![Ana Lopez Ana Lopez](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/21_0034_lopez-metalsmith104_fin_cs_0.jpg)
COVER STORY
Bridging the Gap
After a year of challenges created by COVID-19, educators reflect on their toughest battles -- and the implications for the future of pedagogy.
Written by: Erin Cristales
![Kayode Oluwabunmi Kayode Oluwabunmi](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/opener-20_0307_kayode-oluwabunmi0014_banner.jpg?itok=8HOlqEKg)
Research
A Safer Approach to Insulation
Researchers in UNT's College of Engineering have developed a more sustainable building product.
#Science/Research, #Campus News, #Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, #College of Engineering, #2021 Spring
![Revathi Balakrishnan Revathi Balakrishnan, center, is greeted by now President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden during the Teacher of the Year ceremony at the White House in 2016.](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/biden.jpg?itok=wODh0Kfx)
Online Extra
Lifelong Learner
Award-winning teacher Revathi Balakrishnan (’19 M.Ed.) has learned that education never stops.
Written by: Erin Cristales
![Emily Miskel Emily Miskel](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/21_0021_emily-miskel0001_thumb.jpg?itok=lHEQ0EXq)
Alumni spotlight
Courting Innovation
UNT TAMS alum Emily Miskel uses her technology know-how to preside over the first online jury trial.
Written by: Jessica DeLeón
#Alumni Profile, #TAMS, #Technology, #Texas Academy of Mathematics and Science, #Alumni Profiles, #2021 Spring
![Bronze Eagle statue against a blue sky. Bronze Eagle statue against a blue sky.](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/18_0540_campus_stock008-eagle_0.jpg?itok=1fA09hRM)
Academic Excellence
Program Rankings
The College of Education's online master's programs are among the nation's top 10.
#Campus News, #Department of Criminal Justice, #G. Brint Ryan College of Business, #College of Education, #2021 Spring
![Nicole Hernandez Nicole Hernandez](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/nicole-hernandez_thumb.jpg?itok=rdi0NFRc)
Alumni Spotlight
Journey Toward Hypnosis
UNT alum and former corporate marketer finds her passion as a hypnotist.
Written by: Brittney Dear
#Online Extras, #Frank W. and Sue Mayborn School of Journalism, #Alumni Profiles, #2021 Spring
![UNT logo on gray background UNT logo on gray background](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/stadiafeature.jpg?itok=Rkwvhq7j)
![Clement Chan Clement Chan](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/20_0324_clement_chan_2017_final.jpg?itok=-vwVtbAs)
Research
Monitoring Disease
UNT research group works on a new, more affordable method for medical tests and diagnosis.
#Department of Biological Sciences, #College of Arts & Sciences, #Campus News, #2021 Spring
![Sarah Burns Sarah Burns](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/sarah-burns_thumb_0.jpg?itok=bPPtBvqQ)
Alumni Spotlight
Survivors' Advocate
Alum uses her voice to help survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
Written by: Sydney Cooper
#Online Extras, #Frank W. and Sue Mayborn School of Journalism, #2021 Spring
![Aaron Powell Aaron Powell](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/bunch-bikes-on-shark-tank_banner.jpg?itok=vpejtv2V)
Alumni spotlight
Ride of His Life
Aaron Powell ('11) found the perfect vehicle for families and turned it into a thriving business.
Written by: Jessica DeLeón
![Mike Jones Mike Jones](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/mike-jones_banner.jpg?itok=ReePydmG)
Alumni Spotlight
Heart and 'Soul'
Alum Mike Jones has co-written the most talked-about movie of the year.
Written by: Jessica DeLeón
![Jim McIngvale Jim McIngvale](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/upfirst_jim_mcingvale_3958_final_cs_banner.jpg?itok=0WhyGkxk)
Making a Difference
Alums Help During Winter Storm
UNT grads donate water, shelter during February's extreme weather event.
![Illustration of vials in cardboard boxes Illustration of vials in cardboard boxes](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/screen_shot_2021-03-31_at_10.42.22_am.png?itok=PVyvYPYj)
Science
Distributing Vaccines
Computer program developed by UNT researchers assists state and local health agencies.
#Department of Computer Science and Engineering, #Campus News, #2021 Spring
![Ian Taylor-Schlitz Ian Taylor-Schlitz](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/kg-team-2019_banner.jpg?itok=GfYwVLPq)
Star Student
Entrepreneurial Talent
Honors College senior excels in and out of the classroom at young age.
Written by: Ta'Corian Tilley
![Blond female student in green North Texas sweatshirt walks in front of the University Union holding a bag. Blond female student in green North Texas sweatshirt walks in front of the University Union holding a bag.](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/20_0230_fall_stock17_composite.jpg?itok=AhOWyxRA)
Partnership
New Opportunities
UNT and Frisco ISD are teaming up to offer students a head start on a college degree.
![James Hampton James Hampton](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/james-hampton-book-cover.jpg?itok=Lzg9kFo-)
Alumni spotlight
The Stories Behind the Stories
James Hampton made his mark in Hollywood -- and now he's sharing his memories in a new memoir.
Written by: Jessica DeLeón
#College of Arts & Sciences, #Department of Dance and Theatre, #Alumni Profiles, #2021 Spring
![Hadidja Nyiransekuye Hadidja Nyiransekuye](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/upfirst_socialworker_thumb.jpg?itok=pqwsV-MS)
Outstanding Faculty
Social Worker of the Year
Assistant professor honored for work in policy advocacy focusing of refugee crises.
Written by: Trista Moxley
#Campus News, #College of Health and Public Service, #2021 Spring
![Yijie Jiang stands in a gray suit on campus. Yijie Jiang stands in a gray suit on campus.](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/20_jiang_3947_final_h_copy.jpg?itok=MG2beZvW)
Outstanding Faculty
Powe Award Winner
Yijie Jiang earns praise for his research from Oak Ridge Associated Universities.
#Science/Research, #Campus News, #Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, #College of Engineering, #2021 Spring
![Kia Davis stands against a wall in shadow. Kia Davis stands against a wall in shadow.](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/img_11651.jpg?itok=1UhJgelo)
Alumni Spotlight
From the Runway, a Mission Takes Off
Alum’s charity fashion show supports domestic violence and sexual assault survivors.
Written by: Erin Cristales
![Students walk past the Hurley Administration Building on a sunny day. Students walk past the Hurley Administration Building on a sunny day.](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/16_407_campus_stock_gb002.jpg?itok=knXnaF0c)
New Program
Expanded Access
UNT ELEVAR program is designed for young adults with intellectual disabilities.
![Bone Hampton Bone Hampton](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/bone-hampton-agt-2_thumb.jpg?itok=cdVrU1fR)
Alumni spotlight
Funny Bone
From an extra on "Necessary Roughness," comedian Bone Hampton has made a clean career in comedy.
Written by: Jessica DeLeón
#Department of Emergency Management and Disaster Science, #College of Health and Public Service, #Alumni Profiles, #2021 Spring
![The light sculpture “This Present Moment” The light sculpture “This Present Moment”](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/upfirst_thispresentmoment1_thumb.jpg?itok=Z1SSdYX3)
Outstanding Faculty
Art Achievement
Alicia Eggert's light sculpture "This Present Moment" has been acquired by the Smithsonian.
#Department of Studio Art, #Campus News, #College of Visual Arts and Design, #2021 Spring
![Haifeng Zhang stands in his lab. Haifeng Zhang stands in his lab.](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/screen_shot_2021-03-31_at_11.01.09_am.png?itok=PF9PaMd-)
Research
In-Situ Sensors
Haifeng Zhang is a co-PI in a new $1 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy.
#Science/Technology, #Campus News, #Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, #College of Engineering, #2021 Spring
![Trey Haley Trey Haley](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/trey-hayley-330-by-jonavennci-divad_banner.jpg?itok=Ro0ERRic)
Alumni Spotlight
Taking Care of Business
Trey Haley draws on his UNT education and optimism to build a career as a Hollywood filmmaker.
Written by: Jessica DeLeón
#Department of Radio, Television and Film, #Alumni Profiles, #2021 Spring
![Joseph Oppong stands in a pink shirt and beige jacket in front of a group of trees. Joseph Oppong stands in a pink shirt and beige jacket in front of a group of trees.](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/046a9941.jpg?itok=Y-72wYOs)
Outstanding Faculty
Major Honor
Joseph Oppong recently received top award from American Association of Geographers.
![Veronique Medrano Veronique Medrano](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/veronique-medrano_banner.jpg?itok=gz1U8fl8)
Alumni Spolight
Musician, Educator and Preservationist
Veronique Medrano not only plays Tejano music, but she's studying to preserve its history.
Written by: Jessica DeLeón
![Expert Take - Successful Goal Setting illustration of faculty Expert Take - Successful Goal Setting illustration of faculty](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/savoie.jpg?itok=5lRKlbdC)
Expert Take
Successful Goal Setting
From health and fitness to career aspirations, tips for achieving your objectives.
Written by: Erin Cristales
#Department of Kinesiology, Health Promotion and Recreation, #Features, #G. Brint Ryan College of Business, #2021 Spring
![Wonbong Choi Wonbong Choi](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/20_0240_choi_jiang_4319_final_thumb.jpg?itok=bbHA8V1u)
Research
Major Grant
Researchers work to advance 3D printed materials for automotive body frames with $1.5 million grant.
#Science/Research, #Campus News, #College of Engineering, #2021 Spring
![The 40-Year Friendship The 40-Year Friendship](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/no-words-collage-option-3rev1.jpg?itok=3iZk7fbh)
Alumni life
The 40-Year Friendship
Eight women met at North Texas in 1980 -- and their bond is stronger than ever.
Written by: Jessica DeLeón
![Harold and Tina Larimer Harold and Tina Larimer](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/harold-and-tina-larimer-1940s_thumb.jpg?itok=XUK806ix)
![Mean Green Mobile Media truck and trailer Mean Green Mobile Media truck and trailer](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/mean-green-mobile-media_banner.jpg?itok=d_g1Srd-)
Social impact
Mean Green Mobile Media
Diamond Eagles Society to help provide educational experiences and virtual access to events.
#Journalism, #Social Impact, #UNT News, #Frank W. and Sue Mayborn School of Journalism, #2021 Spring
![Richard Dixon Richard Dixon in a UNT greenhouse](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/2019-spring_richard-dixon_319.jpg?itok=HP0rt8Xs)
Research
Plant Discovery
Richard Dixon's lab is helping to develop biomass crops better suited for processing.
#Department of Biological Sciences, #Science/Research, #College of Arts & Sciences, #Campus News, #2021 Spring
![Orion Nebula Orion Nebula](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/m42-orion-nebula-apod-p5nqrm3.jpg?itok=WP0IQhxO)
Innovation Spotlight
Turbulent Motion Moves Research Forward
UNT researchers have discovered young stars are dancing to a secret cosmic tune.
#Science/Research, #Campus News, #Department of Physics, #2021 Spring
![Xavier Henderson Xavier Henderson](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/21-0038_xavier_henderson_1521_banner.jpg?itok=puYs1bgY)
Alumni Spotlight
In This Neighborhood, Beautiful Days Ahead
Alum lands on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 Social Impact list for his commitment to improving lives.
Written by: Erin Cristales
#Social Impact, #Department of Communication Studies, #Features, #2021 Spring
![Spidey 2.0 Spidey 2.0](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/upfirst_spiderman.jpg?itok=pe8Mh_BU)
![1891 photo 1891 photo](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/upfirst_archive_thumb.jpg?itok=aXXSF7vh)
History
1891 Photo Added to UNT Archive
The picture is now the oldest available in UNT's Special Collections.
![The Diary of Anne Frank staged through Zoom The Diary of Anne Frank staged through Zoom](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/anne-frank-1_thumb.jpg?itok=NDs_iSBc)
Creative endeavors
Moving as the World Stopped
Artists in the UNT community find ways to produce their work even during a pandemic.
Written by: Jessica DeLeón
#culture, #College of Arts & Sciences, #Department of Library and Information Sciences, #Department of Dance and Theatre, #College of Music, #2021 Spring
![Mean Green men's basketball jumps into the air after beating Purdue in the first round of the NCAA championship. Mean Green men's basketball jumps into the air after beating Purdue in the first round of the NCAA championship.](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/img_30556.jpg?itok=r6zpmdyo)
Mean Green
History Made
This year’s C-USA champs, men’s basketball wins their first NCAA tournament game.
![Experiences of Hunger and Food Insecurity in College Experiences of Hunger and Food Insecurity in College](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/71xd7lpsijl_thumb.jpg?itok=a45M24_W)
Faculty Books
Food Insecurity, Cats and the Flow System
Three UNT professors tackle a variety of topics in their new books.
![Jazzy Baptiste Jazzy Baptiste](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/jazzy-baptiste_thumb.jpg?itok=d1ZNO0Zn)
Alumni Spotlight
Showcasing All Colors
UNT alum was featured in Forbes this year for his up-and-coming beauty business.
Written by: Brittney Dear
#College of Arts & Sciences, #Department of Political Science, #Frank W. and Sue Mayborn School of Journalism, #Alumni Profiles, #2021 Spring
![Jermaine Stegal Jermaine Stegal](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/jermaine-stegall_banner.jpg?itok=YOJzEkzr)
Online Extra
American Dream
Jermaine Stegall reaches his goal to compose films with the release of "Coming 2 America."
Written by: Jessica DeLeón
![Graphic depicting interconnectivity between devices Graphic depicting interconnectivity between devices](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/istock-989479924_banner.jpg?itok=cRoTxY8X)
Research Feature
Advancing Intelligent Mobility
UNT researchers work together to deploy intelligent mobility systems in rural and urban settings.
Written by: Amy Brundeen
#Science/Research, #Features, #G. Brint Ryan College of Business, #College of Engineering, #College of Health and Public Service, #2021 Spring
![light bulb representing an idea](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/istock-1252736548_0.jpg?itok=igh4WQWZ)
Faculty News
Time to Create
Three UNT professors receive fellowship to pursue creative ideas.
#UNT News, #Music, #Visual Arts, #Dance & Theatre, #2021 Spring
![Lecrae Moore Lecrae Moore](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/lecrae.jpg?itok=DOxBNXOJ)
Awards
Grammys Gold Rush
UNT alumni, faculty reap nominations in an array of categories.
Written by: Heather Noel
![Picture of students walking outside of UNT campus with the sculpture "Shield" in the foreground and trees on both sides.](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/union-stock_0020_0.jpg?itok=jDoYQV9W)
UNT Alumni Association
Board of Directors Creates New Scholarship
The organization wants to creates a "perpetual scholarship machine."
#UNT Alumni Association, #UNT Alumni Association, #2021 Spring
![From left, Sampath Pamidimukkala, A.K. Mago and Nishi Bhatia From left, Sampath Pamidimukkala, A.K. Mago and Nishi Bhatia](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/cmht_21_0049_mago_groceries_221_00491.jpg?itok=iOBOb7V7)
Outreach
Generous Donation
In this challenging time, the UNT community's caring spirit has continued to shine brightly.
Written by: Heather Noel
#Campus News, #College of Merchandising, Hospitality and Tourism, #2021 Spring
![Qing Yang and Song Fu Qing Yang and Song Fu](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/20-0223_yangfu_autonomous_vehicle_banner.jpg?itok=HQlcP0DB)
Technology
Integrated Smart Transportation
UNT team lead the U.S. in developing an autonomous vehicle cyber infrastructure.
Written by: Amy Brundeen
#Science/Technology, #Department of Computer Science and Engineering, #Features, #College of Engineering, #2021 Spring
![Horace and Euline Brock Horace and Euline Brock](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/13-291_brock_portrait_008_banner.jpg?itok=LvRXJMby)
Giving Impact
Transforming Legacy
The late Horace Brock and Euline Brock ('74 Ph.D.) leave a legacy to UNT.
Written by: Amanda Yanowski
![Anna Barringer surrounded by a group of women Anna Barringer surrounded by a group of women](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/annabarringer4.jpg?itok=fGMs22Wt)
Alumni Spotlight
The Femme Fatale
UNT alumna Anna Barringer ('18) creates a global community for women.
Written by: Sydney Cooper
#Alumni Profile, #Department of Communication Studies, #Online Extras, #Department of Psychology, #2021 Spring
![UNT ambassador and student UNT ambassador and student](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/20_0215_transfer-ambassador0069.jpg?itok=TnuhwwgH)
Scholarships
Increased Funds for Transfer Students
Students arriving at UNT will be considered for enhanced scholarship opportunities.
![Photo of Taryn Souders](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/taryn_souders.jpeg?itok=ZdHpN3Kb)
Alumni spotlight
Formula for Success
Taryn Souders ('01) draws on her former career as a math teacher for her children's books.
Written by: Jessica DeLeón
#Alumni Spotlight, #culture, #Books, #Department of Teacher Education and Administration, #College of Education, #2021 Spring
![UNT President Neal Smatresk UNT President Neal Smatresk](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/neal_circle.png?itok=t1HA1nkP)
From Our President
Social Mobility Elevator
For 130 years, UNT has helped students push creative boundaries and transform the world.
![Flight training Flight training](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/19-0366_-tcc-aviation-camp_279_banner.jpg?itok=NAl7qFNi)
Retrospective
Aviation Program Has Helped Students Soar
Now in its 10th year, its graduates have helped deliver supplies.
![Mary Lou Davis Mary Lou Davis](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/hk-s19_mary-lou-davis_mb0348_thumb.jpg?itok=hbLQBP2z)
Alumni spotlight
To "Hell" and Back
Chef Mary Lou Davis ('13) learned much from her stint on the reality show "Hell's Kitchen."
Written by: Jessica DeLeón
#culture, #College of Merchandising, Hospitality and Tourism, #Alumni Profiles, #2021 Spring
![Car dashboard with a green ecology button Car dashboard with a green ecology button](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/istock-473989528_cmyk_hn_thumb.jpg?itok=FbYwGqMj)
Transportation
Green Goals
The UNT Police Department is moving toward a green fleet with six new hybrid police vehicles.
![LAN board LAN board](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/21-0037_lan_45_banner.jpg?itok=UPybQ3DA)
Giving Impact
Latinx Alumni Network
New Latinx Alumni Network supports student success.
Written by: Amanda Yanowski
![The Chamber art The Chamber art](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/perspective_stout_thumb.jpg?itok=FCT7ojdi)
Perspective
Art for the Community
College of Visual Arts and Design faculty and staff create installation for drive-thru exhibition.
![First Generation Success Center First Generation Success Center](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/21-0042-first-gen-center0054_banner.jpg?itok=A-gR1nhf)
Brilliantly Green
First Generation Success Center
New campus resource for supporting first-generation students.
![Power Trip Power Trip band members](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/power-trip-color_thumb.jpg?itok=Y0KRj3Ts)
Alumni spotlight
Power of Words and Music
Guitarist Blake Ibanez relishes the band Power Trip's Grammy Award nomination.
Written by: Jessica DeLeón
#Alumni Spotlight, #culture, #Music, #Department of English, #G. Brint Ryan College of Business, #College of Music, #Alumni Profiles, #2021 Spring
![Prasanna Aryal Prasanna Aryal](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/prasanna-aryal_banner.jpg?itok=ZKkSwq4O)
Alumni Spotlight
Alum Launches Successful Franchise
Any way you slice it, Prasanna Aryal ('10) is one outstanding pizza entrepreneur.
Written by: Kayla Green
#Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, #College of Engineering, #Alumni Profiles, #2021 Spring
![A Lily Among Thorns cast A Lily Among Thorns cast](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/dbp-1_banner2.jpg?itok=igsEmZD2)
Alumni Spotlight
Bloom and Create
UNT alumni spearhead an organization that makes opera accessible.
Written by: Jessica DeLeón
![Grace Weatherly Grace Weatherly](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/2018-color_thumb.jpg?itok=H1iDsQsv)
Alumni Spotlight
High Honors
Alumna nominated as the 65th president of the American Board of Trial Advocates.
Written by: Brittney Dear
#Department of Marketing & Logistics, #Department of Management, #G. Brint Ryan College of Business, #Alumni Profiles, #2021 Spring
![Shamsy Roomiani Shamsy Roomiani](http://northtexan.unt.edu/sites/default/files/styles/image_ratio/public/portrait-of-shamsy-by-exploredinary_banner.jpg?itok=VNNFzFcU)