Student Activities Center Renaming

Students at The University of Texas typically have no problem finding a cause to support. But for many, changing the name of the Student Activity Center to the Margaret C. Berry Student Activity Center is much more than a cause. And for Texas Spirits in particular, having the SAC named after an Honorary Spook would mean giving recognition to one of the most active and well loved alumnae who has passed through our organization.

After receiving her bachelor’s degree in history in 1937, Margaret C. Berry remained active in The University of Texas by writing eight books about the school’s history, teaching and mentoring students and serving as associate dean of students. Berry retired in 1980, but still makes frequent visits to the university to be a guest lecturer or to appear at meetings.

“Education has been my life, and it has been good,” Berry, 96, said at an interview on Sept. 16 in the Alumni Center.

To honor Berry’s work as a professor, a historian and an alumna, students have started a movement called Students for the Margaret C. Berry Student Activity Center. Students involved in this cause hope to persuade The University of Texas System Board of Regents and UT President Bill Powers Jr. to approve the rename.

Of the 161 building on campus, 16 are named after someone still living and 8 are named after women. The Margaret C. Berry Student Activity Center would be the only building on campus named after someone who was both a Distinguished Alumna by Texas Exes and Austin’s Most Worthy Citizen.
When asked what Berry thought of the rename during her interview, she was at a loss for words.

“Some people think I’ve accomplished a lot. But that would be…” Berry said. “This is a great university, and don’t you forget it.”


By: Jules Bunch - Spring '11 Weenie