Top Ten Moments: August 2023

Freshmen Jumpstart Their College Journey

An aerial shot of hundreds of students at the Jump Start event.
It was thrilling to gather with thousands of freshmen at Jumpstart, the inaugural event that marks the start of their time at TXST, which culminates in their final jump into the river at graduation. Our record-breaking freshman class really brought the energy!

Welcoming the Class of 2027 at Fandemonium

TXST Class of 2027 students in Bobcat Stadium with fireworks in the background
We followed up the excitement of Jumpstart with Fandemonium at Bobcat Stadium, complete with fireworks and a new look for Boko. We’re all excited to see what our newest Bobcats accomplish.

Open Houses Connect Students to Faculty

President Damphousse takes a selfie with a group of Bobcat community members and students.
At the College Open Houses, our faculty connected with students and shared some of the learning opportunities available in our 200+ degree programs. I joined most of our college’s open houses and gave lots of golf cart rides.

Residence Hall Move-in Day

A TXST student ambassador shows the "Eat 'Em Up" and "Heart of Texas" handsigns during Move-In Day.
Beth and I had a blast welcoming new students and families during move-in days at our residence halls. Our new students showed so much spirit and our staff worked hard to help them get settled in. Welcome home, Bobcats!

LBJ Kick-Off

Staff gather together for the LBJ Kick-Off event held at Bobcat Stadium.
We held a huge party at Bobcat Stadium for faculty, staff, and their families. Over 1,700 people joined the LBJ Kick-Off. Earlier that day, we held the inaugural State of TXST event, where we celebrated the achievements of last year and what’s ahead.

Welcoming New TXST Faculty

President Damphousse with 2 NSO students
Our academic rigor and thriving research enterprise is attracting the best-of-the-best faculty members from across the U.S. Thanks to our Academic Affairs team for hosting a special event for our newest faculty members.

Education and Workforce Summit

President Damphousse stands a podium, speaking at the Education and Workforce Summit.
Thanks to the San Marcos Chamber of Commerce and the Greater San Marcos Partnership for inviting me to share the State of Texas State at their Education and Workforce Summit. Our regional partners were enthusiastic about updates on the Run to R1 and strengthening industry collaboration.

Inaugural President’s Leadership Class

Dr. Damphousse and Beth Damphousse take a photo with TXST students chosen for the President's Leadership Class cohort.
Beth and I hosted the first-ever meeting of the TXST President’s Leadership Class. We launched the program to develop and nurture extraordinary leaders in our student body. Thanks to Bobcat alum Bill Poston for believing in this program.

Biotech Leaders Converge at STAR Park

A group of TXST community members gathered together for the STAR Park biotech mixer.
We hosted Austin and San Antonio biotech companies at STAR Park, TXST’s anchor on the Texas Innovation Corridor. STAR Park houses a technology incubator for companies working in biotech, chemistry, and materials science industries. We announced big plans to double its size.

Celebrating Summer Graduates

Dr. Kelly Damphousse & Beth Damphousse take a photo with three TXST graduates.
One of my favorite moments at our summer graduation ceremonies was capturing a photo with the final student to cross the stage during commencement. Beth and I congratulated grads and their families celebrating by the river, and met alumni from around the world (including Nigeria and Iran).

BONUS – Back the Bobcats Coming Soon

My wife Beth and I are passionate about building relationships with our hometown San Marcos and spreading school spirit in the community. Beth is leading the Back the Bobcats decorating contest with the San Marcos Chamber of Commerce to spread Bobcat pride leading up to our first home football game on Sept. 16. See you there!