MCB Scholarship

SPRING 2026

Join. Lead. Inspire.

Applications are closed.

About the Scholarship

In 1978, Orange Jackets, Mortar Board, and the Texas Exes created the Margaret C. Berry Scholarship to recognize one outstanding sophomore student at UT. The scholarship is named for Dr. Berry, a former member of the Texas Orange Jackets and the Mortar Board, who later served the university as a professor, advisor, and dean. She is regarded by many as UT’s unofficial historian and has contributed overwhelming amounts of time and energy to UT student life. The Margaret C. Berry scholarship is awarded to one sophomore student each year who has made a similarly significant impact on the university during their short time on campus. The Margaret C. Berry Scholarship also awards honorary membership into Texas Orange Jackets for the upcoming fall Tap Class as well as an academic scholarship from the Texas Exes.

The Legacy of Margaret C. Berry

Margaret C. Berry was a distinguished educator, historian, and advocate for student life at The University of Texas at Austin. Born in 1917, she earned her bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees from UT, studying history and education. As a student, she was a proud member of the Texas Orange Jackets, as well as a member of the Texas Mortar Board. Throughout her career as a professor and administrator, Berry played a pivotal role in advancing student services, promoting campus traditions, and documenting the university’s rich legacy. Her extensive research and publications, including books on UT history, cemented her reputation as the university’s unofficial historian. A passionate mentor and leader, she championed diversity, student leadership, and campus engagement. Berry’s lifelong contributions left an enduring impact on the UT community, earning her numerous accolades and the admiration of generations of students.

Foundational Tenets & Requirements

Service

A commitment to campus and community affairs with a desire to help others and contribute to The University of Texas at Austin.

Leadership

Demonstration of leadership skills and responsibility.

Scholarship

In order to be eligible to apply, the applicant must be sophomore-standing, having completed at least three semesters and at least 36 hours in residence at UT by this semester.

Community

As the foundational tenet, builds unwavering solidarity alongside all movements committed to change for the common good.

Spring 2026 Recruitment Schedule

To learn more about Texas Orange Jackets or meet current members, we invite you to attend our recruitment events this Spring! It is encouraged for you to attend as many events as possible, though recruitments events are optional and solely serve as opportunities to learn about the organization and get to know our members to see if Orange Jackets is a good fit for you. Our schedule of events is included below.