A Message from Dr. Musselman

Signs of Growth Sprout All Around Us

January 21, 2026

The words of Benjamin Franklin still educate us today:

“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.”

The University of Texas at Dallas has invested heavily in its faculty, staff and students, and they have paid us back tenfold with their achievements.

We marvel at the research breakthroughs, imaginative new programs and many examples of our students’ academic excellence, which have combined to thrust UT Dallas into the upper echelon of public universities in the United States.

We will never take them for granted.

And as the Spring 2026 semester unfolds and our latest campus improvements graduate from fanciful dreams to fantastical realities, we are confident that thoughts of utilizing them will bring a smile to the faces of everyone who views their looming presence.

Most noticeable, of course, is the 360,000-square-foot Student Success Center/Student Union, which includes an arena-style classroom that is sure to become an iconic destination.

The entire facility undoubtedly will be one of our most cherished spaces, brimming with activity and enthusiasm.

But I also am excited about the benefits of our two other major construction projects: Phase II of the Edith and Peter O’Donnell Jr. Athenaeum, and the 125,000-square-foot addition to the Naveen Jindal School of Management (JSOM).

Music students will benefit greatly from the rehearsal rooms and classrooms in the Athenaeum’s Phase II, and everyone will get to enjoy the 680-seat, state-of-the-art performance hall.

Everyone in JSOM, meanwhile, is sure to delight in the space and flexibility of their new building, which will anchor the southeast corner of campus with style and verve.

Thoughts of what’s ahead bring to mind another Ben Franklin quote:

“Without continual growth and progress, such words as improvement, achievement and success have no meaning.”

UT Dallas is defined by its dedication to growth and progress. Our investment continues to pay the best interest.