AUSTIN, Texas — During his annual State of the University address, President Jay Hartzell focused on themes around expanding the definition of student success, leveraging the breadth and depth of UT, and recruiting elite talent to the University. The event took place on Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2024, at UT’s historic and recently renovated Hogg Memorial Auditorium.
Hartzell began by highlighting the current momentum at UT, including its position as one of the highest-ranked public universities globally; rising student demand with record applications; and unprecedented four-year graduation rates. He emphasized what a significant moment this is for UT.
In broadening the view of student success, Hartzell stated that maximizing students’ impact is crucial. “At UT,” he said, “we are uniquely positioned to prepare students for an uncertain world with the breadth and depth of our offerings as a research university.”
Hartzell noted that while producing specialists will continue, there will also be encouragement for students to explore beyond their silos and develop general skills and ways of thinking. He mentioned that supporting students’ foundational needs—keeping UT affordable, providing more housing options near campus, and prioritizing health, well-being, and safety—is essential for academic thriving.
Looking beyond students’ time at UT, Hartzell expressed a desire to prepare them for life after graduation. “We want to help students design lives for themselves that are fulfilling and impactful,” he said. The University’s goal is to ensure that within five years, 90% of graduates have a plan for their life and careers. One step toward this goal includes advancing efforts in entrepreneurship.
In research areas such as health and well-being; technology and society; and energy and the environment, Hartzell highlighted ongoing progress. He mentioned successes at Dell Medical School; investments from the UT Seed Fund in startups developed at UT; major funding for semiconductor research; advanced computing resources; among others.
Following a successful interdisciplinary “Year of AI” initiative across campus, Hartzell announced that 2025 would be designated as the “Year of Energy,” emphasizing the University’s expertise in addressing global energy challenges.
Additionally, he introduced an evolution of the University’s 10-year strategic plan titled Change Starts Here which focuses on ten strategic priorities aimed at making UT the world’s highest-impact public research university.
Hartzell concluded by emphasizing talent acquisition. He highlighted faculty members, students, and new academic offerings like honors programs in civics and robotics—areas attracting top students to UT. “Bringing elite students, faculty, and staff will multiply our impact,” Hartzell stated.
During his remarks, he also touched on restoring the iconic Tower structure as an inspiration symbolizing aspirations.
The event marked Hartzell’s fifth State of the University address since becoming UT’s 30th president.
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