During my first year as Tarleton’s president, I have learned that Tarleton is unique in its history, character and opportunities. Spirit, pride and tradition are woven into our fabric. We are grounded in our roots as a rural private college, and we are growing in stature as a comprehensive university with six colleges, 90 majors and almost 8,000 students. Tarleton is a perfect blend of the best of public and private institutions.

President Dottavio with Purple Poo at Commencement, May 2009.

At Tarleton, tradition is not just something we read about in history books.  Our students live it every day passing by the native stone rock walls constructed around the original 40 acre campus in the 1930’s and enjoying the hundred-year-old post oak trees included in the design of the official class ring.  While we are firmly plugged into the latest technology, we still value the legacy of our founder, John Tarleton, who believed that students who were willing to work hard could make a better life for themselves.

Although we are proud to be a highly regarded regional research university, Tarleton pride is not just about being the biggest this or the best that.  We take most pride in being a warm, friendly, and caring community.  You see this deep respect for the Tarleton family in everything from the sea of purple t-shirts to purple holiday trees to the traditional purple pancakes served during Homecoming Week.

Walking around campus, you feel the Tarleton spirit:  energy, enthusiasm, and excitement. Our over 100 student organizations testify to students’ commitment and engagement.  However, it is the way that our traditions and pride capture your heart that makes Tarleton such a special place.

Although we have become one of the major public universities in Texas, we have not lost sight of what is most important – our students.  Throughout its history, Tarleton has been known for being a close-knit family that does whatever is necessary to help students succeed.  Our faculty and staff have a great tradition of being exceptional educators, pride themselves on being focused on students’ success, and instill our graduates with a spirit that will distinguish them in their communities and careers in the years to come.

F. Dominic Dottavio
President
president@tarleton.edu