University of North Texas

President V. Lane Rawlins’ Sept. 7 annual convocation address filled the University Union’s Silver Eagle Suite with laughter, applause and a serious outline for future success.

Rawlins discussed the university’s achievements in 2011-11, and explained four goals that will form the strategic plan and support the university's growth.

Rawlins said the university seeks to be or provide:

• Goal 1: Best undergraduate institution in Texas
• Goal 2: Leading university in faculty research and scholarship
• Goal 3: Focus on excellence and good management of resources
• Goal 4: Engage the community by using our resources to strengthen the region and the state 

“All of these things are related,” Rawlins said. “All of these things are tied together. These are not four objectives. This is what it takes to be a major, world-class university - to do all of these things and to do them well. If you try to separate out one, you lose. You can't do this without broad-based political support. You can't do it without reaching out to your community. You can't do it without great faculty. You can't do it without a commitment to teaching. All of these things are part of the same thing. It's our intent to become the major educational force in this region.”

The annual welcome-and-review gathering also featured the Top 10 university achievements, gleaned from suggestions from faculty and staff, comments from Head Football Coach Dan McCarney, whose team opens UNT Apogee Stadium Sept. 10, and a room-filling fight song serenade by the Green Brigade Marching Band.

• Find a transcript of Rawlins’ convocation address and Top 10 Accomplishments.
• Find photos in Share Photos.

(Photos by Jonathan Reynolds)