Michael Morales brings many talents to his work at Texas Law.
In addition to counseling prospective students, reviewing admissions files, and maintaining the day-to-day operations of the admissions office, where he is associate director, Morales coordinated last spring’s admitted students’ days, which is the largest admissions event of the year: He organized dozens of sessions during the two-day event, which was attended by more than 200 soon-to-be Texas Law students and around 80 guests, showcasing what’s best about the school.
Did we mention he’s an events DJ, skilled athlete, and recently became a father?
For all his outstanding contributions, Morales won Texas Law’s 2024 Employee of the Year award, after earning the most nominations. Yet he remains humble. “I was genuinely surprised. I knew I was in the running with so many other deserving individuals, and it truly caught me off guard,” Morales says. “It’s an incredible honor, and I appreciate the recognition.”
As the winner, Morales received a $1,500 bonus, a handsome award, and the rousing appreciation of his colleagues at the law school’s annual back-to-school faculty and staff celebration on Sept. 4.
And he appreciates them right back. “Winning this award means a lot to me, but more importantly, it highlights the incredible team I have around me,” Morales says. “Their support and collaboration have been instrumental in achieving the success we’ve had this year. This award reflects our collective efforts, and I’m grateful to be part of such a dedicated group.”
Morales was previously the Employee of the Month for April 2024.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in applied movement science from The University of Texas at Austin and a master’s in sports management from Sam Houston State University. Morales then held several temporary positions at UT and spent the summer of 2015 selling merchandise on tour for the rock band Spoon before joining Texas Law in December 2015 as a temporary employee. Three months later, he was hired full time as an administrative assistant.
Several years later, he was promoted to admissions manager and eventually to his current role. In addition to his work in admissions, Morales also takes on DJ gigs (as “Pops Morales,” a lifelong nickname also used by some coworkers at Texas Law) providing music for law school events—including alumni reunion and the Society Games—and other units across UT. (His brother Tim Morales also works at Texas Law as senior events specialist for the Career Services Office.)
Colleagues say Morales is exceedingly worthy of his award.
“What makes Michael such an outstanding Texas Law employee is his willingness to take on additional responsibilities without seeking recognition or praise. Whether it’s lending a helping hand to colleagues or stepping up to lead new initiatives, he does so with a quiet determination, embodying what it means to be a true team player,” says Mathiew Le, assistant dean of admissions and financial aid. “Michael has a growth mindset, knowing that anything he takes on is an opportunity to expand his skillset.”
Law school applicants benefit from having Morales on board. “It is fitting that when a prospective student is interested in Texas Law, Michael is one of the first people they meet. His kindness, insight, and supportive nature make students feel welcomed and confident,” says Kelly Findley, program coordinator with the admissions office.
Morales makes the school a better place for his co-workers, too. “One of the reasons I enjoy working at Texas Law is the fact I get to work with Michael Morales,” says Dave Farnum, director of student recruitment. “His work ethic, positivity, humor, and love of all things UT make coming to work a delight. He’s the consummate team player at the office as much as he is playing team sports, which he does as a natural athlete.”
“Michael represents the very best of what it means to be a dedicated and exemplary employee,” Le says. “His contributions have had a lasting impact on our team and is demonstrative of the excellence we have here at Texas Law.”