Gems of the University

Signature Courses are unique to The University of Texas at Austin and should similarly highlight resources unique to this large research campus. The collections, tools, and artifacts at this Research I university can complement and enrich your course, while making tangible connections for your students to your course content.

Below are just some of the gems of campus, along with the appropriate contact for setting up an organized visit.

B. Iden Payne Theater

Contact: Amanda Flores, Public Affairs Specialist, 232-5337

The Nettie Lee Benson Latin American Collection

Contact: Adrian Johnson, Reference, Instruction, and Outreach Librarian, 495-4520

Blanton Museum of Art

Contact: Colette Crossman, Museum Educator for University Audiences, 471-7175
Whether you would like to schedule an introductory class visit, design an in-depth class experience based on a particular exhibition, or if you have an uncommon and innovative idea for collaboration, Blanton staff can work closely with you to build strong and creative connections between your curriculum and original works of art. For some ideas and examples, download this handout. Tips for scheduling visits: Please allow 3 weeks advance notice for guided visits, and 2 business days for self-guided visits. Museum admission is free for current UT students, faculty and staff. Faculty members may schedule a class visit online. For more information about Blanton tours, download this handout.

Dolph Briscoe Center for American History

Contact: Erin Purdy, Assistant Director of Communications, 475-4692

The Fine Arts Library

Contact: Laura Schwartz, Head Librarian, 495-4476

Harry Ransom Center

Please see web page for specific contacts
There are four distinct ways to incorporate the Ransom Center into your Signature Course: seminar room visits with faculty-selected collection materials, docent-led gallery tours, self-guided gallery tours, and reserved seating at select public programs. Each of these options has limited availability. For more details and information on types of visits the Center cannot support, please visit the Center’s Signature Course website. Please contact the Center well in advance of any visit, even if you do not plan to actively include Ransom Center staff.

Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum

Contact: Marsha Sharp, Education Specialist, 721-0195

The Performing Arts Center

Contact for tours: Erin Randell, Special Events Coordinator 471-0610

Texas Natural Science Center

Contact: Christina Cid, Director of Education, 232-5509
The Texas Natural Science Center can accommodate up to 200 students on a self-guided tour, or 50 students on a guided tour at one time. Learn more about tour options. Faculty members may schedule a visit using their online your request page .