The University of North Texas (UNT) will offer the Braven Career Accelerator course starting in Spring 2026 as part of a partnership with the nonprofit Braven. This initiative is the first of its kind in Texas and aims to equip students with essential career-ready skills.
The first phase of the program will focus on transfer students and aims to reach 4,000 students within the first five years. UNT President Harrison Keller stated, “More than 40 percent of our students are the first in their families to attend college, and they bring amazing talent, resilience and grit.” He emphasized that the collaboration aligns with UNT’s commitment to student career preparation.
Braven has a national track record of helping students from low-income backgrounds secure strong first jobs. Data shows that 92% of Braven Fellows graduate on time, and 70% complete internships during college. Braven’s Founder and CEO Aimée Eubanks Davis expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, noting UNT’s suitability as a forward-thinking university.
The Braven Career Accelerator will include a three-credit course combining online modules and in-person labs. These labs will be facilitated by professional volunteers who serve as leadership coaches. Students completing the course will be designated Braven Fellows and will continue to receive career support through coaching, job opportunities, and alumni events.
Lisa McIntyre, UNT’s vice provost for Student Success, highlighted the initiative’s potential to offer students transformative experiences and emphasized the power of collaborations in changing student outcomes. Additionally, the program provides UNT’s alumni and extensive network opportunities to engage with current students, further enhancing career pathways within the community.
- Course Launch: Spring 2026
- Target Population: 4,000 students within five years
The partnership reflects UNT’s dedication to improving student life through strategic collaborations, aiming to provide a solid foundation for future North Texas leaders.