EVENT: New students arriving at The University of Texas at Austin will gather in front of the UT Tower to celebrate “Gone To Texas,” the official welcome for incoming students by the Office of the President. Incoming students include freshmen and transfer students, graduate and law students. The celebration introduces the newest Longhorns to the traditions of the institution and its core purpose.
WHEN: Tuesday, August 25, 8:30 p.m.
WHERE: The Main Mall on the south side of the UT Tower.
INTERVIEW OPTIONS: If you would like to do live interviews with UT Student Government leaders on Monday (Aug. 24) or Tuesday (Aug. 25), please contact Amy Crossette, (512) 573-1078.
WEBCAST: “Gone to Texas” will be broadcast live on the Web, with video streaming beginning at 8 p.m. at: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/utaustin.
BACKGROUND: “Gone to Texas” is traditionally held the evening before the first day of fall semester classes.
The event will welcome approximately 8,000 new students and guests and will feature live performances, the official welcome from President Gregory L. Fenves, guest speakers and presentations, and a finale by the Longhorn Band. The UT Tower will be lighted burnt orange to celebrate the arrival of the newest members to the Longhorn Nation.
“Gone to Texas” is one of a series of free events for incoming students during Longhorn Welcome. Longhorn Welcome kicks off with “Mooov-In” on Aug. 21, and the festivities continue through Sept. 5 with dozens of events including “From Austin With Love,” “Horns Up Night” and “Party on the Plaza.” The celebration wraps up Sept. 5 with a watch party for the first football game of the season against the University of Notre Dame.
The historical significance of “Gone to Texas” dates back 200 years ago, as adventurers across the nation, seeking a fresh start in life, pulled up stakes and headed to Texas. As they left their homesteads behind, they etched “GTT” on their doorways, revealing that Texas was their destination.
