The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) and Girls Inc. of Tarrant County (GITC) celebrated the launch of a new partnership on Wednesday, April 9, aimed at empowering college-ready youth in Tarrant County. The event marked the official signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which will provide invaluable opportunities for college-ready youth to develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed in college and beyond.
This collaboration will focus on providing the necessary resources and support to help participants overcome barriers to college success. By connecting college-ready youth with UTA students and faculty, the partnership will foster academic achievement and critical reasoning through student interactions and exchanges.
“The partnership between UTA EEC and Girls Inc. of Tarrant County provides students with valuable support, resources, and mentorship as they navigate their college journey. Through early exposure to higher education, we help participants make informed decisions about their future while strengthening our shared commitment to student success,” said Teresea Madden, VP Extension and Extended Campus of UTA. “Our partnership with Girls Inc. of Tarrant County is an opportunity for us to foster new students while creating impactful opportunities that will ripple out into our community for years to come.”
College-readiness preparation is a core pillar of GITC. In 2023, 98% of Girls Inc. girls reported feeling confident they would graduate high school and 89% expected themselves to graduate from college.
“Girls Inc. of Tarrant County and UTA share a commitment to empowering youth, and this partnership is a powerful manifestation of that vision,” said Jennifer Limas, CEO of Girls Inc. of Tarrant County. “Together, we’ll provide our girls with expanded opportunities through access to college and career resources, mentorship, and inspiring role models.”
GITC’s partnership with UTA is the second of its kind. In November 2024, GITC signed an MOU with Texas Wesleyan University, marking a significant step towards empowering college-ready youth and ensuring their success. By working together, all three organizations are committed to creating a brighter future for youth in Tarrant County.
