UTA Wins Big for Helping Underserved Students Succeed

The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) has been honored by the U. S. Department of Education for its outstanding work in enrolling and supporting underserved students. President Jennifer Cowley received this prestigious award in Washington, DC. UTA is one of just six institutions recognized nationwide, chosen from an initial list of 200 schools. The award highlights UTA's commitment to helping low-income and minority students achieve economic success. The Education Department evaluated schools based on various factors such as student retention, graduation rates, and employment outcomes for underserved populations. UTA stands out with 47% of its students receiving Pell Grants, compared to the national average of 31%. The university is also diverse, with 32% Hispanic, 13% African American, and 12% Asian students. UTA partners with local school districts to guide students towards college. They provide customized support from enrollment to graduation and beyond. This includes mentoring, tutoring, and connecting students with internships and research opportunities. The goal is to prepare students for successful careers. UTA graduates earn an average starting salary of $67, 500, the highest in the University of Texas System. Vice Provost Ashley Purgason noted that the award inspires them to continue their work. "It lights a fire for us to keep going, " she said. Other recognized schools include the University of South Carolina at Upstate, San Jose State University, Miami Dade College, CUNY Hostos Community College, and Salish Kootenai College. The recognition program, started by Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona, aims to honor institutions that prioritize economic mobility for underserved students. It shifts the focus from turning students away to lifting them up.