Mavericks support the dreams of future generations

Pat and Mike O’Neill dedicated their professional endeavors to higher education and the development of students. In honor of their lifelong service to student growth, the couple has made a significant bequest to The University of Texas at Arlington.

Pat and Mike met as graduate students at Long Island University, bonding over a shared passion for the liberal arts. They previously established the O’Neill Graduate Teaching Assistant Award in English at UTA to support graduate students in the Department of English and hope their estate gift casts a wide net of support for additional student resources, as they are drawn to investing in the study of liberal arts for all students.

“Although there is a great emphasis on science, particularly given the age we live in, there has to be a philosophical background that informs the decisions that students will make for themselves and their communities,” Pat says. “I believe the liberal arts helps people make good decisions for themselves and for their communities.”

Pat retired from UTA as assistant vice president for student affairs in 2008 after 28 years at the University. She said she particularly enjoyed managing student programming and serving as a staff adviser for academic groups.

“We have students that work very hard, very long, and somehow still find the time to do activities outside of class,” Pat says. “It is so wonderful to see everyone working on interdisciplinary projects at the University library.”

For more information on how you can establish your legacy at UTA through a bequest or other planned giving option, visit uta.giftlegacy.com or email giftandestateplanning@uta.edu.