Community Support Fuels UTPB's Growth and Impact

The University of Texas Permian Basin is fortunate to have many community partners who invest in the University and help Falcons soar to new heights.

UTPB is committed to providing a quality, affordable education while meeting workforce needs through industry-focused coursework and hands-on training. That mission is made possible through the support of numerous community partners.

During the 2026 State of the University address, UTPB recognized several of those partners:

Lorraine Perryman

Lorraine Perryman, Chief Financial Officer of The Perryman Group, has been involved with UTPB for more than 30 years, helping strengthen the University's impact across the region.

She and her husband have also been active advocates for higher education in the Permian Basin. One of their primary goals was helping secure four-year status for UTPB so students could earn bachelor's degrees without leaving the region.

"You can be anything you want to be in West Texas if you want to work hard enough, but what will arm you to work hard and work smart is a university education," Perryman said. "So that's why I believe in UTPB."

Jim Woodcock

Jim Woodcock, CEO of JJW Enterprise, has played an influential role at UTPB. He has served on the Board for 16 years and worked alongside three university presidents.

"I think it has a big impact," Woodcock said. "I think it brings a lot of attention to the community. I think Dr. Woodley is doing a wonderful job. The school has been great for both communities and the surrounding areas."

Sarah Harris

Sarah Harris, Executive Director of the Midland Development Corporation, said partnering with UTPB aligns directly with the organization's mission.

"The Midland Development Corporation partners with UTPB for higher education and workforce development," Harris said. "A key part of our mission is making sure the companies we recruit to Midland and help grow in Midland have the workforce they need to fill the jobs they're creating."

Jared Blong

Jared Blong, Founder and Partner of Octane Energy, has a connection to UTPB through both his business and his family. He also serves on the advisory board for the Permian Basin Water in Energy Conference, helping support the University and the industry.

"It has a tremendous impact because it can be a catalyst for so many different things," Blong said. "For students who are the first generation in their family to earn a college degree, for the healthcare industry, for oil and gas, and for the evolution of petroleum engineering and landman programs. It's a catalyst for so many good things in the next generation of leadership."

Mary Ann Beninati

Mary Ann Beninati, President and CEO of the Scharbauer Foundation, works closely with many UTPB faculty and staff members. The foundation has made generous gifts that have impacted the education and healthcare fields.

"In order to grow our community and have world-class healthcare and education, we need people to work in those fields," Beninati said. "UTPB understands that need and is answering the call. They are preparing these professionals as quickly as they can while maintaining a very high standard of quality, and we are very grateful.”