Brandon Jimenez

Representing UT Tyler Athletics: Track & Field

“Hey everyone! My name is Brandon Jimenez. I’m a junior at UT Tyler, running track and cross country while pursuing a degree in nursing. This is my first year at UT Tyler as I graduated from a Junior College down the road. I grew up on a ranch in East Texas in the small town of Quitman, Texas. My time here at Tyler has been short but I’ve enjoyed everything about this campus! On my free time, I like to cycle with my teammates for cross training and team rope with my dad back at home.  I’d love to have your vote for this year's homecoming, Go Pats!”

Sophie Waller

Representing Patriot Productions

“Hello!! My name is Sophie Waller, a proud Patriot and Communications major at UT Tyler! As the Vice President of Patriot Productions, I’ve spent the past three years helping bring exciting events and experiences to campus. My passion for leadership and student involvement has been recognized through awards like the 2023 Emerging Leader Award and 2024 Outstanding Sophomore of the Year.

Beyond my leadership in Patriot Productions, I am also a dedicated member of Patriot Pack, bringing school spirit and energy to our campus. In my first two years, I was actively involved in Delta Gamma, where I built lifelong friendships before transitioning to early alumnae status.

Outside of school, I have a love for line dancing, festivals, music, writing songs, and taking walks—all things that keep me inspired! My faith is a huge part of my life, and I strive to live with purpose and positivity and do so by attending my wonderful church home Grace Community and Boathouse! In addition to my involvement at UT Tyler, I am also an entrepreneur, running my own charcuterie business with dreams of expanding into my own company in the future.

Being part of the UT Tyler community has shaped me in incredible ways, and I’m honored to be considered for Miss UT Tyler. I hope to continue making a positive impact, uplifting others, and bringing people together. Thank you for your support—let’s keep making UT Tyler an amazing place to call home! Go Pats!!”

Tyler Paige

Representing Student Government Association

“My name is Tyler Paige, and I'm from Caddo Mills, Texas. I'm a Nursing major currently in Level 2 of the program. I currently serve as the Student Government Association Secretary, and previously was a Senator representing the School of Nursing. I'm also a member of Alpha Tau Omega. UT Tyler has presented a lot of opportunities that I never expected. Including the opportunity for me to represent UT Tyler at the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Student Policy Summit in Washington D.C.. I enjoy speaking with other students about available opportunities as well as working to solve problems and improve overall student life on campus. In my free time I enjoy video games, cooking, and camping.”

Allison Schwartz

Representing Student Government Association

“Hello Pats! My name is Allison Schwartz, I am a senior Communication Sciences and Disorders major with a minor in Psychology! I am the captain of the Women’s Tennis team at UTT. I also serve as the President of Student Government Association, National Student Speech Language Hearing Association (NSSLHA), and Student Athletic Advisory Committee (S.A.A.C)! UT Tyler has become my home over the past 3 years and I hope to come back and work in the community after receiving my doctorate in Audiology. Thank you for considering me for this honor!“

Jason Mullins

Representing Alpha Tau Omega

“Hey Patriots! My name is Jason Mullins and I’m a Junior! I am a psychology major and planning on getting my master's in counseling to eventually become a licensed therapist and help as many people as possible who are struggling with their mental health. I worked for the orientation and swoop camp team for two summers, and my last summer I was one of the three student transition coordinators who help plan and run both. I am currently the recruitment chairman for the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity, which I have also held other positions in my two semesters being in.”

Elizabeth Nixon

Representing Alpha Chi Omega

“Hey everyone, I’m Elizabeth Nixon, and I couldn’t be prouder to call UT Tyler my home! I’m a junior studying Biochemistry and a member of the UT Tyler Honors College, where I work hard to blend my love for science with academic excellence. One of the biggest parts of my college experience has been leadership, and Alpha Chi Omega has been a huge part of that. I’ve had the amazing opportunity to serve as President not once, but twice, which has helped me grow as a leader and form connections that I’ll carry with me for life. I’m also a member of the Greek honors societies Order of Omega and Rho Lambda, which have been incredible outlets for pushing myself and serving the community. But on a more personal note, as someone who grew up right here in Tyler, I can say there’s something truly special about being part of this campus community. UT Tyler feels like family to me—it’s where I’ve built lifelong friendships, grown as a person, and found a place where I belong. That’s why being part of Miss UT Tyler is so meaningful to me. It’s not just about showcasing what I’ve accomplished; it’s about representing the heart and spirit of a campus and city I love so much.“

Joshua Hermanns

Representing AMSA Pre-Med Chapter

“Hello, my name is Joshua Hermanns. I am a Kinesiology major, double minoring in Biology and Biochemistry with a plan to go to medical school to become a holistic medical doctor. I work as a simulated patient for UT Tyler School of Medicine. I am involved in several wonderful student organizations including the Academy of Future Health Professionals (AFHP), American Medical Student Association (AMSA), Pre-Health Student Association (PHSA), Wilderness Medicine Student interest group, and Chi Alpha. I have had the privilege and honor to serve as the parliamentarian and secretary for AMSA. I am actively involved in research on campus in the kinesiology department focusing primarily on motor control which involves movements of the body through EMG analysis, sit to stand, joint coordination, and joint stability. I am grateful to be a part of an impactful organization on campus called Kourage Health. Kourage Health is for individuals with chronic diseases in which we implement exercises and workout regimens to increase and improve the patients’ quality of life. I am passionate and committed to helping others and making a lasting impact in my community. UT Tyler holds a special place in my heart as I have met so many awesome professors that have truly shaped my academic journey. I am also grateful for the friends that I have met and the long-lasting relationships that I will cherish for a lifetime. I love everything about UT Tyler from the beautiful campus to the engaging activities and the supportive environment. Go Patriots!”

Millie Orajiaka

Representing African Students Organization

“My name is Millie, and I'm a sophomore international student from Nigeria, currently studying Biology. My ultimate goal is to attend medical school and pursue a career as a neurosurgeon. I am heavily involved in various campus activities, including the Student Government Association (SGA), Residence Housing Assistance (RHA), African Students Organization (ASO), American Medical Student Association (AMSA), African American Health Professionals (AFHP), American Chemical Society (ACS), Patriot Pack, Chi Alpha, and I also serve as an international student mentor. I am a member of the Honors College and hold the position of Patriot Ambassador. I love animals, and I am known for being a bubbly person!”

Sid Ireland

Representing The Knights & Reformed University Fellowship

“Hello! My name is Sid Ireland and I would like to first thank those who voted me into the Homecoming Court! I am very grateful. For a little background about who I am. I am a Senior graduating over the upcoming summer semester with a Bachelors in Industrial Technology and a Minor in Business Administration. After I graduate, I would like to pursue a career in broadcasting, media production, graphic design, or join the Secret Service. I don’t really know which I will do yet but Secret Service sounds the coolest. I am currently the president of The Knights fraternity and a member of our campus’ RUF (Reformed University Fellowship) chapter. For fun, I enjoy weightlifting, cooking, and target shooting. A fun fact about myself is that I collect antique cook books! The oldest book I own, content wise, is The Forme of Cury. It was compiled around the 1390’s by King Richard II’s Master Cooks. I enjoy cooking Italian food the most but I tend to cook a wide range of recipes. The oldest recipe I have cooked (that I can remember) is some Byzantine honey fritters from the Roman cookbook De re Coquinaria by Apicius. I am excited for this year’s Homecoming and I look forward to seeing y’all out there!”

Millie Jeske

Representing Reformed University Fellowship

“Hey y’all, my name is Millie Jeske! I’m a senior math major from Tyler. I’m a part of RUF, math club, and the honors college. I love traveling, hiking, hanging with friends, and anything outside. After college, I plan on starting my masters in math at UT Tyler. I have loved my time at UT Tyler and am excited to continue to be involved at the university. I’m honored to be chosen for the homecoming court!”