The University of Texas at Austin Athletics
4EVER TEXAS Student-Athlete Development
Preparing Longhorns for tomorrow, starting today.
About
Established in 2019, the 4EVER TEXAS Student-Athlete Development Program Office builds on decades of student-athlete development within the Intercollegiate Athletics Department at The University of Texas at Austin.
4EVER TEXAS is a comprehensive and transformational program designed to educate, equip, and empower Longhorn student-athletes for success during their time at Texas and beyond.
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide student-athletes with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to successfully transition from collegiate sport and create meaningful impact in their lives and communities.
We accomplish our mission by providing intentional learning experiences that strengthen character and foster meaningful connections with UT staff, faculty, alumni, and industry professionals.
Our Vision
We envision every student-athlete using their time at UT to identify purposeful ways to apply their transferable talents and positively impact the world after collegiate sport.
Our Approach
4EVER TEXAS aligns with national best practices and professional standards in student-athlete development, including frameworks established by the NCAA, NACE, and the National Association of Academic and Student-Athlete Development Professionals (N4A).
Our Foundation
The 4EVER TEXAS model was introduced in Fall 2019, building on a longstanding commitment to student-athlete development at Texas. The program name and initial framework were developed by Kevin Washington (KWash), Director of Player Development for Football, and later expanded to serve all Texas student-athletes.
This approach builds on the legacy of the AfterTexas program, led by Dr. Christina “Tina” Kien, which supported student-athletes in leadership, community engagement, and career development from 1999–2020.
The 4 Pillars of Development
4EVER TEXAS is built on a structured model that prepares student-athletes for success during and beyond their time at Texas.
Through four interconnected pillars, student-athletes engage in intentional experiences that support their growth as individuals, leaders, and professionals.
Each pillar represents a key area of development and works together to guide student-athletes through a progression; from building a strong foundation to confidently launching into their future.
CHARACTER - Build from who you are.
The CHARACTER pillar focuses on developing self-awareness, leadership, and overall well-being to prepare student-athletes for success in all areas of life
Student-athletes learn to identify their values, strengths, and identity; building from within to develop self-regulation strategies, prioritize their well-being, foster healthy relationships, and lead with confidence through challenges.
CURRENCY - Learn how to manage and leverage your resources.
The CURRENCY pillar focuses on building financial knowledge and decision-making skills while preparing student-athletes to manage and maximize their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities
Student-athletes learn to budget, save, spend, and plan for their future; while developing the ability to evaluate opportunities, understand financial risk, and make informed decisions that support long-term stability.
COMMUNITY - Create impact beyond yourself.
The COMMUNITY pillar focuses on engaging student-athletes in meaningful service and civic opportunities that create positive impact beyond sport.
Student-athletes learn to engage with domestic and global communities, understand social responsibility, and contribute through volunteer service; developing the ability to lead with compassion, build relationships, and create meaningful and lasting impact.
CAREER - Launch into life after collegiate sport.
The CAREER pillar focuses on helping student-athletes explore opportunities, build professional skills, and take action toward their first-destination career plans.
Student-athletes learn to explore career paths, build professional relationships, and develop transferable workplace skills, while gaining experience, navigating the job search process, and preparing for a confident transition into life after collegiate sport.
How the Program Works
The 4EVER TEXAS program is designed to provide structure and meaningful opportunities for student-athlete development. Each academic year, student-athletes engage in workshops, events, and experiential learning opportunities aligned with the four pillars of development.
Student-athletes are expected to actively participate across key areas (including career development, financial empowerment, leadership development, Name Image & Likeness education, health & wellness, and community service) to strengthen their preparation for life after the Forty Acres.
While we provide a clear framework for holistic development, student-athletes have the flexibility to choose experiences that align with their interests, goals, and stage of growth. This approach allows each student-athlete to take ownership of their development while working toward defined expectations.
Through a combination of high-impact experiences and consistent engagement over time, student-athletes build skills, form meaningful connections, and take action toward their future.
What We Offer
4EVER TEXAS provides a wide range of intentional learning experiences designed to support student-athlete development across all four pillars.
Opportunities include:
- Workshops & Skill-Building Sessions - Interactive sessions focused on leadership, wellness, career readiness, and financial empowerment
- Student-Athlete Career & Internship Fair - Direct access to employers, alumni, and professional opportunities
- Career Treks & Office Visits - Opportunities to explore industries and connect with professionals in real-world environments
- Networking & Alumni Engagement - Meaningful connections with Longhorn alumni, donors, and industry professionals
- Community Service & Impact Opportunities - Local and global experiences that allow student-athletes to create positive impact
- International & Experiential Learning Opportunities - Immersive experiences that expand perspective and personal growth
- 1-on-1 Coaching & Mentorship - Personalized support in career planning, financial literacy, NIL, and professional development
Get Involved
Support the development of Longhorn student-athletes by sharing your time, expertise, and opportunities.
Alumni Engagement
Volunteer your time to the Longhorn network by sharing your experience and network with current student-athletes.
Opportunities may include resume reviews, informational interviews, speaking, networking, mentoring, and providing career and professional development support.
→ Interest Form Coming Soon
Employer & Partner Engagement
Connect with student-athletes through career opportunities and experiential learning.
Opportunities may include offering internships or full-time roles, hosting site visits or job shadowing experiences, and participating in career events.
→ Interest Form Coming Soon
Request a Student-Athlete Appearance
Non-profit organizations may request a student-athlete appearance for community events.
Submit a request → http://www.texaslonghorns.com/athleteappearance
If you are interested in supporting 4EVER TEXAS, please contact our team directly at: 4EVERTEXAS@athletics.utexas.edu