AUSTIN, Texas  — Texas Longhorns athletic director Chris Del Conte and the program itself have been named the 2024 Austinite of the Year by the Austin Chamber.

What You Need To Know

  • Texas Longhorns athletic director Chris Del Conte and Texas Athletics have been named 2024 Austinite of the Year

  • The honor has been bestowed by the Austin Chamber since 1984

  • Del Conte was recognized for bringing national attention to Austin and positioning the city as a major sports hub

  • Del Conte will be formally honored during a meeting of the Austin Chamber in February 

It’s the highest annual honor the chamber offers, and Del Conte will be formally honored in February.

The Austin Chamber said Del Conte’s efforts with the athletic department have had a financial ripple effect, benefiting Austin restaurants, hotels and retail outlets on game days and during other major athletic events.

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Earning a record 15 Big 12 championships last year alone, Austin Chamber said Del Conte has brought national attention to Austin, fostering tourism and positioning the capital city as a sports and entertainment hub.

“The impact that Chris and UT Athletics have had on Central Texas has been immeasurable. Chris’ vision has helped guide UT Athletics through one of its most transformative periods in history. This is the Chamber’s most highly anticipated and prestigious award of the year, and I look forward to celebrating Chris and UT Athletics at our annual meeting in February,” said Austin Chamber President and CEO Jeremy Martin.

Among Del Conte’s accomplishments are a major renovation of the South End Zone of Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium, contributions to the construction of the Moody Center and a state-of-the-art practice and training facility for the men’s and women’s basketball and rowing programs. He also oversaw Texas' move to the Southeastern Conference. 

“I can’t thank the Chamber enough for recognizing the contributions that The University of Texas makes to our great community. I firmly believe Austin is the best city in the country, and we are so appreciative to be a part of this incredible place,” Del Conte said.

The Austin Chamber created the award in 1984. Past recipients include GSD&M chairman and co-founder Roy Spence, entrepreneur Susan Dawson, former Austin City Manager Jesús Garza and real estate developer Ray Wilkerson.