Due to the impact of Hurricane Harvey on our community, the university-wide Gone To Texas program has been cancelled.
Held each year at The University of Texas at Austin the evening before classes begin, Gone to Texas kicks off the academic year with a brilliant showcase of the university’s spirit and traditions, showing new students firsthand what it means to be a Longhorn. Think of it as a citizenship ceremony for Longhorn Nation.
Gone to Texas begins with activities in each college or school and concludes with a university-wide celebration on the Main Mall, in front of the Tower.
New social work students will convene at the School of Social Work for an informal program with refreshments and an opportunity to meet other students, faculty and staff. Questions? Contact Ramón R. Gómez, 512-471-9819
AUSTIN, Texas – New School of Social Work students entering the 2011 fall semester at The University of Texas at Austin were welcomed in grand style during the university’s traditional Gone to Texas celebration Tuesday, Aug. 23, on the Main Mall.
New Longhorns from the School of Social Work enjoy Gone to Texas.
The annual program, held every year on the evening before classes begin, underscores what it means to be a Longhorn and highlights the academic mission of the university. It introduces new students, including incoming freshmen, transfer, graduate and law students, to the traditions of the institution and core purpose, values and honor code of the university.
Ramon Gomez, director of community affairs for the School of Social Work, also scheduled a program earlier in the evening at the school to welcome new students and introduce them to fellow social work students, faculty and staff. Last week, incoming students attended a series of orientation meetings for their respective degree programs – BSW, MSSW, Ph.D. Total school enrollment has increased by 35 percent over the last 10 years to more than 800 students.
“From Oregon to Florida and many places in between, this year’s incoming School of Social Work class is eager to begin this new chapter of their lives,” said Gomez.
“They bring in a wide range of interests from working with children and families to working to eliminate poverty. They also bring a strong commitment to social justice. They’re ready to transform lives.”
Gomez said one of the new students told him, “Now that I have ‘Gone To Texas,’ I am ready to change the world.”
University President Bill Powers with Social Work incoming students and faculty and staff at the Gone to Texas celebration.
The Gone to Texas theme is inspired by a chapter of Texas history. More than 200 years ago, as adventurers pulled up stakes seeking a fresh start, three letters etched on homestead doors revealed their destination. “GTT” was written on the doors of people indicating they had “Gone to Texas.”
The event, presented by the Office of the President with support and sponsorship of the University Co-op, featured greetings from student leaders and President William Powers Jr. and included performances by student groups showcasing the diversity of the university community and the range of opportunity available to students.
