother’s name to make a college education accessible to capable students from the Rio Grande Valley. He intends to keep giving, and he encourages other young Texas Exes to give back as well. “I’m impressed and grateful,” Judith said in her remarks. And even though the room was packed, it was clear she was talking to only one person. 

Scholarship Honoring Senator Judith Zaffirini Endowed by Son

It felt more like a family reunion than a formal endowment. Even surrounded by austere quotes of past University luminaries and the gilded seals of the Main Building's Lee Hage Jamail Academic Room, it felt like a homecoming. Prominent members of The University of Texas community—from administrators to Texas Exes and students—gathered at the Tower on Tuesday to commemorate the endowment of the Senator Judith Zaffirini Scholarship by her son, Carlos Zaffirini Jr., BBA '03, JD '06, Life Member. “Carlos, you know how much we love you,” said UT System chancellor Francisco Cigarroa, adding to personal and emotional praise from Texas Exes president John Beckworth and UT president Bill Powers. Powers commended the Texas Exes for its rich history of providing scholarships to deserving students, Judith for her fiery spirit and unrivaled defense of the University, and Carlos Jr. for his gift, which Powers called "an expression of love." Beckworth described Judith, BS '67, MA '70, PhD '78, Life Member, as a champion, friend, and advocate. To put the scholarship—which will help make college affordable for students in South Texas’ Webb, Starr, and Zapata counties—into context, Laredo native Cigarroa told the story of Peter, the most gifted student in his graduating high school class who couldn’t attend college because of cost. Carlos Jr. is the founder of Adelanto HealthCare Ventures in Austin. He earned a BBA and JD from UT, but he’s still one short of his mother’s three UT degrees. Carlos spoke of his mother's exceptional work ethic while attending the University, where she maintained a 3.9 GPA even as she considered dropping out because she could no longer afford to attend. She was lucky to be helped by a family friend, Carlos said, calling the prospect of a talented student not graduating because of cost unacceptable. At just 30 years old, Carlos is endowing the scholarship in his mother’s name to make a college education accessible to capable students from the Rio Grande Valley. He intends to keep giving, and he encourages other young Texas Exes to give back as well. “I’m impressed and grateful,” Judith said in her remarks. And even though the room was packed, it was clear she was talking to only one person. 

Scholarship Honoring Senator Judith Zaffirini Endowed by Son

It felt more like a family reunion than a formal endowment. Even surrounded by austere quotes of past University luminaries and the gilded seals of the Main Building's Lee Hage Jamail Academic Room, it felt like a homecoming. Prominent members of The University of Texas community—from administrators to Texas Exes and students—gathered at the Tower on Tuesday to commemorate the endowment of the Senator Judith Zaffirini Scholarship by her son, Carlos Zaffirini Jr., BBA '03, JD '06, Life Member. “Carlos, you know how much we love you,” said UT System chancellor Francisco Cigarroa, adding to personal and emotional praise from Texas Exes president John Beckworth and UT president Bill Powers. Powers commended the Texas Exes for its rich history of providing scholarships to deserving students, Judith for her fiery spirit and unrivaled defense of the University, and Carlos Jr. for his gift, which Powers called "an expression of love." Beckworth described Judith, BS '67, MA '70, PhD '78, Life Member, as a champion, friend, and advocate. To put the scholarship—which will help make college affordable for students in South Texas’ Webb, Starr, and Zapata counties—into context, Laredo native Cigarroa told the story of Peter, the most gifted student in his graduating high school class who couldn’t attend college because of cost. Carlos Jr. is the founder of Adelanto HealthCare Ventures in Austin. He earned a BBA and JD from UT, but he’s still one short of his mother’s three UT degrees. Carlos spoke of his mother's exceptional work ethic while attending the University, where she maintained a 3.9 GPA even as she considered dropping out because she could no longer afford to attend. She was lucky to be helped by a family friend, Carlos said, calling the prospect of a talented student not graduating because of cost unacceptable. At just 30 years old, Carlos is endowing the scholarship in his mother’s name to make a college education accessible to capable students from the Rio Grande Valley. He intends to keep giving, and he encourages other young Texas Exes to give back as well. “I’m impressed and grateful,” Judith said in her remarks. And even though the room was packed, it was clear she was talking to only one person. 

Forty Acres Scholar Elected to Student Government

Last spring, Ryan Millikin attended his first Forty Acres Scholars interview. Now, just a year later, Millikin will experience interviewing from the other side of the table as an elected First-Year Representative for UT's Student Government. Millikin, a mechanical engineering major, decided to run for the position because he enjoyed being involved in student government in high school. Without the money, time, or staff professional politicians have for campaigning, Millikin learned to be resourceful. "I stayed up until 2 a.m. making nearly 200 cookies," he says. "I knew my chemistry professor, so I took the cookies to class and handed them out. That was 600 people I got to talk to who might have voted for me." As a first-year representative, Millikin is part of the 40-member Student Government organization. He has the opportunity to propose legislation and push for change. Millikin even gets to help distribute $30,000 to students as a member of the Financial Affairs Committee. Interviewing students, Millikin says, helps him to "have a better idea of what I need to be doing in interviews in the future." Millikin is grateful for the Forty Acres Scholars program, which has given him the opportunity to pursue extracurricular activities, including Student Government and Texas Wranglers. "It's easy to say, now that I have my college paid for, that it's not about the money—I'm able to be all about the experiences," Millikin says. One of those experiences: bonding with his 13 fellow Forty Acres Scholars, whom he says are all already very close. "We make time for each other," Millikin says. While Millikin is enjoying his first semester with Student Government, it may not be a permanent gig. "It's probably not something I'd do as a career, but it is something I enjoy," he says. "I'm definitely going to run again in the spring, though maybe for a different position."

Forty Acres Scholar Elected to Student Government

Last spring, Ryan Millikin attended his first Forty Acres Scholars interview. Now, just a year later, Millikin will experience interviewing from the other side of the table as an elected First-Year Representative for UT's Student Government. Millikin, a mechanical engineering major, decided to run for the position because he enjoyed being involved in student government in high school. Without the money, time, or staff professional politicians have for campaigning, Millikin learned to be resourceful. "I stayed up until 2 a.m. making nearly 200 cookies," he says. "I knew my chemistry professor, so I took the cookies to class and handed them out. That was 600 people I got to talk to who might have voted for me." As a first-year representative, Millikin is part of the 40-member Student Government organization. He has the opportunity to propose legislation and push for change. Millikin even gets to help distribute $30,000 to students as a member of the Financial Affairs Committee. Interviewing students, Millikin says, helps him to "have a better idea of what I need to be doing in interviews in the future." Millikin is grateful for the Forty Acres Scholars program, which has given him the opportunity to pursue extracurricular activities, including Student Government and Texas Wranglers. "It's easy to say, now that I have my college paid for, that it's not about the money—I'm able to be all about the experiences," Millikin says. One of those experiences: bonding with his 13 fellow Forty Acres Scholars, whom he says are all already very close. "We make time for each other," Millikin says. While Millikin is enjoying his first semester with Student Government, it may not be a permanent gig. "It's probably not something I'd do as a career, but it is something I enjoy," he says. "I'm definitely going to run again in the spring, though maybe for a different position."

Forty Acres Scholar Elected to Student Government

Last spring, Ryan Millikin attended his first Forty Acres Scholars interview. Now, just a year later, Millikin will experience interviewing from the other side of the table as an elected First-Year Representative for UT's Student Government. Millikin, a mechanical engineering major, decided to run for the position because he enjoyed being involved in student government in high school. Without the money, time, or staff professional politicians have for campaigning, Millikin learned to be resourceful. "I stayed up until 2 a.m. making nearly 200 cookies," he says. "I knew my chemistry professor, so I took the cookies to class and handed them out. That was 600 people I got to talk to who might have voted for me." As a first-year representative, Millikin is part of the 40-member Student Government organization. He has the opportunity to propose legislation and push for change. Millikin even gets to help distribute $30,000 to students as a member of the Financial Affairs Committee. Interviewing students, Millikin says, helps him to "have a better idea of what I need to be doing in interviews in the future." Millikin is grateful for the Forty Acres Scholars program, which has given him the opportunity to pursue extracurricular activities, including Student Government and Texas Wranglers. "It's easy to say, now that I have my college paid for, that it's not about the money—I'm able to be all about the experiences," Millikin says. One of those experiences: bonding with his 13 fellow Forty Acres Scholars, whom he says are all already very close. "We make time for each other," Millikin says. While Millikin is enjoying his first semester with Student Government, it may not be a permanent gig. "It's probably not something I'd do as a career, but it is something I enjoy," he says. "I'm definitely going to run again in the spring, though maybe for a different position."

Hellen Awino Travels From Kenya to the Top of the Tower

At 8 years old, Hellen Awino moved from Kenya to the U.S. Her parents made the choice in hopes of giving their daughter more opportunities. When it came time for Awino to attend college, her decision came down to UT or A&M. It wasn’t until the Texas Exes Scholar interview process that she decided to become a part of the Forty Acres. During the weekend of scholarship interviews, Awino felt nervous and doubtful. But despite her skepticism, she enjoyed the trip and loved exploring UT. After experiencing a great support system from the Texas Exes, Awino made her decision. “Without this organization, without the committee members, and without the scholarship that I was awarded,” Awino says, “I am certain I would have only set foot on The University of Texas to see what my life could have been like.” As the recipient of the Ellen Dorsey Texas Exes Scholarship, Awino knew she had to work hard and uphold expectations set forth by her peers and the Texas Exes. In the past three years, Awino has helped bring the National Organization of Minority Architecture Students to the University, and has been a part of Global Architecture Brigades—an organization that has competed in two design competitions. This year alone, Awino has traveled to three continents, 12 countries, and more than 20 cities. She has experience in management, having worked as an art assistant at the Blanton Museum, and has taken more than 60 trips to the top of the UT Tower as a tour guide. But none of this would have been possible without the Texas Exes committee, alumni, and donors, says Awino, who has one year left in the five-year bachelor of architecture program.

Hellen Awino Travels From Kenya to the Top of the Tower

At 8 years old, Hellen Awino moved from Kenya to the U.S. Her parents made the choice in hopes of giving their daughter more opportunities. When it came time for Awino to attend college, her decision came down to UT or A&M. It wasn’t until the Texas Exes Scholar interview process that she decided to become a part of the Forty Acres. During the weekend of scholarship interviews, Awino felt nervous and doubtful. But despite her skepticism, she enjoyed the trip and loved exploring UT. After experiencing a great support system from the Texas Exes, Awino made her decision. “Without this organization, without the committee members, and without the scholarship that I was awarded,” Awino says, “I am certain I would have only set foot on The University of Texas to see what my life could have been like.” As the recipient of the Ellen Dorsey Texas Exes Scholarship, Awino knew she had to work hard and uphold expectations set forth by her peers and the Texas Exes. In the past three years, Awino has helped bring the National Organization of Minority Architecture Students to the University, and has been a part of Global Architecture Brigades—an organization that has competed in two design competitions. This year alone, Awino has traveled to three continents, 12 countries, and more than 20 cities. She has experience in management, having worked as an art assistant at the Blanton Museum, and has taken more than 60 trips to the top of the UT Tower as a tour guide. But none of this would have been possible without the Texas Exes committee, alumni, and donors, says Awino, who has one year left in the five-year bachelor of architecture program.

Hellen Awino Travels From Kenya to the Top of the Tower

At 8 years old, Hellen Awino moved from Kenya to the U.S. Her parents made the choice in hopes of giving their daughter more opportunities. When it came time for Awino to attend college, her decision came down to UT or A&M. It wasn’t until the Texas Exes Scholar interview process that she decided to become a part of the Forty Acres. During the weekend of scholarship interviews, Awino felt nervous and doubtful. But despite her skepticism, she enjoyed the trip and loved exploring UT. After experiencing a great support system from the Texas Exes, Awino made her decision. “Without this organization, without the committee members, and without the scholarship that I was awarded,” Awino says, “I am certain I would have only set foot on The University of Texas to see what my life could have been like.” As the recipient of the Ellen Dorsey Texas Exes Scholarship, Awino knew she had to work hard and uphold expectations set forth by her peers and the Texas Exes. In the past three years, Awino has helped bring the National Organization of Minority Architecture Students to the University, and has been a part of Global Architecture Brigades—an organization that has competed in two design competitions. This year alone, Awino has traveled to three continents, 12 countries, and more than 20 cities. She has experience in management, having worked as an art assistant at the Blanton Museum, and has taken more than 60 trips to the top of the UT Tower as a tour guide. But none of this would have been possible without the Texas Exes committee, alumni, and donors, says Awino, who has one year left in the five-year bachelor of architecture program.

Longhorn Sisters—and Scholarship Recipients—Featured in The Bellaire Buzz

The Meyerson sisters—Anna, Caroline, and Rachel—are serious Longhorn fans. So serious, in fact, that the press is taking notice. The sisters, all current UT students, were recently highlighted in the Bellaire Buzz’s "Faithful Fans." They're no strangers to orange blood: Alfie Meyerson, BA '81, JD '84, and Pauline Meyerson, BBA '81, Life Members, instilled Longhorn pride in their daughters from an early age—taking them to every Texas-OU football game for the last 25 years. "It's my greatest accomplishment in life," Rachel, a graduate student in educational psychology, told the Buzz. "I count in-womb." Rachel earned a master's degree at Harvard before returning to the Forty Acres for a doctoral program. "I could go away just to the other best university in the world," she says, "but then I had to come back home." Anna told the Buzz that one of her father's proudest moments was when she met Darrell K Royal by chance outside the stadium; Caroline, a freshman in Plan II honors and business honors, said "The Eyes of Texas" was her childhood lullaby. Beyond school spirit, something else unites the Meyerson trio: academic prowess. Caroline is a recipient of the Forty Acres Scholarship, and Rachel, BA ’10, Life Member, won a Texas Excellence Award (the predecessor to the Forty Acres Scholarship). Anna, a senior majoring in elementary education, has also excelled academically. The Meyerson sisters, from left: Rachel, Anna, and Caroline. Cover courtesy the Bellaire Buzz.

Longhorn Sisters—and Scholarship Recipients—Featured in The Bellaire Buzz

The Meyerson sisters—Anna, Caroline, and Rachel—are serious Longhorn fans. So serious, in fact, that the press is taking notice. The sisters, all current UT students, were recently highlighted in the Bellaire Buzz’s "Faithful Fans." They're no strangers to orange blood: Alfie Meyerson, BA '81, JD '84, and Pauline Meyerson, BBA '81, Life Members, instilled Longhorn pride in their daughters from an early age—taking them to every Texas-OU football game for the last 25 years. "It's my greatest accomplishment in life," Rachel, a graduate student in educational psychology, told the Buzz. "I count in-womb." Rachel earned a master's degree at Harvard before returning to the Forty Acres for a doctoral program. "I could go away just to the other best university in the world," she says, "but then I had to come back home." Anna told the Buzz that one of her father's proudest moments was when she met Darrell K Royal by chance outside the stadium; Caroline, a freshman in Plan II honors and business honors, said "The Eyes of Texas" was her childhood lullaby. Beyond school spirit, something else unites the Meyerson trio: academic prowess. Caroline is a recipient of the Forty Acres Scholarship, and Rachel, BA ’10, Life Member, won a Texas Excellence Award (the predecessor to the Forty Acres Scholarship). Anna, a senior majoring in elementary education, has also excelled academically. The Meyerson sisters, from left: Rachel, Anna, and Caroline. Cover courtesy the Bellaire Buzz.

Longhorn Sisters—and Scholarship Recipients—Featured in The Bellaire Buzz

The Meyerson sisters—Anna, Caroline, and Rachel—are serious Longhorn fans. So serious, in fact, that the press is taking notice. The sisters, all current UT students, were recently highlighted in the Bellaire Buzz’s "Faithful Fans." They're no strangers to orange blood: Alfie Meyerson, BA '81, JD '84, and Pauline Meyerson, BBA '81, Life Members, instilled Longhorn pride in their daughters from an early age—taking them to every Texas-OU football game for the last 25 years. "It's my greatest accomplishment in life," Rachel, a graduate student in educational psychology, told the Buzz. "I count in-womb." Rachel earned a master's degree at Harvard before returning to the Forty Acres for a doctoral program. "I could go away just to the other best university in the world," she says, "but then I had to come back home." Anna told the Buzz that one of her father's proudest moments was when she met Darrell K Royal by chance outside the stadium; Caroline, a freshman in Plan II honors and business honors, said "The Eyes of Texas" was her childhood lullaby. Beyond school spirit, something else unites the Meyerson trio: academic prowess. Caroline is a recipient of the Forty Acres Scholarship, and Rachel, BA ’10, Life Member, won a Texas Excellence Award (the predecessor to the Forty Acres Scholarship). Anna, a senior majoring in elementary education, has also excelled academically. The Meyerson sisters, from left: Rachel, Anna, and Caroline. Cover courtesy the Bellaire Buzz.

Scholar Develops Passion for Health Care

For Rathika Mallepally, the TEA scholarship was more than just a monetary award. The scholarship came with a Longhorn support system ready to champion her every endeavor in college. As she nears graduation, Mallepally says the scholarship has influenced her college experience for the better. While at UT, the business honors and finance major has worked as a certified nursing assistant on a medical service trip to Nicaragua, consulted for an international oncology service firm in Brazil, and is currently leading a team to consult for a medical nonprofit in Central America. Can we say globetrotter? “My experiences have been eclectic, and the scholarship has given me the flexibility to figure out what I am most passionate about,” Mallepally says. As one of the last TEA scholars, Mallepally hopes to leave a lasting impression after graduation. And she’s already on her way toward doing so. During a recent medical school interview, one of the interviewers told Mallepally something she’ll cherish forever. He said, “Most people in finance just want to go into private practice, make a lot of money, retire, and live a cushy lifestyle. But I can tell just from talking to you that you’re different—you’re selfless.” For a complete stranger to make that assertion about Mallepally speaks volumes about her character and why she is a TEA scholar. She is more than deserving of the scholarship, but prefers to remain humble. "It was rewarding to hear that this physician understood my passion and interests in the medical and business fields,” Mallepally says. “I think it is this commitment to lifelong service that truly qualified me for the award.” Mallepally will start medical school next fall. Although she is unsure what her focus will be, she aspires to walk in the footsteps of the most distinguished TEA alumni, who helped her get to where she is now. 

Scholar Develops Passion for Health Care

For Rathika Mallepally, the TEA scholarship was more than just a monetary award. The scholarship came with a Longhorn support system ready to champion her every endeavor in college. As she nears graduation, Mallepally says the scholarship has influenced her college experience for the better. While at UT, the business honors and finance major has worked as a certified nursing assistant on a medical service trip to Nicaragua, consulted for an international oncology service firm in Brazil, and is currently leading a team to consult for a medical nonprofit in Central America. Can we say globetrotter? “My experiences have been eclectic, and the scholarship has given me the flexibility to figure out what I am most passionate about,” Mallepally says. As one of the last TEA scholars, Mallepally hopes to leave a lasting impression after graduation. And she’s already on her way toward doing so. During a recent medical school interview, one of the interviewers told Mallepally something she’ll cherish forever. He said, “Most people in finance just want to go into private practice, make a lot of money, retire, and live a cushy lifestyle. But I can tell just from talking to you that you’re different—you’re selfless.” For a complete stranger to make that assertion about Mallepally speaks volumes about her character and why she is a TEA scholar. She is more than deserving of the scholarship, but prefers to remain humble. "It was rewarding to hear that this physician understood my passion and interests in the medical and business fields,” Mallepally says. “I think it is this commitment to lifelong service that truly qualified me for the award.” Mallepally will start medical school next fall. Although she is unsure what her focus will be, she aspires to walk in the footsteps of the most distinguished TEA alumni, who helped her get to where she is now. 

Scholar Develops Passion for Health Care

For Rathika Mallepally, the TEA scholarship was more than just a monetary award. The scholarship came with a Longhorn support system ready to champion her every endeavor in college. As she nears graduation, Mallepally says the scholarship has influenced her college experience for the better. While at UT, the business honors and finance major has worked as a certified nursing assistant on a medical service trip to Nicaragua, consulted for an international oncology service firm in Brazil, and is currently leading a team to consult for a medical nonprofit in Central America. Can we say globetrotter? “My experiences have been eclectic, and the scholarship has given me the flexibility to figure out what I am most passionate about,” Mallepally says. As one of the last TEA scholars, Mallepally hopes to leave a lasting impression after graduation. And she’s already on her way toward doing so. During a recent medical school interview, one of the interviewers told Mallepally something she’ll cherish forever. He said, “Most people in finance just want to go into private practice, make a lot of money, retire, and live a cushy lifestyle. But I can tell just from talking to you that you’re different—you’re selfless.” For a complete stranger to make that assertion about Mallepally speaks volumes about her character and why she is a TEA scholar. She is more than deserving of the scholarship, but prefers to remain humble. "It was rewarding to hear that this physician understood my passion and interests in the medical and business fields,” Mallepally says. “I think it is this commitment to lifelong service that truly qualified me for the award.” Mallepally will start medical school next fall. Although she is unsure what her focus will be, she aspires to walk in the footsteps of the most distinguished TEA alumni, who helped her get to where she is now. 

On Gameday, 1883 Council Hears From Five-Star Student Recruits

Among the tailgate parties and receptions taking place all around the Forty Acres before this Saturday's football game, one took on a different tone. UT's 1883 Council, made up of emerging alumni leaders, gathered near the leisure pool behind Gregory Gym. From there, the towering walls and lights of DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium were within sight. But dozens came to hear not about sports from coaches, but about academics from scholarship recipients. Two Forty Acres Scholars–winners of full-ride UT scholarships administered by the Texas Exes—spoke to the council about what their scholarships have enabled for them so far. Marisa Swanson chose UT over her other top choice, Harvard University. "I haven't regretted it once since I got here," she said. "From the Forty Acres Scholars program, I got the most amazing group of people in the entire world. There's nothing that Harvard has that UT doesn't have in a bigger way." Ryan Millikin talked about some of the inspiring things he's gotten to do, from touring the Tower to standing on the stadium's football field. "It's become more of an experience than a 'here's-the-check,'" he said. So why did the council invite the students to speak during a tailgate party? The reasons were two-pronged, president-elect Lisa Henken Ramirez, BA '98, Life Member, said afterward. Alumni, she said, like to see the students to whose education they're contributing—the future leaders of Texas. And they like to see the value of their degree rise. "Whenever an awesome student comes here, your degree gets better," Ramirez said. Despite the heavy academic focus, council president Ben De Leon, BA '01, BS '01, JD '04, Life Member, Outstanding Young Texas Ex, did find a way to tie the event back to football. He compared the Forty Acres Scholars to blue-chip athletic recruits like Johnathan Gray. "We're recruiting five-star students to The University of Texas," he said.

On Gameday, 1883 Council Hears From Five-Star Student Recruits

Among the tailgate parties and receptions taking place all around the Forty Acres before this Saturday's football game, one took on a different tone. UT's 1883 Council, made up of emerging alumni leaders, gathered near the leisure pool behind Gregory Gym. From there, the towering walls and lights of DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium were within sight. But dozens came to hear not about sports from coaches, but about academics from scholarship recipients. Two Forty Acres Scholars–winners of full-ride UT scholarships administered by the Texas Exes—spoke to the council about what their scholarships have enabled for them so far. Marisa Swanson chose UT over her other top choice, Harvard University. "I haven't regretted it once since I got here," she said. "From the Forty Acres Scholars program, I got the most amazing group of people in the entire world. There's nothing that Harvard has that UT doesn't have in a bigger way." Ryan Millikin talked about some of the inspiring things he's gotten to do, from touring the Tower to standing on the stadium's football field. "It's become more of an experience than a 'here's-the-check,'" he said. So why did the council invite the students to speak during a tailgate party? The reasons were two-pronged, president-elect Lisa Henken Ramirez, BA '98, Life Member, said afterward. Alumni, she said, like to see the students to whose education they're contributing—the future leaders of Texas. And they like to see the value of their degree rise. "Whenever an awesome student comes here, your degree gets better," Ramirez said. Despite the heavy academic focus, council president Ben De Leon, BA '01, BS '01, JD '04, Life Member, Outstanding Young Texas Ex, did find a way to tie the event back to football. He compared the Forty Acres Scholars to blue-chip athletic recruits like Johnathan Gray. "We're recruiting five-star students to The University of Texas," he said.

On Gameday, 1883 Council Hears From Five-Star Student Recruits

Among the tailgate parties and receptions taking place all around the Forty Acres before this Saturday's football game, one took on a different tone. UT's 1883 Council, made up of emerging alumni leaders, gathered near the leisure pool behind Gregory Gym. From there, the towering walls and lights of DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium were within sight. But dozens came to hear not about sports from coaches, but about academics from scholarship recipients. Two Forty Acres Scholars–winners of full-ride UT scholarships administered by the Texas Exes—spoke to the council about what their scholarships have enabled for them so far. Marisa Swanson chose UT over her other top choice, Harvard University. "I haven't regretted it once since I got here," she said. "From the Forty Acres Scholars program, I got the most amazing group of people in the entire world. There's nothing that Harvard has that UT doesn't have in a bigger way." Ryan Millikin talked about some of the inspiring things he's gotten to do, from touring the Tower to standing on the stadium's football field. "It's become more of an experience than a 'here's-the-check,'" he said. So why did the council invite the students to speak during a tailgate party? The reasons were two-pronged, president-elect Lisa Henken Ramirez, BA '98, Life Member, said afterward. Alumni, she said, like to see the students to whose education they're contributing—the future leaders of Texas. And they like to see the value of their degree rise. "Whenever an awesome student comes here, your degree gets better," Ramirez said. Despite the heavy academic focus, council president Ben De Leon, BA '01, BS '01, JD '04, Life Member, Outstanding Young Texas Ex, did find a way to tie the event back to football. He compared the Forty Acres Scholars to blue-chip athletic recruits like Johnathan Gray. "We're recruiting five-star students to The University of Texas," he said.

Texas Exes Awards $749,625 to 307 UT Students at Annual Named Scholarship Dinner

It’s scholarship dinner season here at the Texas Exes. Three dinners—one each for our chapter scholarships, named/dedicated scholarships, and the Texas Exes Scholars and Forty Acres Scholars—bring hundreds of students, donors, and friends to our building for evenings of fellowship and celebration. For many students, it’s a chance to finally meet the donor who is supporting their dreams. The dinners are a big part of our philosophy that Texas Exes scholarships are more than just a check—they’re also an investment by alumni in the next generation of Longhorns. Last night’s named/dedicated dinner was the biggest ever, with about 430 people in attendance. A grand total of $749,625 was awarded to 307 recipients, from freshmen to graduate and professional students. For the 2012-13 academic year, the Texas Exes will award nearly 700 students with more than $1.9 million. Read more at The Alcalde.

Texas Exes Awards $749,625 to 307 UT Students at Annual Named Scholarship Dinner

It’s scholarship dinner season here at the Texas Exes. Three dinners—one each for our chapter scholarships, named/dedicated scholarships, and the Texas Exes Scholars and Forty Acres Scholars—bring hundreds of students, donors, and friends to our building for evenings of fellowship and celebration. For many students, it’s a chance to finally meet the donor who is supporting their dreams. The dinners are a big part of our philosophy that Texas Exes scholarships are more than just a check—they’re also an investment by alumni in the next generation of Longhorns. Last night’s named/dedicated dinner was the biggest ever, with about 430 people in attendance. A grand total of $749,625 was awarded to 307 recipients, from freshmen to graduate and professional students. For the 2012-13 academic year, the Texas Exes will award nearly 700 students with more than $1.9 million. Read more at The Alcalde.

Texas Exes Awards $749,625 to 307 UT Students at Annual Named Scholarship Dinner

It’s scholarship dinner season here at the Texas Exes. Three dinners—one each for our chapter scholarships, named/dedicated scholarships, and the Texas Exes Scholars and Forty Acres Scholars—bring hundreds of students, donors, and friends to our building for evenings of fellowship and celebration. For many students, it’s a chance to finally meet the donor who is supporting their dreams. The dinners are a big part of our philosophy that Texas Exes scholarships are more than just a check—they’re also an investment by alumni in the next generation of Longhorns. Last night’s named/dedicated dinner was the biggest ever, with about 430 people in attendance. A grand total of $749,625 was awarded to 307 recipients, from freshmen to graduate and professional students. For the 2012-13 academic year, the Texas Exes will award nearly 700 students with more than $1.9 million. Read more at The Alcalde.