DreamWorks Technology Chief to Kick Off ATEC Lecture Series

Lincoln Wallen, one of the key tech minds behind DreamWorks Animation’s box-office successes, will open this year’s Arts and Technology Distinguished Lecture Series with a talk titled “The Technology of Animation” at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 28.

The lecture series, presented by The Dallas Morning News, will return to the Edith O’Donnell Arts and Technology Building. UT Dallas staff and faculty members can purchase up to four discount tickets for each lecture.

Wallen is DreamWorks Animation’s chief technology officer. He joined the company in 2008 as head of research and development and oversaw the creation and deployment of the studio’s computer graphics production platform and software tools. As CTO, he is responsible for providing strategic technology vision and leadership.

Magazine Tells Success Stories of Students After Graduation

The fall issue of UT Dallas Magazine arrived on campus before winter break. This issue features the successes of UT Dallas undergraduates after leaving the University and highlights treasures found in the library’s Special Collections and Archives division.

Campus distribution includes a copy to faculty and staff members through campus mail. If you didn’t receive the fall issue or would like extra copies, contact Teri Brooks in the Office of Communications. A digital version is also available online.

CARE Awards Salute Employees Who Go the Extra Mile

President David E. Daniel honored the winners of the fall 2014 CARE Awards at a Dec. 3 ceremony.

The honorees were (from left) Rick Grant, Baldemar Flores, Rachell Reilly, Czarina Cando, Linda Sensibaugh and Judy Barnes.

Student Affairs Staff Helps Families in Need

Staff from the Office of Student Affairs donated 27 homemade blankets to Hope’s Door, a shelter and counseling center serving Collin and Dallas counties, to help families in need this winter.

Student Affairs staff members made the holiday-themed fleece blankets Dec. 10 during their annual holiday luncheon, which also doubled as a service project.

Discount 2015 DART Passes Available for Staff and Faculty

UT Dallas employees may purchase discounted annual DART transit passes at the Parking and Transportation Services window in the Bursar Office.

The discounted passes will be available for $300 until Feb. 13. After Feb. 13, they will be available at the regular DART corporate rate.

To purchase an annual pass, complete a pass application, and take it with your Comet Card and payment to the Bursar Office. Your pass will be given to you at the Bursar’s window at the time of purchase.

For more information, visit the Parking and Transportation website or call (972) 883-2344.

Forum to Update Campus on Human Resources Policy Changes

The Office of Human Resources will host a forum on policy and procedure changes and updates in benefits, employee services, employee relations, institutional equity, organization development and training. Attendees will be able to learn about new programs, ask questions, offer feedback and network with colleagues. The event is from 10-11:30 a.m., Wednesday, Feb. 4, in JSOM 2.115.

New Parking Exemptions Available for Decorated Veterans

If you are a veteran and your vehicle has been issued a specialty license plate for your military service, you may be eligible to park on campus for free. Visit the Parking and Transportation website or go to the Parking Office in Parking Structure 3 to learn more.

Save the Date

  • 10-Week Wellness Challenge Getting Underway
    The kickoff event for the Live Healthy North Texas 2015 Wellness Challenge is noon-1 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 26, in Galaxy Rooms A and B. Faculty, staff and students are invited to the event hosted by the UT Dallas Wellness Committee. A free Zumba class and light lunch are scheduled. RSVP via email to [email protected] by Tuesday, Jan. 20.
  • Surplus Sale
    Surplus will hold a sale on Wednesday, Jan. 28, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Surplus Warehouse, near the Facilities Management, Police and Service buildings. The event, open to students, faculty and staff, will offer attendees the chance to buy furniture at a discount. First come, first served.
  • UT Dallas Wellness and Retirement Fair
    Learn how to become “Fit for Life” at the UT Dallas Wellness and Retirement Fair hosted by the Office of Human Resources from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 29, in the Student Union Galaxy Rooms.

Research Proposal Training Sessions

  • Coffee Break with Research Development: Common Writing Issues
    Feb. 3, 3 p.m., (CN 1.112)
    The Office of Research will discuss the most common mistakes seen in reviewing grant proposals. Though some are small, they can still derail a proposal. Contact Beth Keithly.
  • Coffee Break with Research Development: Balancing Details
    Feb. 17, 3 p.m., (CN 1.112)
    This session will discuss the importance of balancing research and logistical information in grant proposals so that neither section looks vague when compared to the other. Contact Beth Keithly.