University of North Texas 
119 Years of Progress
The world is a radically different place than it was in 1890.
May 15, 2009
The world is a radically different place than it was in 1890, when UNT first began training teachers to educate the children of Texas. Throughout our 119-year history, the University of North Texas has embraced progress by constantly redefining boundaries.
When UNT launched an environmental philosophy program as an expansion of our commitment
to explore water and the environment through many different lenses, we didn’t know
we were building the world’s most recognized program of its kind. We only were interested
in seeking understanding and helping to find solutions for water quality issues.
As we develop our newest Professional Science Master’s degrees, we will provide industry
with individuals who can approach business with a keen understanding of science and
technology. And as we continue our commitment to invest $25 million in collaborative
research clusters, we will help create a tomorrow that will be better than today.
As I handed diplomas to the more than 3,500 students who earned their degrees this
spring, I was filled with hope for the future. Each of these graduates is a well-educated,
prepared UNT Eagle who will succeed in business, education, science, engineering,
the arts or any field they choose because the hallmark of a UNT education is independent,
innovative critical thinking.
UNT teaches students to rely on their intellectual grounding as a basis for growth
and a way of finding solutions to modern-day challenges. Our alumni enrich and improve
local communities, expand industry and effect change throughout the world, and they
are the greatest testament to our success. Thank you for being part of our legacy.
As you read this newly defined The North Texan, I hope you find stories that show you exactly how UNT is making a difference in
our society. And I hope you are as proud as I am of our great university.
With green pride,
Gretchen M. Bataille
President