Welcome Message to Parents and Bobcat Families

Dear Parents and Bobcat Families:

On my first day as president of Texas State University, I wanted to reach out to you directly to express my gratitude, assurance, and commitment to ensuring the success of your student. I really feel like I should say “our” student, because our university takes seriously the trust that you have placed in us when you sent your student to us. We are passionate about student success, and we share your dreams for them. Our number one job here at Texas State is to ensure that “our” students have what they need to be successful – especially when things seem the most challenging (as they often do during the course of the semester). 

It feels like yesterday when our oldest daughter Kayleigh left home for college. To be honest, I was terrified – even though she was attending the university where I worked. My wife, Beth, and I were excited for the adventure she was beginning, but we were also super anxious for the challenges and unknowns that lay ahead. We wanted her to stay safe, to learn and grow, to make friends, and most importantly, to prepare for her future. I think that my anxiety was rooted in my own experience as a first-generation college student. College can certainly feel overwhelming at times.

By the time our second daughter Kristen followed her sister to the same school, we were a little better (but not much). And, Beth did manage to enjoy turning one of their bedrooms into a craft room. Ha. Still, no matter how far along they got in their studies or how often they expressed their growing independence, we still worried about them a lot. So, if you feel the same way, I get it.

The good news is that our kids (like your Bobcat) were attending a school that nurtured them and allowed them to blossom. To be sure, they each had their unique struggles, but earning their bachelor’s degrees set them on a path to a changed life. And, when you boil it right down, that is the heart of what we are doing here at Texas State – we are changing the lives of the young people who come to us – no matter their background. 

I am incredibly proud of my girls, just as I’m sure you are of your student. I consider it an incredible honor and privilege to lead the university your student has chosen for their education. I take that responsibility seriously, and I stand committed to engaging with you as we guide them through their college years. And, I won’t be doing that alone. One of the things that really appealed to me about Texas State was the obvious dedication shown by our faculty and staff members to the success of their students. They are accomplished professionals who could serve at any university in the world, but they have chosen to serve here because they believe in our life-changing mission. I am proud to call them my colleagues, and you can rest assured that we will do all that we can to support your students as they race toward the finish line. 

Texas State is dedicated to providing our students with the resources they need to stay safe, to remain healthy, and to keep on the right path to earn their degree and to begin a fulfilling career. Together, we are inspiring them to become the leaders, change-makers, and innovators they are destined to be. Thank you for your partnership in that journey.

Sincerely,
 
Kelly Damphousse, Ph.D. 
President