As we come to the close of 2020, a year dominated by the existence of an unprecedented global pandemic, I have to admit - I’m anxious to see what the new year holds. While 2020 had extreme challenges, our University community is also celebrating many memorable moments. I’m choosing to celebrate these accomplishments and allow them to guide our momentum into the next decade. At The University of Texas Permian Basin, we remain laser-focused on serving this region and creating new opportunities for generations of families. So, in no particular order, let’s take a look at the top ten events of 2020.
The opening of the Kirk Center
In fall 2020, the University officially opened the D. Kirk Edwards Family Human Performance Center. From the moment you walk in the door, it’s clear, this facility was created to support cutting-edge research, improve the health and wellness of student-athletes and the community at-large, and support a growing University athletics grogram. The Kirk Center serves all of UTPB Athletics along with the new College of Health Sciences and Human Performance. The building has a 150-seat auditorium and lecture hall, brand new weight room, locker rooms, top-of-the-line athletic training facilities as well as high-tech laboratories and classrooms for students in the kinesiology and athletic training programs. This is a game-changer for UT Permian Basin.
Largest incoming freshman class
UT Permian Basin welcomed our largest-ever incoming freshman class with 538 students. That’s 41% higher than fall 2019 and 14% higher than our previous record high back in 2015. More students are choosing UT Permian Basin as their top school to receive a high quality education with exceptional value. That’s music to this president’s ears!
The most graduates ever!
Doubling the number of graduates is one of our top priorities at UTPB, and the trend line is looking good. In 2020, we saw an all-time high of 1,432 graduates. We expect this trend to continue based on the fastest-growing programs at UTPB. Our five highest growth programs are: business, psychology, mechanical engineering, kinesiology, and nursing!
Hosted first-ever drive through commencement
In August, the University hosted a drive-thru commencement ceremony at the Wagner Noel Performing Arts Center for spring and summer 2020 grads. Graduates were greeted by enthusiastic staff and heard their name read as they walked across the stage. Grads also took a photo with President, Dr. Sandra Woodley with a plexi-glass divider between them. We found a way to celebrate this most important accomplishment for our graduates.
15 new academic programs and tracks
UT Permian Basin continues to expand educational opportunities and we remain responsive to the needs from our industry partners. This year we launched six new programs including: Healthcare Management, Land Man, a master’s degrees in Mechanical Engineering, and accelerated master’s degrees in Biology, Geology, and Psychology. We also introduced eight new academic tracks: Cyber Security, Software Development, Game & Simulation, Data Science, Environmental Geology, and Biomedical.
Five new innovative research centers
Research is important to the University. We continue to grow our applied research opportunities
in the Permian Basin with a goal of providing innovative solutions and advancing creativity and knowledge. This year alone UTPB opened five new research centers: The Biomedical Research Center, Natural Resource Center, UTPB Cyber Center, Texas Water and Energy Institute, and the Center for Engaged Teaching, Learning ,and Leadership.
Named #22 for social mobility by U.S. News & World Report
The University of Texas Permian Basin is once again being recognized by U.S. World News and Report as one of the best universities in the nation for social mobility. That accolade is defined by a university’s success at enrolling disadvantage students who are awarded with Pell Grants. A majority of students who receive the federal funding come from households where the gross income is under $50,000. 85% of UTPB students receive need-based aid.
Record number of new graduate students
We have a record number of new first-time graduate students – a 54% increase. In fall 2020 we have a total of 1060 students who are pursuing a master’s degree - that’s 7.7% higher than last fall. We are especially proud of our graduate programs in the College of Business, which have seen record growth.
Falcon Giving Day raised nearly $200,000
The University’s first ever Falcon Giving Day was a huge success. The 24-hour online giving campaign raised $197,772.17 for our students! $50,000 of the donations were given directly to the Student Emergency Fund which helped those who were directly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. More than 220 people donated to the campaign. The next Falcon Giving Day is April 4, 2021.
Navigating a world-wide pandemic
UTPB responded quickly to the COVID-19 crisis - crafting policies that minimized risks on campus while providing a traditional collegiate experience. College campuses have many things to consider when it comes to navigating the unprecedented reality that comes with a pandemic. The list includes everything from class sizes, housing arrangements, food service, athletics, on-campus events, faculty and staff safety, and so much more. Through the hard work and dedication of our Falcon community, and with support from many organizations, we also offered financial assistance to students in need and supported our community with innovated work around COVID-19 testing.
While we had many, many more reasons to celebrate, these are some of the most remarkable accomplishments of the year. This success would not be possible without the support of our Falcon family, our community partners, and friends throughout the state. I pray that the holiday season is filled with peace and happiness for you and your family!
First 5 Program Helps Prepare Children for School
The University of Texas Permian Basin is stepping up to answer a critical need in the community – make sure all children are ready for school.