Painting a Bright Future

Lisa (Fasano) Cartwright, BFA '88, fell in love with art in sixth grade when an inspiring teacher opened the door to the world of art history. As an art history major at The University of Texas at Austin, Lisa discovered that art isn't just about studying individual pieces. It can inspire creativity and critical thinking and bring communities together.

"I explored other classes and colleges at UT, but I always gravitated back to fine arts," said Lisa, the daughter of first-generation college graduates. As a student government representative for the College of Fine Arts, Lisa supported the college she loved and set up a co-op to help students purchase more affordable art supplies that still exists today.

"The degree from UT changed my life. I never would have gone to New York, gotten my MBA from Columbia or have the life that I have now without UT. I decided to include UT in my estate plans because I want other students to have the same opportunities that I did," Lisa shared.

Opportunity at UT

Lisa established two scholarships to support students with financial need. She created one of her scholarships as part of the Texas Challenge — an opportunity for donors to double their impact by having their new endowed scholarship matched.

"Students come from all different backgrounds, and not all of them have the financial support to experience all of the opportunities UT has to offer. I want to make sure the scholarships can be used not only for tuition or room and board, but also for internships and experiences outside of Texas," Lisa said.

The scholarships that Lisa established will help future students find their own inspiring and creative ways to change the world.

Your Opportunity

Did your UT experience inspire you? Help shape the next generation’s memories on the Forty Acres by contacting our experienced Gift and Estate Planning at 512-475-9632 or email GEPteam@austin.utexas.edu.