The Agatha and Anthony Precourt University Lecture Series
Designed to create a campus-wide conversation, the Agatha and Anthony Precourt University Lecture Series gives first-year students an opportunity to interact with leading members of our faculty—scholars, scientists, and civic leaders who are nationally and internationally renowned. All students, faculty, alumni, staff, and community guests are invited, but the events will be aimed at entering first-year students. The Agatha and Anthony Precourt University Lecture Series is made possible by a generous gift from the Precourt Family.
Spring 2026 University Lecture Series
This spring, we continue our ULS theme of You Belong Here: Cultivating Community in a Changing World & Connection and Care on Campus. Through this series, we hope to highlight the importance of belonging and provide insights, stories, and strategies from experts who can help students begin to navigate and discover their place in the Longhorn community from the very start.
Night 1 - Cultivating Community in a Changing World
Featured Lecturer: Dr. Nik Palomares, Moody College of Communication
Wednesday, March 25th
San Jacinto Multipurpose Room
Doors open at 6:30pm, lecture starts at 7:00pm, followed by a Q&A that will end by 8:00pm
Night 1 will invite attendees to reflect on how we build meaningful connections in new and evolving environments. This evening’s lecture will explore how students communicate with one another through social media and how they can maintain their psychological well-being while building a new local network. Forming relationships both online and in person, often includes challenges in balancing digital connection with healthy boundaries and self-care. This event offers practical insight in how to navigate digital spaces thoughtfully, fostering meaningful relationships while supporting your own sense of belonging and well-being.
Night 2 – Connection and Care on Campus
Featured Lecturer: Dr. Lara Latimer, College of Education
Tuesday, March 31st
WCP Auditorium, 1.402
Doors open at 6:30pm, lecture starts at 7:00pm, followed by a Q&A that will end by 8:00pm
Night 2 explores how students can care for their mental health and adopt healthy stress management strategies throughout college. It is normal and quite common for students to experience stress, feelings of inadequacy, or overwhelm by the demands of colligate life. Whether you're seeking better understanding of your stress or looking to build habits that support a strong sense of confidence and resiliency, you are not alone. This event will provide valuable insights in personal care and collective understanding of the challenges of the college experience.