The University of Texas System

Mission Statement

The Office of Federal Relations (OFR) serves as the primary liaison between the UT System and Members of Congress, congressional staff, the White House and federal agencies on issues related to higher education and health policy.

Led by Vice Chancellor William H. Shute, OFR’s mission is to promote UT System’s research, education, patient care, and public service activities in an effort to increase federal support for all 15 campuses.  OFR provides support and service to our institutions by:  strategic planning and issues management; responding to legislative inquiries; monitoring and analysis of federal legislation; identifying opportunities for our faculty to participate in congressional hearings, executive branch advisory groups and task forces, and national education forums; and promoting UT System campuses’ research and policy agendas with agencies and Congressional members. 

The Office of Federal Relations is also working to identify and nurture future leaders in Texas.  OFR manages the Bill Archer Center, which gives students throughout the System an opportunity to intern and study in D.C.  All nine academic institutions have participated in the Archer Center and we hope to expand the program in the near future.

The Office of Federal Relations is open to UT System students, faculty, and staff who are visiting the area.