Dear Tarleton State Family,
As we prepare for our summer commencement, this weekend’s celebration will serve as the proud conclusion of our 125th anniversary celebration. Kindall and I wish to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the 125 Years of Excellence committee and to each of you who have made this milestone year so meaningful. Since our founding in 1899, Tarleton State University has proudly transformed lives through access, opportunity and affordability. This year, we’ve honored that legacy with impactful events and historic moments that brought our community together and reminded us of everything this incredible institution has accomplished –– and the boundless potential that lies ahead.
This year once again brought record-breaking growth through our largest student body in history, including a fall freshman class that exceeded 3,000. Academically, we are advancing bold initiatives that will shape Tarleton State’s next chapter through new degree programs, research investments and the legislative support for our proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine (applicant status –– seeking accreditation). Our research expenditures reached an all-time high, and our focus on innovation and workforce readiness continues to evolve in our mission of serving the state of Texas. And we are doing all this while continuing to invest in our physical campuses with new and updated facilities, including the Interprofessional Education (IPE) Building in Fort Worth, the Health Professions Building, Regents Hall, the expansion of the Dick Smith Library and the state-of-the-art EECU Center.
As we look ahead, we remain committed to expanding opportunity and access. Our “Always, Texan” comprehensive fundraising campaign is underway, with a goal of raising $350 million to support student success, faculty excellence, healthcare and STEM education, athletic competitiveness and campus development. This year reminded us not only of how far we’ve come, but also of the power of a united Texan community to shape what’s next. I am confident that John Tarleton (and Oscar P) would be proud of the legacy that lives today and is on the horizon for the future.
Here at Tarleton State, we transform lives every day. Through education, experiences and support, we impact the future of education, the workforce and our students. Our purpose has never been clearer. Through the power of higher education, we will transform students’ lives –– together!
Thank you for being part of this extraordinary year in Tarleton State’s story. As we turn the page on 125 Years of Excellence, we do so with renewed purpose, deep pride and bold aspirations for the years to come.
Godspeed, and may you forever Bleed Purple!
Dr. James Hurley
President