Latest News
UT faculty elected as fellows of American Association for the Advancement of Science
By Austin Journal | Apr 18, 2024
Eleven faculty members at The University of Texas at Austin have been elected fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). The new fellows were recognized for their significant contributions to the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.Among the distinguished individuals honored by the AAAS, Hal Alper, a professor in Chemical Engineering, was acknowledged for his research in engineering biology. Alper's work focuses on altering cells to produce organic molecules, and he and his team used artificial intelligence to...
Hartzell in D.C. Seeks Congressional Support of Public AI Research and Workforce Initiatives
By Austin Journal | Apr 18, 2024
University of Texas at Austin President Jay Hartzell recently made a significant push in Washington, D.C. to garner Congressional support for the University's artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives aimed at expanding the AI workforce and advancing critical research. Hartzell emphasized the importance of these efforts, stating, "We have the largest GPU cluster in all of academia. We are home to the National Science Foundation’s Institute for Machine Learning. And we are the headquarters of the Army Futures Command, which works closely with Texas Robotics and other...
Stetson & Associates audit reports issues in special education
By Austin Journal | Apr 17, 2024
Issues in special education persist despite significant systemic improvements, as revealed in an audit conducted by Stetson & Associates for the Austin Independent School District (AISD). The audit highlighted the progress made in enhancing special education services for students, while also pointing out areas for further improvement in climate, culture, staff efficacy, data management, and shared responsibility for all students with disabilities.The audit was a result of the Texas Education Agency (TEA) Order aimed at addressing necessary enhancements in special...
'Maestro en Casa' announces 1000th graduate in Austin ISD
By Austin Journal | Apr 16, 2024
The Austin ISD celebrated its 1,000th graduate from the Maestro en Casa program since its inception in 2015. Participants in the program attend classes at their children's schools to enhance their English skills, navigate common scenarios, and grasp key vocabularies in various essential areas.
District of Innovation exemption to support students with nicotine e-cigarettes
By Austin Journal | Apr 15, 2024
A new District of Innovation exemption regarding HB 114 will allow the district more flexibility in supporting students found in possession of nicotine e-cigarettes, as campuses may now provide educational resources instead of immediate alternative education placement. These resources aim to keep students at their home campus while educating them about the harm of nicotine e-cigarettes.In August, Texas House Bill 114, which banned e-cigarettes in public schools and events, was discussed. The bill mandated that students violating the law be placed into a District...
Salute Finalists announced for Annual Staff Celebration
By Austin Journal | Apr 15, 2024
Salute, an annual staff celebration, is three weeks away and for the first time, we’re expanding our recognition categories and celebrating even more of our incredible team members. In a recent statement, the organization emphasized the importance of acknowledging the collective effort that goes into providing students and families with a stellar educational experience.Among the finalists in various categories, Paola Arroyo-Forteza from Harris Elementary School, Jill Stockton from Brentwood Elementary School, Coleen Azeez from Webb Middle School, and Cameron Daniel from...
U.S. Air Force's first female fighter pilot to deliver commencement address at UT Austin
By Austin Journal | Apr 15, 2024
Retired Maj. Gen. Jeannie M. Leavitt, the U.S. Air Force’s first female fighter pilot and a 1990 graduate of The University of Texas at Austin, has been selected to deliver the keynote address at UT’s 141st Spring Commencement on May 11. The commencement ceremony, set to take place at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium, is expected to draw over 50,000 attendees.
University of Texas at Austin announces associate vice president
By Austin Journal | Apr 15, 2024
The University of Texas at Austin has appointed Mark Arnold as the new associate vice president for Discovery to Impact, the university’s connection unit between campus innovators and industry. Arnold will play a role in enhancing the University’s research commercialization efforts, formalizing a dedicated technology transfer office, and launching Texas Startups, a division aimed at positioning UT as a national leader in supporting startups from various academic levels.
UT’s Newest Truman Scholar Bridges the Israeli-Palestinian Divide
By Austin Journal | Apr 12, 2024
Elijah Kahlenberg, a junior at The University of Texas at Austin, has been announced as the university's latest Truman scholar. The prestigious scholarship, providing $30,000 for graduate studies in public service fields, was presented to Kahlenberg by President Jay Hartzell, who described the achievement as a significant one for both the student and the university.Kahlenberg humorously recalled his initial reaction to the news, saying, "I thought, either I’m being expelled or I’m getting Truman." Expressing his gratitude, he added, "It was a surreal experience. I’m still...
Clint Dawson, Stephen Vladeck receive President’s Research Impact Award
By Austin Journal | Apr 10, 2024
AUSTIN, Texas — Clint Dawson, the creator of a code to predict hurricane storm surges, and Stephen Vladeck, an expert on federal courts and constitutional law, have been named the 2024 recipients of The University of Texas at Austin President’s Research Impact Award.President Jay Hartzell established the award in 2023 to recognize researchers whose endeavors have changed lives and understanding. Dawson, the Cockrell Family Regents Chair in Engineering #2, was instrumental in developing a simulation code used globally in hurricane storm surge predictions. Dawson's work has...
UT’s Excellence and Impact On Display in Latest Graduate School Rankings
By Austin Journal | Apr 9, 2024
The University of Texas at Austin has once again demonstrated its excellence in graduate education, as highlighted in the recent release of U.S. News & World Report's "Best Graduate Schools." President Jay Hartzell expressed pride in the university's performance, stating, "Our talent is what puts UT at the leading edge of discovery in AI and robotics, life sciences, population research, and many other disciplines that are at the forefront of solving many of the world’s most pressing problems and bettering society."UT's College of Education made significant strides, moving...
After School Activities Moved Indoors Due to Tornado Watch in Austin ISD
By Austin Journal | Apr 9, 2024
After a tornado watch was issued by the National Weather Service for Austin ISD until 5 p.m. on Tuesday, April 9, all after school activities have been moved indoors as a precaution. In a message to families and staff, the district emphasized the importance of safety protocols in place during such weather events."We are under a tornado watch from the National Weather Service until 5 p.m. Tuesday, April 9. This means that a tornado is possible but not imminent, so we are prepared and monitoring the forecast," stated the district communication.The district further...
District Safeguards Classrooms As It Seeks To Cut Spending
By Austin Journal | Apr 5, 2024
In an effort to navigate financial challenges, the Austin Independent School District (AISD) has unveiled a preliminary budget for the 2024-25 school year, featuring significant cuts to non-campus based expenses amounting to $30 million. The district's focus remains on safeguarding classrooms amidst cost-saving measures.According to a statement from AISD, "Though we must make difficult cuts, we committed to finding savings in areas that protect the classroom as much as possible." This commitment underscores the district's dedication to preserving the quality of education...
New Advanced Quantum Science Institute Will Bridge Basic Research and Applied Science
By Austin Journal | Apr 5, 2024
The University of Texas at Austin has announced the establishment of the Texas Quantum Institute, a new initiative aimed at advancing research and education in quantum science and engineering. The institute will serve as a platform for bridging basic research with practical applications in various fields such as computing, electronics, communications, sensors, quality control, and climate observation.Dan Jaffe, vice president for research at the University of Texas at Austin, expressed enthusiasm for the potential impact of quantum research, stating, "Some of the most...
Exciting Return of the American Indian Education Program to Austin ISD
By Austin Journal | Apr 4, 2024
The American Indian Education Program (AIEP) has made a welcomed return to Austin ISD, with a primary focus on supporting American Indian and Alaskan Native students and their families in their academic pursuits.Students at Austin ISD who identify as Native American or Alaskan Native during enrollment are encouraged to "Join AIEP," as stated by the American Indian Education Program. The program aims to provide tailored academic support to meet the unique needs of these students, in collaboration with Student Support Services.The AIEP, in partnership with Great Promise...
ACC Announces Free Tuition for 2024 Graduates
By Austin Journal | Apr 3, 2024
Austin Community College (ACC) has made a groundbreaking decision to offer free tuition to high school graduates of 2024. The initiative, presented by ACC Chancellor Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart, aims to remove financial barriers and provide educational opportunities for more students."The five-year program will begin with the class of 2024," stated a representative from the institution. Additionally, it was highlighted that "There are no GPA requirements or income restrictions," making the program inclusive and accessible to all aspiring students. The ultimate goal is to...
Austin ISD Teacher of the Year finalists announced
By Austin Journal | Apr 1, 2024
Four educators from Austin ISD have been named as finalists for the prestigious title of Austin ISD Teacher of the Year. The finalists are Paola Arroyo-Forteza from Harris Elementary School, Jill Stockton from Brentwood Elementary School, Coleen Azeez from Webb Middle School, and Cameron Daniel from LBJ Early College High School.These outstanding teachers were selected for their exceptional dedication and contributions to the education community. Ms. Arroyo-Forteza was recognized for her ability to establish trusting relationships and advocate for every student. Ms....
Universal Brain-Computer Interface Lets People Play Games With Just Their Thoughts
By Austin Journal | Mar 29, 2024
AUSTIN, Texas - Engineers at The University of Texas at Austin have developed a groundbreaking brain-computer interface that allows individuals to play games using only their thoughts. The research, aimed at improving the lives of people with motor disabilities, incorporates machine learning capabilities, making it a one-size-fits-all solution.Satyam Kumar, a graduate student involved in the project, highlighted the significance of this new technology, stating, "When we think about this in a clinical setting, this technology will make it so we won’t need a specialized...
Celebrating 2023-24 Volunteers of the Year
By Austin Journal | Mar 27, 2024
In a heartwarming display of community recognition, the Austin Independent School District (AISD) is celebrating the Volunteers of the Year for 2023-24. These individuals have been acknowledged for their exceptional dedication and support to their respective schools.From Allison Elementary to Zilker Elementary, volunteers like Jessica Herrera and Tomas Ruedas from Allison Elementary, Maria del Carmen Ruiz and Reyna Cruz from Andrews Elementary, and many others have been shining examples of selflessness and commitment to the betterment of their communities.Reflecting on...
Board to discuss Texas Academic Performance Report
By Austin Journal | Mar 27, 2024
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has released the Texas Academic Performance Report (TAPR) for the 2023-24 school year. The TAPR contains a wealth of performance data and information about districts and schools in the state. As part of the report, performance on the State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness (STAAR) for students in grades 3–12 is highlighted, along with student and staff demographic information, enrollment, attendance, and graduation rates, as well as indicators of postsecondary readiness.However, due to ongoing litigation, the TEA did not release...