A Historic Year for TXST

The TXST Update

Dear Friends,

To say 2024 at Texas State University was historic is no exaggeration. As we conclude our 125th anniversary, this year stands as a remarkable chapter in TXST’s story — one marked by record enrollment, academic and research growth, global achievements, athletic victories, and milestones that continue shaping The Legacy of Tomorrow.

Looking back to 1899, when Governor Joseph Sayers signed the bill to establish the Southwest Texas State Normal School, it is incredible to see how far we have come. Those first students climbing Chautauqua Hill for classes in Old Main would not recognize today’s expansive campuses, but they would see something familiar: our unwavering mission to open doors and build a brighter future through higher education.

We have put together a video capturing some of 2024’s most exciting moments — I hope you will take a few minutes to watch!

With Gratitude

As the holiday season approaches, I want to share my deepest gratitude with our TXST community. To our more than 40,000 students who entrust us with their education, our dedicated faculty members advancing research and discovery, and our staff members whose hard work keeps our students and our campuses thriving — thank you. To our alumni and donors who champion our mission, your continued support makes all the difference.

Celebrating the Milestone

While our 125th anniversary celebration officially concludes this year, the festivities are not over just yet.

Fall Commencement Ceremonies (December 13-14): We are excited to honor our newest graduates alongside 300 Bobcats from the Class of 2020, who missed their in-person graduation due to COVID.
Hillviews Special Edition: A commemorative issue celebrating TXST 125 will arrive the week of December 20, highlighting our rich history and the people who shaped it. You can also see expanded stories, videos, and images in the online version.
125th Anniversary Ornament: Bring a piece of TXST history home this holiday season with our collectible ornament — on sale now!

My Top Ten Moments of November

From celebrating under the stars with Josh Abbott Band at CELEBRATE 125 to honoring Distinguished Alumni and hosting the 29th annual Tomás Rivera Children’s Book Award luncheon, last month was the perfect way to ease into the end of the Fall semester.

Here are a few of my top moments from November.

Bobcats on the Rise

Conference Champions: Congratulations to our Sun Belt Conference Tournament Champion volleyball team! They played in the first round of the 2024 NCAA Tournament on November 5 where their season came to an end with an impressive 22-9 record. I am so proud of all they accomplished this year and can’t wait to see most all of this team back next year!
Bowl-Bound Bobcats: After a stunning 58-3 victory over Southern Miss during Homecoming Week, we are bowl eligible for the second year in a row. Bowl selections will be announced December 8, so stay tuned and make plans to attend!

In Case You Missed It

Listen to a new episode of my podcast The Current featuring Mark Updegrove, President CEO of the LBJ Foundation, and Abby Garcia, a TXST student featured on the Netflix documentary Going Varsity in Mariachi.
X-Bow Systems and TXST announce cooperative research agreement for solid rocket motor advancement.
Agricultural Sciences adds VR welding units, reequips construction lab with NIFA grants.
TXST initiative supports veterans through interactive journals.
TXST doctoral student awarded prestigious fellowship for conservation research.

As we turn the page to 2025, I am excited for the next chapter in our journey together. Beth and I wish you joy, peace, and all the best this holiday season and beyond.

Thank you for being part of this extraordinary year at TXST. States Up!

Sincerely,

Kelly Damphousse
President

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