Spirit of Excellence: The 2025 Distinguished Alumnus Awards
Beneath the warm glow of chandeliers in the historic Shirley Bird Perry Ballroom at the Texas Union, more than 600 people gathered on Nov. 21, 2025, for the Texas Exes’ most anticipated celebration—the Distinguished Alumnus Awards. Now in its 66th year, this annual tradition honors The University of Texas’ most accomplished graduates with the highest recognition awarded by the Forty Acres.
The six honorees reflect the spirit of excellence that defines UT, shining through their professional achievements, community leadership, and service to the University. As University President Jim Davis, BA ’96, Life Member, stated in his opening remarks, “Our University bestows many well-deserved honors, but there is something truly distinct and special about wearing that orange jacket.”
Newly clad in those well-earned, burnt-orange jackets, each of these inspiring alumni endeared the crowd of friends, family, and fellow Distinguished Alumni with words of wisdom and gratitude.
Fran Harris
BJ ’87, MA ’91, MSTC ’18, Life Member
Founder, Broadcaster, WNBA Champion
Austin, TX
“To the Precursors—who marched in this city and on this campus so that I could one day run, play basketball, win championships, and earn three degrees at this University—I stand on your shoulders, and I lift as I climb.”
Gary Farmer
BBA ’80, JD ’84, Life Member
President, Heritage Title Company of Austin, Inc.
Austin, TX
“What starts here’ is our calling card. It’s our mission statement, and it’s our parting gift for those we have encountered along the way.”
Del Williams
BBA ’83, JD ’85, Life Member
General Counsel of Hillwood, a Perot Company
Dallas, TX
“Public higher education, and The University of Texas specifically, changed the trajectory of my family’s life. I can never repay what the University has done for us, but I won’t stop trying.”
Richard J. Reddick
BA ’95, Life Member
Senior Vice Provost and Dean of the Undergraduate College, The University of Texas at Austin
Austin, TX
“Let’s commit to really get to know each other, despite our differences. We need to do this to show the next generation how to solve the challenges that lie ahead. The eyes of the next generation are upon us. Hook ’em!”
Bill Gurley
MBA ’93, Life Member
General Partner, Benchmark Capital
Austin, TX
“I have a challenge for all the recipients and myself included: We still have a lot of time left to dent the universe. Please keep after it. Hook ’em Horns.”
Lynn Utter
BBA ’84, Life Member
Corporate Executive
Breckenridge, CO
“The University expanded my horizons in ways I never imagined. It helped me navigate this crazy solar system of trying to be an executive and a wife and a mother and a Texas Ex. It’s a potent mix, and I am so grateful to so many who have been on this journey.”
CREDIT: Matt Wright-Steel
