From the President's Desk

President Kelly Damphousse reflects on TXST 125 and introduces the commemorative issue of Hillviews.

kelly damphousse headshot

Dear Bobcat Family,

As we come to the end of TXST’s 125th anniversary celebration, it is incredible to think back to Founders Day in 1899 when Governor Joseph Sayers signed a bill to establish a teachers college in San Marcos. From that one visionary act, a whole world of possibilities was born.

Fast forward to today, and we are a vibrant community of over 40,000 students learning, growing, and making memories across two campuses, with 4,300 dedicated faculty and staff guiding them along the way. And then, of course, there is the powerful network of over 237,000 alumni who carry their Bobcat pride into every corner of the world.

In this special anniversary edition of Hillviews, we are excited to celebrate the inspiring journey that has brought us here. You will find stories about our history and the people who have made TXST what it is today—like LBJ’s days as a student, Boko’s evolution over the years, and how we have grown into a research powerhouse with an impact that stretches far beyond our campus borders.

Our anniversary theme, The Legacy of Tomorrow, speaks to a promise we have held from the very beginning—empowering and preparing our students to create a better future for themselves and for the world. That has been our purpose since day one, and it still drives us as we look forward to what the next 125 years will bring.

Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey. Together, we are building a legacy that will continue to inspire generations, lift our state and communities, and illuminate the path forward for years to come.

With pride and gratitude, 

Kelly Damphousse
President