MOST INFLUENTIAL CHAPTERS

This year, the UTA SASE chapter proudly celebrates several major accomplishments. 

We achieved an impressive 64.24% growth in membership, expanding from 151 to 248 paid members. Notably, 83% of our 2024–2025 members are new, and our science major membership grew by 48.9%. Over the past academic year, we hosted 109 events—including 19 social events, 19 SASE-related events, 10 dance events, 4 cultural events, 11 professional development events, 12 service events, and 23 sports events.

Our proudest achievement is our Science Initiative, which introduced science-focused programming such as research panels, environmental and medical awareness events, a blood drive, a plant workshop, and an undergraduate research program featuring six projects across five different majors. We also successfully hosted Lone Star Throwdown for the second year in a row, a South Regional event that welcomed 156 SASE members from various chapters for a day of outdoor competitions and community-building.

Our success stems from key practices rooted in SASE’s three pillars: Professional, Cultural, and Community. When planning events, we always align with these values. We maintain a horizontal organizational structure to encourage collaboration, transparency, and leadership development at all levels. We set goals focused on member growth, ensuring that our events provide real value and foster engagement. 

Most importantly, we embrace innovation, welcome feedback, and build a strong SASEfam culture, one where every member feels seen, heard, and supported.

SASE Texas had a landmark year of impact, growth and innovation, becoming a hub for both professional development and cultural connection at the University of Texas at Austin. 

With more than 250 paid members and over 330 students attending the first general meeting, the chapter set new standards for member engagement and retention. Signature events such as the annual SASE Showcase and inaugural SASE Roots highlighted the creativity and technical talents of members across disciplines, while workshops with partners like Southwest Research Institute and Spectrum Enterprise provided direct access to career-building insights.

The chapter sent 22 members to the 2024 SASE National Conference—its largest cohort ever—where members received more than 15 interviews, five internship offers and two full-time job offers. SASE Texas also hosted the 2025 South Central Regional Conference, welcoming nearly 300 students and professionals to an unforgettable weekend of workshops, networking, and a uniquely casual outdoor career fair experience.

Beyond the classroom, SASE Texas members volunteered monthly at organizations like Central Texas Food Bank and Healing with Horses Ranch. Cultural initiatives included Lunar New Year and Loy Krathong celebrations, and participation in campus-wide events like Night Market and Golden Week. Despite challenges like SB17 and internal officer transitions, the chapter showed resilience, implemented stronger continuity systems and reaffirmed its mission to uplift Asian heritage students.

Tips for other chapters: Build programming around member feedback. Pair recurring anchor events with new, creative initiatives to balance tradition with excitement. Prioritize leadership development, clear transitions and data preservation. 

Most importantly, create a space where students feel they belong—professionally, culturally and socially.