Aggies and Longhorns unite for higher education at OMLD 2023

Since 2003, The Association of Former Students and the Texas Exes have proudly planned and supported Orange and Maroon Legislative Day (OMLD), a biennial event combining the current and former students of both institutions to advocate for the shared goals of the state’s two flagship universities.

On Feb. 15, over 200 Aggies and Longhorns gathered at the Texas Capitol to demonstrate the impact the universities have on the state’s economy, research landscape and more, and why the two schools need the Texas Legislature’s continued support. 

For the first in-person OMLD since 2019, dedicated volunteers from across the state brought the event back to the Capitol in a decisive manner, visiting with all 181 members of the Texas Legislature or their staffs. The volunteers — which included 73 former and 34 current students of Texas A&M — discussed issues relating to college affordability, student mental health and research innovations.

Before embarking on these meetings, the volunteers attended a luncheon where they received an in-depth briefing on these issues, deemed as priorities by the universities, as well as guidance on effective advocacy strategies.

Porter S. Garner III '79, President and CEO of The Association of Former Students, joined with Texas A&M University System Chancellor John Sharp ’72 and Texas A&M University President M. Katherine Banks to discuss the legislative priorities and more with Speaker of the House Dade Phelan, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick and senior staff to Governor Greg Abbott.

“By speaking directly with lawmakers and other key decision-makers, Aggies and Longhorns help shape policy and legislation that directly impacts not just Texas A&M and UT Austin, but the entire state,” said Miranda Henderson ’09, Director of Advocacy and Legislative Affairs for The Association of Former Students. “No one can better demonstrate the life-changing value of a college education than a Texas Aggie; and on Orange and Maroon Legislative Day, we have a unique opportunity to help the university build and maintain strong partnerships with the legislature.”

The Aggies and Longhorns joined for a group photo outside the Capitol at the end of the day, followed by a reception. Here, the volunteers, university and alumni association leaders, legislative members and their staff continued these important conversations and network in an informal, relaxed setting.

“OMLD 2023 was a great success, thanks to the 200+ Aggies and Longhorns who put the rivalry aside for a day in pursuit of a common goal — advancing higher education and the state’s two flagship universities,” said Henderson.

OMLD has passed, but the 88^th Legislative Session is just getting into full swing — and you can still be a voice for Texas A&M! Visit aggienetwork.com/advocacy to learn more about the Texas A&M Advocacy Network and how to get involved.