Texas Exes Black Alumni Network Precursors Legacy Gala

The Precursors are defined as the first Black undergraduates to enroll at The University of Texas at Austin in 1956. This year marks 70 years since they first set foot on campus. Their courage paved the way for us to attend, graduate, and come back to the 40 acres to call it home.

The Texas Exes Black Alumni Network is pleased to welcome our fellow Longhorn alumni, students, and sponsors to the Precursors Legacy Gala: Celebrating the First, Inspiring the Next. Join us as we honor the Precursors’ legacy, celebrate 70 years of Black Longhorns, and raise $70,000 for Black student scholarships.

The Precursors Legacy Gala Details:

This year, The Precursors Legacy Gala will be on Friday, October 23rd, 2026. (Not during the Texas Black Homecoming festivities in September.)

Location: Etter-Harbin Alumni Center, 2110 San Jacinto Blvd, Austin, TX 78712

Date: Friday, October 23rd, 2026

Time: 6:00 - 9:30 pm

6 pm: The gala reception will be held in the pre-function area outside of the Connally Ballroom. A cashless bar will be available.

7 pm: The Precursors Legacy Gala will commence in the Connally Ballroom with a three-course plated dinner served. Vegan/vegetarian meal will be available.

Hotel Room Accommodations:

We know hotels during the weekend of October 23rd are expensive due to F1; we have arranged a *free travel planning service to support your arrangements.

Please contact Marilyn McBride with Memorable Events Travel at (713) 298-2750 to find the best hotel option for you.

Our Signature Keynote Speaker: Mr. Gary Bledsoe

Welcome our Mistress of Ceremonies: Dr. Cierra Campbell Bridges

Dr. Cierra Campbell Bridges is Director of Enrollment Strategy and Partnerships in the Office of Admissions at The University of Texas at Austin and the founder of Bridges2Bridges, LLC, a coaching, speaking, and consulting platform focused on leadership and personal growth. A proud first-generation college graduate and three-time Longhorn alumna, she has devoted nearly two decades to advancing student success, access, and opportunity in higher education.

Cierra is a wife, mother of two, community leader, and member of Greater Mount Zion Church and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. As a Black woman whose educational journey was made possible by those who courageously challenged barriers before her, she is especially honored to serve as emcee for The Precursors Legacy Gala: Celebrating the First, Inspiring the Next. Returning for her third consecutive year, she is proud to help celebrate the students who integrated UT Austin seventy years ago and whose legacy continues to inspire future generations.