STEPHENVILLE, Texas — Tarleton State University welcomed nationally recognized thought leaders in business, health care, technology and higher education Feb. 26 for its Future Summit at the Omni Fort Worth, advancing the priorities of the Tarleton State Forward 2030 strategic plan.
The half-day event brought together campus leaders and community partners of Tarleton State to explore emerging trends shaping intercollegiate athletics, lifelong learning, rural health care and artificial intelligence.
“Higher education is evolving at an unprecedented pace,” said Tarleton State President Dr. James Hurley. “Through Tarleton State Forward 2030, we are strengthening industry partnerships, expanding access and investing in the people and places that will define the next generation of impact. The Future Summit challenged us to think boldly and act decisively as we shape what comes next.”
Welcome remarks were given by Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker, highlighting the university’s growing presence in North Texas and its commitment to workforce development and economic growth.
“Focused on what matters most, Tarleton State understands the importance of the intersection of education between K-12, higher education and workforce,” praised Mayor Parker. “The university continues to be the champion, year after year, in higher education for rural Texas, a state that boasts the eighth largest economy in the world.”
Dr. Credence Baker, Vice President for University Strategy and Chief of Staff and Chair of the Integrated Planning Council, opened the Future Summit by reinforcing the university’s focus on aligning strategy with action as Tarleton State continues its upward trajectory.
“Our strategic planning framework has been intentionally and strategically designed to be flexible, action-oriented and forward-thinking, allowing us to adapt to change while staying firmly rooted in our mission,” said Dr. Baker. “We are committed not only to setting ambitious goals, but in measuring progress and communicating impact. The conversations at the Future Summit ensure we move forward with purpose, remaining proactive as we navigate evolving workforce demands, advancements in health care, the transformation of intercollegiate athletics and technological innovation.”
Navigating The Changing Landscape of Intercollegiate Athletics
Oliver Luck, chairman of Altius Sports Partners and former NCAA executive, examined the rapidly changing landscape of intercollegiate athletics. His talk addressed student-athlete well-being, NIL (name, image and likeness) considerations, conference realignment and financial sustainability as Tarleton State continues to establish itself at the NCAA Division I level.
He emphasized balancing competitiveness and compliance while maintaining a strong institutional mission and supporting student-athletes.
“Fall back on those tried and true principles that helped build strong, resilient and weathered programs,” said Luck. “Make sure your students are not only integrated into the university academically, but make sure they’re incorporated into the community.”
Tarleton State’s Role in Powering Texas’ Workforce of Tomorrow
Lindsey Beagley, Director of Lifelong University Engagement at Arizona State University, addressed the demographic shifts reshaping higher education and the workforce. With projections showing that adults over 65 will soon outnumber those under 18 in the United States, she emphasized the need for universities to design learning environments that serve students across their lifespan.
Her remarks underscored how Tarleton State can leverage existing programs, facilities and partnerships to broaden access and position itself as a leader in multigenerational engagement.
“Think about unbundling what a university has traditionally offered,” encouraged Beagley. “Learners are at various stages of their life. A university is so much more than courses, it is a space for learners to encounter new ideas and expand their social network.”
How Tarleton State University Can Strengthen the Health of Our Rural Communities
Dr. Jonathan Nedrelow, Chief Medical Officer at Cook Children’s Health Care System, addressed the urgent need to build a sustainable health care workforce to serve Texas’ growing population and rural communities. He highlighted opportunities for Tarleton State to expand its impact through innovative academic programs, interdisciplinary training and community-based partnerships, including the university’s proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine.
His remarks stressed the critical role higher education plays in preparing health professionals to meet regional and statewide needs.
“We should be looking to university partners for research, data and insights, and for the next generation of clinical medicine to the bedside” urged Dr. Nedrelow.
How AI Can Transform Learning, Work and Innovation at Tarleton State
Dr. Vincent Kellen, Chief Information Officer for The Texas A&M University System, challenged attendees to consider how artificial intelligence can responsibly transform learning, research and operations. He highlighted the opportunities and ethical considerations of integrating AI across the university, from personalized learning to research innovation and operational efficiency.
He urged attendees to consider how Tarleton State can prepare graduates for an AI-driven world while remaining grounded in student success and academic excellence.
“AI is a great leveler in access, opportunity and a powerful source for social mobility,” emphasized Dr. Kellen. “Skills that will matter most while integrating AI across the university in real time is not losing sight of the fundamentals of academia, encouraging increased curiosity, critical thinking and metacognition.”
The summit included breakout sessions where participants could dive more deeply into the topic of their choice. It concluded with a panel discussion moderated by President Hurley, allowing attendees to engage directly with speakers and explore how insights from each discussion align with Tarleton State’s strategic priorities.
Reflecting on five years of progress under Tarleton State Forward 2030, university leaders affirmed their commitment to collaboration, innovation and excellence.
“Since opening our gates in 1899, Tarleton State has approached each new chapter with determination and vision,” said President Hurley. “The future is ours to build.”
For more information about Tarleton State Forward 2030, visit www.tarleton.edu/tarleton-state-forward-2030/.
A founding member of The Texas A&M System, Tarleton State University is breaking records — in enrollment, research, scholarship, athletics, philanthropy and engagement — while transforming the lives of more than 21,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Bryan and online. For over 125 years, Tarleton State has been committed to accessible higher education opportunities for all while helping students grow academically, socially and professionally through programs that emphasize real world learning and address regional, state and national needs.