State of the University Address 2023
During his 2023 State of the University Address, UT President Jay Hartzell shared his inspiring vision for the future of the university and applauded UT’s remarkable growth and success.
“I want to give us a sense of part of what we're trying to do as a community, part of what I think the opportunities and challenges are, and then conclude with why this campus is a special place to make it all happen,” Hartzell said after thanking the UT community for their attendance and support.
Highlighting impressive statistics, Hartzell revealed that the university received a staggering 66,000 applications, marking a ten percent annual increase. Notably, 29% of the 40,000 students enrolled come from the lowest socioeconomic status, positioning UT as the leading state flagship in students needing Pell Grants to go to college, as recognized by The New York Times.
Hartzell acknowledged the talent that the school has attracted over the years, praising Canfield Business Honors student Alyssia Meneze and philosophy professor Harvey Lederman for choosing UT over other esteemed institutions.
The University President showed his appreciation for behind-the-scenes contributors that make the university’s success possible. Hartzell commended alumni, including Steve Winn, for their generous donations. In 2023 alone, the campus raised $830 million.
Hartzell detailed the plan for “Chapter Two” of UT’s med school, highlighting the expertise and achievements of its faculty. The address proudly noted that UT’s med school was the fourth institution in the country to successfully complete a partial heart transplant.
He also addressed the lack of an academic medical center on campus and optimistically announced the future of healthcare in Austin: “...Now it's our time. And it's time for our people in Austin no longer to have to leave Austin to get that kind of care,” he said.
Emphasizing the collaboration across UT’s departments, including the prestigious Cockrell School of Engineering and the Oden Institute, Hartzell envisioned Austin taking great advantage of the growing technological innovations in the healthcare field.
He celebrated programs like Discovery to Impact and The Innovation Tower, which foster innovation and start-ups, and addressed efforts to increase the affordability of tuition, materials, and housing.
Hartzell highlighted the role of extracurriculars, like art, athletics, and music, in fostering a sense of community amongst Longhorns. The President also discussed the significance of The Tower in providing the community with a sense of place and identity, while outlining the renovation plans for the staple building of UT’s campus.
The President’s address set the stage for the future of UT. “ We have a chance now, staring at the future, to be bold, to be brash, and take a little risk,” he concluded.
