Dear Tarleton Family,
Welcome to spring 2023! I am more optimistic than ever that this will be our best semester yet. Tarleton just keeps getting better.
Already this semester we have received the largest cash contribution in university history, an unprecedented eight figures from alumnus Henry Hohenberger for the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources that will provide resources in high-need areas, professional development for faculty and students, and enhance best-in-class agricultural research. I extend my immense gratitude to Henry for this extraordinary gift.
Texas’ 88th Legislative Session began this week, and we anticipate an emphasis on the state’s STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) efforts, particularly to increase allied health opportunities — a perfect fit for Tarleton. If approved, our exceptional item request of $8.64 million will strengthen us as a leader in meeting rural health and wellness needs. Our strong biennium enrollment growth also positions us for increased base and formula funding.
True to our commitment to transformative education, five Tarleton Texans are in Austin this spring serving as legislative interns and helping tell our story. March 1 is Tarleton Day at the Capitol, and we will share it with our friends from Erath County and the Stephenville ISD. This will be a strategic opportunity for faculty, staff and students to advocate for our priorities.
Ten more Texans make up the all-star cast of our episode of The College Tour, streaming now on YouTube and scheduled to launch later this spring on Amazon Prime. Watch the full episode and share on your social media channels. The students do an amazing job relating their Tarleton experiences and championing our mission to inspire discovery, leadership and inclusion. The world needs to know.
We will host a Town and Gown Breakfast on Monday, Jan. 16, commemorating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birth. Set for 7 a.m. in the Dining Hall on the Stephenville campus, the event will feature performances by Tarleton’s Chamber Choir and speeches by Lamonte Jackson and Jashon Titus, winners of the last two years’ MLK speech competition.
A naming ceremony for the College of Engineering, honoring longtime benefactor and retired Lockheed Martin executive Dr. Dwain Mayfield, takes place April 13. This marks the first time we’ve named an academic college for an individual. The university is fortunate to have such an enthusiastic and dedicated friend.
Founder’s Week is April 17-22, featuring May Fete and the crowning of Lord and Lady Tarleton. Tailgating, a fantastic concert, and the spring Purple and White game complete the celebration.
Everyone in Stephenville will soon notice the dirt moving for our first multilevel parking garage at North Saint Felix and West Washington streets. The facility will create more spaces for students and employees and make it easier for visitors to attend campus events.
Spring enrollment flourishes as more students embrace the Tarleton experience.
From research funding and life-changing discoveries to more market-responsive majors, our reputation as one of America’s great public universities is on the rise.
I look forward to seeing you this semester at all of our campuses as we push the boundaries of what’s possible. Ever forward, ever onward.
As always, bleed purple, and welcome back!
Dr. James Hurley
President
Tarleton State University
Box T-0001
Stephenville, Texas 76402
Office: 254-968-9100
University Homepage: www.tarleton.edu