Can you believe UTA is turning 130 in 2025? It’s been a journey full of big ideas, unforgettable traditions, and at least five name changes. In honor of our 130th anniversary, we’re taking a visual tour through our rich history. Join us as we dive into the archives and relive the research, innovation, student life, and campus moments that make being a Maverick something truly special.
Academics and Research
From pioneering research to academic excellence, UTA pushes boundaries. While labs and computers may have looked a little different back in the day, Mavericks have always been big thinkers, groundbreaking researchers, and idea makers.
Linda Garza, UTA’s first female electrical engineering student, 1970.
Nursing students in the school library, c. 1963.
Jack R. Woolf, president of Arlington State College, watches George Luck, Fort Worth IBM branch manager, try out the college’s new data processing system, 1961.
Arlington College progress report for Fannie Watson, c. late 1890s.
Physical Campus and Community
UTA’s campus has transformed over the decades, growing alongside the Maverick community it serves. From historic landmarks to cutting-edge facilities, each new building and green space tells a story of progress.
Abram Street entrance to Arlington State College, shortly after the name was changed from North Texas Agricultural College, 1949.
Steel frame construction of Texas Hall, 1964.
Arlington State College auditorium (now Texas Hall) during construction, c. 1965.
Groundskeeper Frank Bruce tends the landscaping around the UTA/ASC sign introducing campus, 1967.
Students line up across Cooper Street for graduation at Texas Hall, 1978.
Students on the way to class across the Mitchell Street bridge, 1984.
The celebration of the Cooper Street bridge opening included a parade of cars and plenty of students, 1990.
Student Life and Traditions
Student life at UTA has always been full of energy, spirit, and unforgettable moments. From long-standing traditions to new ways of bringing Mavericks together, campus life has evolved with every generation.
Foster Elder, North Texas Agricultural College football letterman, 1938.
Twins Warren and Harold Seay, both students of North Texas Agricultural College, escort another set of twins, Genette and Genelle Hicks, to an event, 1940.
Dancers twirl at the square dancing marathon at UTA, 1976.
David Henderson was Sam Maverick for a football game against North Texas State University, the first played at Maverick Stadium, 1980.
Bed Races, c. 1981.
Former UTA basketball player Albert Culton of the Harlem Globetrotters with Staci Hale, who attended a basketball camp with the Globetrotters at UTA, 1983.
Chris Cooper (left) and Jim Hayes go over basketball plays. Cooper was preparing for the Boston Paralympics, 1984.
Players at the annual Oozeball tournament, c. 1990.
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