Leaders from higher education and industry gathered for the 2026 State of Higher Education Forum, hosted by The Business Press at The Fort Worth Club. Tarleton State University President Dr. James Hurley joined the panel discussion, which centered on “The Impact of Partnerships” and the role collaboration plays in strengthening students, communities and the workforce.
Panelists drew on relevant data and grounded examples of collaboration between institutions, local organizations and business leaders and the role these partnerships play in work-based learning and development. The conversation underscored the importance of such mutually beneficial relationships in driving success community wide.
“Nearly half of our students are first-generation, and about 41% of our students are Pell Grant recipients. We have to ensure we align with every single community partner in removing barriers,” said Dr. Hurley. “Whether you are offering an internship for one student or hundreds of students, every single opportunity for a young person matters. It may be the one opportunity they need to break the educational and social cycles of poverty.”
Throughout the panel discussion, Dr. Hurley reiterated the life-changing mentorship and models of leadership community partners provide students. Through partners like the Texas Future Farmers of America Association (FFA), Opal Lee’s Unity Unlimited and Communities in Schools of Greater Tarrant County, Tarleton State has fostered opportunities for community-engaged learning, internships and direct interaction with thriving businesses and nonprofits.
Tarleton State was awarded the Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement in 2020 and remains the only institution in The Texas A&M System with the distinction.
Tarleton State’s growing presence in the Fort Worth area also positions it well for strategic partnerships. Businesses have taken notice of North Texas talent, as leaders turn to the developing region for economic opportunities.
“Fort Worth and Tarrant County are experiencing extraordinary growth, and Tarleton State is committed to being a strong university partner,” said Dr. Rachael Capua, Vice President of External Operations and Dean of Tarleton State Fort Worth. “Our Chisholm Trail Campus and our presence at Texas A&M-Fort Worth give us expanded opportunities to connect with ISDs, industry and workforce leaders, strengthening the pathways that connect students to higher education, careers and the needs of a rapidly evolving region”
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 28,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Bryan and online. For 127 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.