Annual Senate Programs
Each year, Senate’s academic committees sponsor programs that promote the University’s academic initiatives. The following are a few of the programs put-on by Senate each year.
IntegrityUT Week
After Senate helped create the University Honor Code in April 2004, concerned students decided that there needed to be something to promote the newly created Honor Code. In response to this need, Senate hosts IntegrityUT Week every spring to promote the Honor Code and the need for integrity in the daily lives of students. Events during the week have included a dinner with President Bill Powers, a panel discussion with Austin community leaders, and a University-wide Bar-B-Que, at which former Texas Secretary State and Mayor of Dallas Ron Kirk spoke to students about the importance of honor and integrity in today’s world.
Longhorn School Bus
Three times each year, 5th graders from Zavala Elementary in East Austin are brought to the UT campus and exposed to the many wonders the University has to offer. Students rotate on the first two dates between events put on by the college councils, and finish off the year attending the UT graduation ceremony. Examples of past events put on by the councils include making nitrogen ice cream with Natural Sciences Council, learning to tie ties with the Business Council, and creating candy “prescriptions” with pharmacy council.
Faculty Appreciation Week
Senate sponsors Faculty Appreciation Week each spring semester, honoring the faculty for all they have done to enrich the lives of students on campus. During the week, there are receptions, forums, and various events giving students the opportunity to thank the faculty for all they do. In 2005, Senate began an annual tradition of creating UT’s largest thank you card which students sign on the West Mall.
Faculty Recognition Reception
During the fall semester, Senate hosts a reception to honor faculty member for their outstanding service to the University and the Senate of College Councils. The event allows students from the various colleges to thank their professors for all of their hard work and get acquainted with them in a more personal setting outside the classroom.
Texas Exes Teaching Awards
The Texas Exes, through the Texas Exes Teaching Awards, annually recognize professors and teaching assistants who have “had a positive influence on the educational experience of university students.” The Senate, with the aid of the College Councils, is responsible for soliciting nominations from the student body and choosing the winners. The awards are then presented to the professors by Council Presidents, along with a $1000 gift.
Who’s Who
Each year, the Senate Representatives Committee is charged with choosing from among the student body, a select group of students for the Who's Who Among Students award, one of the most highly regarded and long-standing honors programs in the nation. The committee reviews hundreds of applicants, and the award recipients are recognized at the annual student leadership awards reception.