UT Rio Grande Valley Foundation

Who we are.

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Foundation is an independent non-profit organization incorporated in the State of Texas under the Revenue Code Section 501 (c)(3). The Foundation exists solely for the benefit of The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and operates under a Memorandum of Understanding. By maintaining an independent Board of Trustees, the Foundation can involve volunteers in its fundraising efforts. All funds raised and managed by the Foundation are used per donors’ wishes to enhance the university’s academic, research, and public service programs.

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is one of the nation’s premier Hispanic-serving institutions and one of the fastest-growing universities in the UT System. As a four-year, state- supported institution with 31,864 students (Fall 2023) and growing, UTRGV has received national recognition for its commitment to making higher education accessible, achievable, and affordable. For the 2023-2024 academic year, UTRGV was ranked the #1 University in Texas, along with the #1 rankings in Texas for the lowest net price of attendance, performance of Pell Grant students, and best social mobility. * With student success at the heart of our university, our mission is to empower and prepare the next generation of leaders and innovators to transform The Future of Texas.

*Awarded by the Washington Monthly

About UTRGV.

Over its 90-year history, UTRGV has experienced significant transformations, including several name changes that reflect its expanding mission and reach. In 1952, the institution was known as Edinburg College, which evolved into Pan American College in 1956, when it began offering bachelor’s degree programs. As educational demands grew and the institution made graduate degree programs available, the name changed to Pan American University in 1971.

One of the most pivotal moments for the university was in 1989 when it became a part of the prestigious University of Texas System and adopted the name The University of Texas Pan- American. In 2012, the University of Texas System Board of Regents approved a visionary plan to expand higher education in the Rio Grande Valley significantly. This historic decision led to a Medical School and new campuses in the three-county region, significantly expanding UTRGV’s presence and impact.

In 2015, to reflect its continued growth and influence throughout the Rio Grande Valley, the institution was officially renamed UTRGV. The following year, the former campus of The University of Texas at Brownsville joined the UTRGV family, solidifying the university’s commitment to serving the entire region. Today, UTRGV boasts a diverse network of teaching sites spread across Hidalgo, Cameron, and Starr counties.