Hello Team —
As we wrap up this fall term and count down the days until winter break, I have been reflecting on our many accomplishments — as well as the difficult events and issues we have faced since classes began. We are truly at the center of how our University serves and supports our students. Our work is rarely easy, often never seen by others, but always experienced and appreciated by those we serve. And, I appreciate you and your absolute dedication to our students and each other.
In that spirit, I always look forward to finding ways to celebrate our work. Our annual holiday celebration was special for so many reasons. Sometimes coming together is just what’s needed to lift our spirits and reconnect us with what matters — each other and our work. I caught up with many of you enjoying the festive atmosphere and my favorite, connecting with colleagues. It was a fantastic way to celebrate our important work and each other. Thanks to our events team for another spectacular fête!
While we celebrate the highs, we are also there for each other during the sad times as well. On a very personal note to me, and to many across the University, we have lost a great friend and strong leader in Jim Vick, who passed away on Nov. 8. Jim was an amazing human being and laid the foundation for the work we do today.
In 1970, Jim joined UT Austin as a math professor and later served as the first associate dean in the College of Natural Sciences, fully dedicated to student support services. In 1989, Jim was named vice president for student affairs, served for 16 years and is one of seven vice presidents for student affairs at UT Austin.
Ask anyone who knew him, and they will tell you he put students first, mentored staff and was devoted to the mission of UT Austin. He empowered those he touched to change the world. His impact is still felt today.
Truly an icon on our campus, Jim influenced the Longhorn life beyond the classroom (he still taught undergraduate math classes and freshman seminars while he was VP because of his love of teaching). He collaborated with students, faculty and staff to bring many monumental and intentionally-designed student programs, spaces and resources that continue to thrive today.
His accomplishments include the renovation of Gregory Gymnasium; construction of the Recreational Sports Center and Student Services Building; creation of honors residence halls and construction of the San Jacinto Residence Hall; installation of the Martin Luther King, Jr. statue; establishment of the Freshman Interest Group (FIGs) and Reading Round-Up programs, and campus traditions that create a sense of community like Forty Acres Fest and Texas Revue, the campus-wide talent show. For those of you who did not know Jim, this story will give you a deeper understanding of his impact, including wonderful comments from former students, staff, alumni and others.
His legacy lives on, not only in many spaces, programs and resources — but in the true spirit of Division of Student Affairs work — the work you do every day as part of the hub of student life and well-being:
- Supporting every undergraduate, graduate and professional student — clearing the path to graduation and future success.
- Leading the way so every student can discover and pursue their passions, and be physically, mentally and emotionally healthy.
- Creating and offering transformative student-focused opportunities and communities.
As Jim paid it forward, you are paying it forward, too, influencing Longhorns today and for generations to come. I am grateful to those who paved the way before us and those who serve now. Your work matters.
Thank you for your commitment and tireless efforts in supporting the one and only Longhorn experience for all of our students. I wish you all a restful winter break and look forward to the amazing things we will do together during the spring term!
For Students, We Will!
Soncia Reagins-Lilly
Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students