John and Libba Massey
She was a teacher and a school board trustee; she has seen firsthand how education and great teachers can change lives. Now their generosity recognizes and supports outstanding teachers across the UT System.
Supporting Higher Education Heroes
John and Libba Massey believe that great teachers are the true heroes in our society. That's why they've created so many scholarships and awards that recognize excellence in teaching across The University of Texas System, and especially in the College of Education at The University of Texas at Austin.
"There is no more important investment than in teachers and students," says John. "The awards we've established throughout the UT System are our way of expressing appreciation for the traditions of great teaching at UT and, more specifically, to recognize and honor the great teachers of today."
Libba, who serves on the Chancellor's Council Executive Committee, knows firsthand what it takes to be a great teacher. After earning her degree from UT Austin, she went on to teach elementary and middle school and to serve as a Highland Park school board trustee. She's also chaired the College of Education Advisory Council.
"Public universities offer students the best combination of reasonable tuition and fees, with excellent professors providing challenging curricula within the confines of a comfortable geographic locale," says Libba. "And, the world-class professors which the UT System seeks to attract to Texas would not be here but for the enhancements to their research and teaching efforts they receive through grants and private endowments."
"It’s absolutely crucial that youth receive an education that allows them to enter the adult workforce and thrive in a 21st-century economy," says John. "As members of the Chancellor's Council, we're helping The University of Texas System lead that effort."