UT Division of Student Affairs

As new Longhorns explore campus during Orientation, many are discovering the spaces and programs that help them stay active and connected. Our Summer Spotlight Series continues with Recreational Sports, a campus tradition since 1916.

RecSports promotes physical fitness, healthy habits and balanced behaviors through a wide range of recreation facilities, programs, services, special events and student employment opportunities. RecSports offers intramural sports, group exercise classes, personal training, adventure trips, instructional classes, sport clubs and more. RecSports also advances student well-being by providing education through recreation and offering leadership development opportunities.

Current UT students have access to RecSports facilities at no additional cost during academic terms in which they are enrolled and have paid tuition.

Explore everything RecSports offers at utrecsports.org.

Longhorn Orientation is bringing new Longhorns to campus, so this is an important time to spotlight the mental healthcare available on the Forty Acres. As we continue our Summer Spotlight Series, we’re turning our attention to the Counseling and Mental Health Center (CMHC).

CMHC supports student success and well-being through assessment and referral, group and short-term individual counseling, psychiatry and related services for UT Austin students. Counselors are located within colleges and schools, the Student Services Building and CMHC @ WCP, making support convenient for Longhorns.

Students can also reach support after hours through the 24/7 CMHC Crisis Line (512-471-2255 or 988) and through TimelyCare, a free virtual mental health and well-being platform.

Discover how CMHC helps students care for their mental health at https://healthyhorns.utexas.edu/cmhc/

Orientation is bringing a steady stream of new Longhorns to campus, and many students are getting their first look at the health resources available to them. As part of our Summer Spotlight Series, we’re showcasing University Health Services (UHS), our accredited on-campus medical facility for undergraduate, graduate and professional students.

This department provides comprehensive healthcare services, public health education, campus-wide immunization clinics and leadership for emergent health issues. Students also have access to the 24/7 Nurse Advice Line at 512-475-6877 (NURS) for guidance anytime they need it. UHS is designed to support students’ well-being throughout their time at UT Austin.

Learn how UHS helps students stay healthy, informed and supported throughout their college journey: https://healthyhorns.utexas.edu/uhs/

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!