Letter from Leadership Fall 2026
From the Vice President for Development
Dear UT Staff and Faculty,
The close of the “What Starts Here” campaign marks an extraordinary chapter for The University of Texas at Austin.
Over the past decade, more than 350,000 alumni, friends and supporters invested more than $7 billion in UT, making “What Starts Here” the most successful fundraising campaign in our University’s history. Their generosity has expanded opportunities for students, accelerated groundbreaking research and strengthened UT’s ability to serve Texas and the world.
As a proud Longhorn and a member of Texas Development for more than 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the powerful connection between our University and the donors who believe in its future. The campaign’s true legacy is not measured in dollars. It is measured in the students whose lives have been transformed, the ideas and innovations emerging from our campus, and the communities empowered by UT’s impact across Texas and beyond.
In this issue, you’ll meet three members of the Texas Development team whose stories offer a glimpse into the dedication, collaboration and
relationships that fuel philanthropy at UT. You’ll also discover the researchers, groundskeepers, artists, mentors and longtime staff members whose talent and commitment make our University an enriching place to learn, work and grow.
The success of “What Starts Here” belongs to all of us. Thank you for all you do to educate students, advance discovery and strengthen our impact. Together, we are building on a remarkable legacy and creating new possibilities for generations of Longhorns to come.
Hook ’em!
David Livingston
Vice President for Development