UT Division of Student Affairs

Welcome to our Summer Spotlight Series!

Each week after New Student and Family Orientation, we’re highlighting some key programs, services and resources shape our students’ lives and support their success.

We’re kicking things off with University Unions, a cornerstone of our campus community with welcoming spaces, leadership and involvement opportunities, memorable events and a wide variety of food options.

With the Texas Union, Hogg Memorial Auditorium, William C. Powers, Jr. Student Activity Center and Cactus Cafe, the Unions create places where Longhorns eat, play and get involved. The department is also home to Events + Entertainment, the largest student programming organization at UT Austin.

Learn more about how the University Unions creates community in its own distinct way: https://universityunions.utexas.edu/

First day of the first Longhorn Orientation session this summer - the energy of our students and families says it all!

A must‑have for Longhorns attending new student orientation. ⬇️

Honoring the Division of Student Affairs retirees who have transformed our students’ lives. Bob Childress is one of the greats.

For decades, the Division of Student Affairs has been defined by its staff — people whose long-term commitment has helped students feel supported, connected and ready to thrive.

This year, the University recognized 32 Division staff members whose combined 590 years of service reflect a deep dedication to enhancing the Longhorn experience.

Among these milestones, Alicia Garces reached a remarkable one: 50 years of service. She currently serves as the Associate Director of the Social Work Training Program at the Counseling and Mental Health Center (Healthyhorns).

Across five decades, Alicia has guided generations of social work trainees as they learn to support Longhorns with compassion, skill and confidence. From her start as a trainee in 1994 to her leadership as counselor, supervisor and training director, her mentorship has shaped both the students she serves and the professionals she develops.

Congratulations to Alicia and our Division Staff Service Award recipients whose commitment has strengthened our campus community, and helped Longhorns flourish on the Forty Acres and beyond.

Read more about how Alicia’s efforts have made a difference for 50 years and see the complete list of Division recipients: bit.ly/DivisionStaffService

Celebrating Our President’s Outstanding Staff Award Honorees!

The Division of Student Affairs is committed to creating supportive, connected environments where Longhorns can grow, stay well and feel confident in their ability to succeed. This year’s award recipients embody that purpose through their daily work and leadership.

Ryan Becerra, Recreational Sports
For nearly 20 years, Ryan has strengthened the systems that keep UT RecSports welcoming, reliable and running smoothly for thousands of students. His work helps create an environment where Longhorns can build healthy habits, find community and thrive. Learn how Ryan’s work enhances the Longhorn experience: bit.ly/RyanOutstandingStaff

Adrian Lancaster, Longhorn Wellness Center
Through the Longhorn SHARE Project at Healthyhorns, Adrian has expanded peer support across campus, helping students feel connected and empowered. His leadership fosters the sense of belonging and care that anchors student well-being. Discover how Adrian is building confidence and community: bit.ly/AdrianOutstandingStaff

Join us in celebrating Ryan and Adrian, two outstanding staff members whose work helps Longhorns thrive on campus — and carry those skills into their lives and communities long after graduation.

Congrats to the Class of 2026, you made it . . . now go out and change the world!

So proud of this year’s Longhorn grads! If you can’t be there in person, the celebration is just a click away. Tune into the livestream and cheer them on from wherever you are.

Can't join us in person at DKR? Watch the University-wide Commencement ceremony live on the Longhorn Network app or the Commencement website.

Longhorn Network: https://utex.as/3Pce8J1
Commencement website: https://utex.as/3PdxOwi

Passing this on for our 2026 grads and guests - an easy way to stay in the loop!

Sign up for Text Updates & Alerts for Commencement 2026!
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Stay in the loop with real-time updates on parking, traffic, weather delays, and event changes.

Text UTGRAD26 to 888777 to enroll. You’ll get a confirmation text once subscribed.

Messages will end after Spring Commencement 2026, or you can opt out anytime by texting STOP.

Want updates during other campus events?
Text UTGUEST to 888777

Congratulations to our Dean’s Dozen Award recipients! 🤘

This distinguished recognition honors students who have demonstrated exceptional service to programs and resources within the Office of the Dean of Students, while making positive contributions to our campus community 🧡

We proudly celebrate the dedication, leadership and impact of this year’s Dean’s Dozen:

- Dante Barajas
- Elizabeth Cox
- Cassidy Franzoi
- Morgan Hernandez
- Sofia Lozano
- Kaitlyn Marsh
- Ashley Mascorro
- Benet Plange Matteer
- Trenton Mosby
- Vaishnavi Penta
- Lillian Robinson
- Ivan Alejandro Rocha