On Wednesday, April 16, 2025, the Tower will shine burnt orange lights to celebrate a remarkable legacy that has changed the lives of thousands of Longhorns over the past nearly 40 years.

Since 1987, the Terry Foundation and the visionary spirit of its founders, Howard L. Terry (BBA 1938) and his wife, Nancy, has supported Texas students through last-dollar scholarships, making it possible for them to attend college without the burden of debt.

This academic year, 192 Terry Scholars are walking our campus, learning, leading and serving — many of them first-generation students who have faced adversity with resilience, grace, and determination. Through the Terry Scholars program, they are not only earning a degree — they are gaining a community, a purpose and the power to change the world.

Howard Terry, a self-made businessman born in Milam County in 1916, had a football scholarship to UT. He once said receiving that scholarship was one of the most important events in his life. In the spirit of paying it forward, the Terry Scholarship offers exceptional Texas high school graduates and transfer students assistance to cover tuition, books and living costs. The Terry Foundation’s goal is to foster enterprise by “helping Texas college students to help themselves.”

Overall, the Terry Foundation has provided more than $100 million in scholarships to UT students. To celebrate this milestone, hundreds of current scholars, alumni, staff, faculty and members of the Terry Foundation Board will gather for a photo in front of the Tower.