The University of Texas at Austin Welcomes New Longhorns with Spirit, Pride, and Purpose During Unforgettable Orientation Week
AUSTIN, TX – July 11, 2025
The Forty Acres were alive with energy, burnt orange pride, and an unmistakable sense of unity this week as the University of Texas at Austin hosted its largest-ever freshman orientation event, welcoming over 10,000 new Longhorns in a dazzling celebration of tradition, ambition, and belonging.
Dubbed “Longhorn Launch Week,” the multi-day event featured a powerful blend of academic preparation, spirited campus tours, cultural showcases, and electrifying pep rallies. Held under the theme “With Spirit, Pride, and Purpose,” this year’s orientation saw an unprecedented fusion of heritage and innovation as students from all 50 states and 27 countries arrived on campus to begin their UT journey.
President Jay Hartzell kicked off the week with a stirring keynote at the Moody Center, emphasizing UT’s legacy of excellence, impact, and inclusivity. “You’re not just joining a university,” Hartzell declared. “You’re becoming part of a movement—a global network of thinkers, leaders, dreamers, and doers. At Texas, what starts here changes the world.”
The event hit peak emotion during the “Texas Torchlight Procession,” where freshmen marched across the Main Mall to the iconic Tower, led by the Longhorn Band and cheer squad, followed by a ceremonial lighting of the tower in burnt orange. Thousands cheered as Bevo made a special appearance alongside Hook ‘Em, bringing joy to students and families alike.
Workshops on academic success, mental wellness, and leadership development ran alongside breakout sessions for student organizations and Greek life, helping students find their fit early. Over 300 campus groups participated in the “Burnt Orange Fair,” offering everything from robotics to salsa dancing.
As orientation wrapped, excitement surged for the upcoming football season and the transition to the SEC. Head Coach Steve Sarkisian made a surprise appearance at the closing rally, declaring, “This class of Longhorns is stepping into greatness—on and off the field.”
With a bold step into the future, the Class of 2029 has arrived—and the spirit of Texas has never burned brighter.
