The Darren Walker Scholars program provides a fully funded undergraduate education at The University of Texas at Austin for students of the highest caliber with substantial financial need and a history of overcoming economic, social or educational obstacles. The program provides students with an intimate cohort of fellow Darren Walker Scholars as well as connections with faculty, alumni and civic leaders. The goal is to permit these extraordinary young women and men to unlock their potential and develop their talents for the betterment of all, following the example of Darren Walker.

This is funded by:
- Annual tuition scholarship provided by UT through the Texas Advance Commitment.
- Annual $20,000 scholarship award provided by Darren Walker Scholarship endowments.
UT’s Division of Diversity and Community Engagement (DDCE) leads the Darren Walker Scholars. This support includes tutoring, peer mentoring and coaching, service learning, internships and career networking. These efforts ensure that Darren Walker Scholars are best prepared to maximize their abilities and meet the challenges of advancing the betterment of their communities.
Important Dates
- October 1, 2022 – Nominations Open
- December 1, 2022 – Nominations Close
- December 21, 2022 – Semifinalists announced
- January 1, 2023 – February 15, 2023 – Semifinalist interviews & materials due
- March 1, 2023 – Darren Walker Scholars announced
Meet the Scholars (2022-2023)
Amy Donjuan
Hometown: Quanah, Texas
Major: Plan II Honors & Psychology
Jorge Giron
Hometown: Houston, Texas
Major: Psychology
Yanet Hernandez
Hometown: Pflugerville, Texas
Major: Medical Laboratory Science
Gabrielle Izu
Hometown: Houston, Texas
Major: International Relations and Global Studies
Christopher Zapata
Hometown: Tomball, Texas
Major: Business Honors