Club Spotlight: Austin Ragin' Cajun Club

They say everything is bigger in Texas, and if you find yourself in Austin, you're sure to find a large number of Ragin' Cajuns. If you're looking for a way to get involved with the UL Lafayette Alumni Association in the Austin region, consider joining the Austin Ragin' Cajun Club.

Donna Misthos has served as the Austin Ragin' Cajun Club president for the past five years since she moved to the area. As a proud 1985 graduate of the University, Misthos wants to showcase everything Austin offers to UL Lafayette alumni and fans. Even though it's been hard to gain momentum for the club, she's optimistic for its future.

Misthos' optimism will soon become a reality. On September 4, the Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns are traveling to Austin to face the Texas Longhorns. "During the football weekend, I hope to recruit officers for the Austin Ragin' Cajun Club and get new event ideas to make Austin an active club," said Misthos. The Alumni Association is also planning events throughout the weekend for all alumni and fans to attend. The Association will post updates on the Alumni Association website and social media accounts soon!

Before the big game, Misthos mentioned plenty of things fans can do around town. "The weather will be hot, so folks might want to go swimming at Barton Springs or kayak on Lady Bird Lake," said Misthos. "There are many great restaurants in town, so try a few and make sure you get some BBQ because the hype is real, and the brisket here is the best."

Like Lafayette, Austin offers a friendly atmosphere. This central point has made living in the Lone Star state appealing to UL Lafayette alumni over the last couple of years. But there is also so much more. "First of all, Austin is the live music capital of the world, so there is a variety of music and something for everyone," said Misthos.

"Austin is a boom town currently, so there are many employment opportunities, especially in the tech sector." Also, Misthos said the Texas Hill Country offers lots of outdoor activities like hiking and indoor activities like wine tasting and shopping. The lakes and natural springs give people in Austin the opportunity to do lots of water sports. "Austin is also within driving distance of Lafayette, so it is not too far from home," said Misthos.

If you find yourself in the heart of Texas but want to stay connected to your alma mater, there are plenty of ways to do so. The best way is to update your information with the Alumni Association to receive communication when there are events in Austin and the surrounding areas. The September 4 game against the Texas Longhorns is just the start of the Austin Ragin' Cajun Club and its exciting future. "The future for the Austin Ragin' Cajun Club is to create a board and to plan a few annual events. All to help alumni stay connected to the University and each other," said Misthos.

For more information on future Austin Ragin' Cajun Club events, make sure to visit their Facebook page or contact Donna Misthos directly.

Photo: Tailgating with alumni and a future Ragin' Cajun Photo Credit: Courtney Bergeron/UL Lafayette