STEPHENVILLE, Texas — Faculty and community leaders gathered at Tarleton State University on Thursday to explore opportunities for expanding educational access, strengthening rural communities and connecting students with resources through the Smithsonian Rural Initiative.
Hosted by the College of Education and School of Behavioral Sciences, the event brought together university faculty, Stephenville Mayor Lonn Reisman and Smithsonian representatives to discuss innovative approaches to teaching, learning and community engagement.
“The College of Education and School of Behavioral Sciences brought together faculty and community leaders from across disciplines to explore what becomes possible when the Smithsonian’s resources meet the strengths and needs of rural Texas,” said College of Education Dean Dr. Lesley Leach. “Serving rural communities is central to our work, and our relationship with the Smithsonian Rural Initiative opens new doors to do that. This is only the beginning, and we’re excited to keep building together.”
Established to expand the Smithsonian’s reach beyond its physical institutions, the Rural Initiative focuses on increasing access to educational resources, experiences and career pathways. Its priorities were informed by a 2024 report developed in collaboration with 4,200 rural community leaders.
“We call ourselves ‘the Nation’s Museum,’” said Smithsonian Rural Initiative Director Andy Mink. “The Smithsonian Rural Initiative was designed to reframe the Smithsonian as not just a destination but a public service.”
Throughout the gathering, Smithsonian representatives introduced resources and programs supporting STEM education, community engagement, digital learning and hands-on educational experiences. Faculty participated in discussions exploring how these tools could enhance classroom instruction and create new opportunities for students, particularly those in rural communities.
The event also highlighted professional development opportunities and the Smithsonian’s expanding 10-week Rural Internship Program, which provides paid career-readiness experiences for students.
“Expanding educational experiences and opportunities for students and educators in rural communities is something that is close to my heart,” said Dr. Gwinn North, assistant professor in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction. “It was especially exciting to discover shared interests among attendees and explore possibilities for collaboration. I look forward to seeing where today’s conversations might lead.”
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.