Top Ten Moments: September 2022
1. State of Workforce & Education Summit
On Sept. 14, I shared how TXST is shaping the Texas workforce through our driven graduates and industry partnerships in my address at the State of Workforce & Education Summit. The annual event was hosted by our partners in the Greater San Marcos Partnership (GSMP) and San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce. Our region is growing rapidly, spurred in part by our in-demand research park and two TXST campuses along the Innovation Corridor in Round Rock and San Marcos.
2. Testifying at the Texas Capitol
I testified before the House Appropriations Committee on Sept. 9 and the Legislative Budget Board on Sept. 22 about our Run to R1, and centers of excellence at TXST that align with our state’s goals. As a public university, it’s critical that our state leaders and lawmakers are informed about the latest developments at TXST. It’s our duty to illustrate how we’ve used their support to make an impact for our state and for generations of Texans.
3. Launched Commissions and Task Forces
Working closely with my Cabinet and senior leadership, we charged four commissions and task forces to address some of the university’s biggest opportunities and challenges ahead. The members, objectives, and expectations of these groups can be found on the Office of the President website. These commissions and task forces are designed to accelerate our Run to R1, reach ambitious student success goals, increase enrollment, and enhance efficiency.
4. Hometown Connections
At a city-wide reception held on Sept. 15, hosted by the Mayor of San Marcos, Jane Hughson (pictured), Beth and I enjoyed meeting many of our neighbors and visiting with community leaders. The vibrant community of San Marcos has contributed greatly to the university’s success over the years. I look forward to strengthening our ties and looking for new ways to partner with our hometown.
5. Honouring Hispanic Heritage Month
We lit up the night on Sept. 15 at Noche de Cine (movie night) by projecting the movie Selena on the side of Alkek Library. It was one of many special events held to honour Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15 - Oct. 15) and our status as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). I was blown away by performances from the talented musicians and dancers in TXST’s award-winning mariachi band and folklórico group.
6. San Francisco Bobcats Unite
Of the many alumni events across the U.S. that Beth and I have traveled to, the reception with our San Francisco Bobcats on Sept. 1 was one of our favorites. We had a great time with alumni in Palo Alto, Reno, Washington, D.C., as well as closer to home in Austin, San Antonio, Houston, and Waco. Our global network of 221,000+ alumni are leading the way in their industries and communities. Once a Bobcat, always a Bobcat!
7. President Lyndon B. Johnson’s Legacy
As part of an annual tradition started by “Lady Bird” Johnson, a private wreath-laying ceremony was held at President Lyndon B. Johnson’s gravesite in observance of his birthday. Beth and I were incredibly grateful for the opportunity to join the Johnson family at the LBJ Ranch to reflect on the enduring legacy of the 36th President of the United States and our most Distinguished Alumnus.
8. Birds Eye View
I’ve long known that San Marcos is the most beautiful college town in Texas, but on Sept. 15 I got to see it from a whole new perspective when GSMP President Jason Giulietti took Beth and I on a helicopter ride over the city. We got a bird’s eye view of our position in the epicenter of the Texas Innovation Corridor, and updates on some of the industries and businesses rushing to locate here to harness our research capabilities and graduates.
9. Artistic Talents on Display in Mitte
On Sept. 16, with time to spare between meetings, I found myself wandering through the Joann Cole Mitte building where I discovered remarkable art galleries showcasing the talent of students from our School of Art and Design. The art education majors who were busy working on their projects were gracious enough to show me around.
10. Trivia Night with a TXST Honor Society
When Sophie Winterle, the president of TXST’s Communication Honors Society Lambda Pi Eta, invited me to their trivial pursuit contest at Pluckers on Sept. 14, I couldn’t resist a friendly competition over hot wings. I’ve had a great time connecting with dozens of our student organizations recently – the Black Student Alliance, Collegiate FFA, Greek Life, marching band, international students, and many more. With 300+ student organizations total, I look forward to meeting them all.
BONUS: The Motorcycle Moment
Riding that motorcycle onto the field at our first home football game of the season was an experience I’ll never forget! Thanks to our creative (and persuasive) Athletics staff for the opportunity… and for the cool jacket. The crowd was electric that night and our school spirit was on full display as we clinched our first win of the season. I hope you join me at the rest of our upcoming home games.
