Social Media
Amplifying the UT Story
Social media is one of the most powerful ways we connect with Longhorns everywhere, from current students and faculty members to alumni and future Longhorns around the world. Each post offers an opportunity to engage our audiences, spark conversation and share the remarkable stories unfolding on the Forty Acres and beyond.
Through these platforms, we highlight what makes The University of Texas at Austin a special place to learn, work and grow.
University Social Media Guidelines
The proper and effective use of social media presents opportunities to share the UT story in an authentic, transparent and timely manner to cultivate richer, more substantive relationships with key audiences. At the same time, the management of social media accounts requires a sustained level of support to present the life and work of the University on these platforms to the right audiences.
The UT Social Media Guidelines outline the standards and requirements for managing official social media brand accounts operated in the name of colleges, schools, departments and administrative and other units at the University. These guidelines govern all official UT-affiliated social media accounts and apply to anyone who manages or contributes to them; they do not cover student organization accounts.
These guidelines are intended to promote responsible use, ensure brand consistency, support accessibility and maintain compliance with University, state and federal regulations. They aim to ensure that all social media activity aligns with University strategic priorities and values, complies with applicable laws and protects the University’s reputation.
Core Principles
As communicators, we strive to tell powerful stories through rich content across social platforms. When creating content for your college, school or unit, it’s essential to keep these guiding principles in mind:
- Accuracy: Be clear, honest and factual. Don’t mislead or omit key details. Disclose any potential conflicts of interest.
- Confidentiality: Never share private, protected or personally identifiable information (PII). Follow FERPA, HIPAA and University privacy standards. When in doubt, check with your supervisor.
- Pride: Reflect UT’s bold spirit and shared values. Your content should show the excellence, energy and unity of the Forty Acres.
- Respect: Handle negative feedback with professionalism. Avoid slurs, profanity, personal attacks or any conduct that wouldn’t be acceptable in a UT workspace or classroom. When in doubt, check with the UMAC social media team at utsocial@utexas.edu.
- Attribution: Always credit creators. Only share content you have rights to use, and follow copyright and fair use law.
- Consistency: Stick to UT’s brand voice and style. Use plain language, active voice and a confident, inclusive tone.
Hashtags to Know
- #WhatStartsHere – Highlight global impact and innovation
- #UTTower – Celebrate Tower moments on campus
- #HookEm – Show your Longhorn spirit