November 20, 2019
Dear Longhorns,
On Thursday, UT Distinguished Alumna Dr. Teresa Lozano Long will receive the prestigious National Humanities Medal from President Donald Trump during a ceremony at the White House. This is a fitting honor for one of the most dedicated philanthropists in our university’s — and state’s — history.
Terry came from humble beginnings, growing up in the small South Texas town of Premont. With her parents’ encouragement and support, she thrived throughout her academic career — ultimately earning a doctorate in health and physical education at UT. She, along with her husband Joe, has championed generations of UT students — funding numerous scholarships and endowments, including a transformative gift that led to the naming of the Teresa Lozano Long Institute of Latin American Studies.
The National Humanities Medal “honors those whose work has deepened the nation's understanding of the humanities and broadened citizens' engagement with history, literature, languages, philosophy and other humanities subjects.” Terry’s legacy of leadership and giving certainly exceeds this criterion, and what is so unique is that she has made an impact across many, not just one, of these areas. Her influence on our state and nation has been multidimensional and visionary in its scope and scale.
Carmel and I are thrilled for Terry. Her accomplishments are a reflection of UT’s core values and the very highest aspirations we have for our graduates. In a year when UT students, professors and alumni have received many illustrious awards, this is one of the true highlights.
We will light the Tower orange on Thursday night in honor of Dr. Teresa Lozano Long.
Sincerely,
Gregory L. Fenves
President