Feb. 3, 2016

Dear Alum,

We're excited to share with you that the most recent Carnegie Classification ranks UNT a top-tier research university. We're now one of 115 institutions nationwide in the highest Carnegie tier. As you know, UNT has committed to increasing our national prominence and this ranking is a significant step in that process.

Moving to the top tier of research universities is a significant achievement and an incredible tribute to all our faculty, staff and students who have worked so hard for so long to build our research and scholarly reputation. This achievement reflects our commitment to excellence in our education and research mission and the quality of our students and graduates. This ranking is a well-deserved testament to UNT's achievements.

UNT's official Carnegie Classification is Doctoral University: Highest Research Activity (R1), which matters for many reasons. Tier One universities attract top students and faculty, drive innovation and technology through high-level research and scholarship, and contribute significantly to the region and state through intellectual capital and economic development. Read our announcement about this new designation.

Today's recognition is an important step in our journey − but it's not the end. We moved up in the Carnegie Classification, which strengthens the value of our degrees and university partnerships, by staying true to our roots as an institution focused on creativity as expressed through our research, scholarship and educational activities. All along, we've paid attention to what matters most, providing our students with a great education and helping to build tomorrow's workforce and the next generation of globally relevant scholars.

Thank you for all you do every day to help make UNT successful and please take pride in this recognition as we celebrate our 125th anniversary.

UNT Proud,
Neal Smatresk, President