Dear Colleagues,

As we close out another extraordinary year at Texas State University, I want to take a moment to reflect on the remarkable progress we have made and to share some exciting news about what is ahead.

Our continued growth is a direct result of your hard work, commitment, and belief in what Texas State can become. Thanks to the work of the Texas State University System (TSUS) and the strong support of the Texas Legislature, we are in a position few universities in the nation can claim: financially strong, growing in enrollment, and ready (and able) to make bold investments in our people, programs, and future.

The proposed FY2026 budget we will bring to the TSUS Board of Regents in August is a reflection of that momentum. I would like to share how these investments align with our Hopes & Aspirations High vision and the strategic goals we are working toward together.

Elevate Student Success
We are investing significantly in our students, both in the classroom and beyond. We are also increasing our baseline operating budgets across divisions for the first time since the pandemic, helping us meet the growing needs of our students and support services.

Run to R1
As part of our Run to R1, we are making transformational investments in research. With the support of the Texas University Fund, we are significantly expanding our research portfolio. In addition, we are permanently funding over 400 faculty lines that have historically relied on temporary funds, stabilizing a key part of our instructional and research infrastructure.

Increase Enrollment
As enrollment continues to climb, we are taking steps to ensure our physical infrastructure and student support keep pace with demand. One major project, the new Hilltop 2 residential complex, will provide 1,500 additional beds and a full-service dining hall to support our expanding student population and enhance the residential experience. We are also making a significant increase in financial aid to ensure access remains strong as our university grows.

Grow Our Round Rock Campus
For the first time in our university’s history, the Round Rock Campus will have its own dedicated operating budget. This commitment reflects our belief in the power and potential of that campus to serve students, grow programs, and deepen our regional impact. It builds on ongoing expansion already underway at the Round Rock Campus, including Esperanza Hall, which is on schedule for completion in January 2026, and the Round Rock Life Sciences building, which is currently in schematic design with a goal of breaking ground in early 2026.

Become an Employer of Choice
I know how hard you work—and that you deserve to be compensated fairly and competitively. This year’s budget proposes significant salary and benefits increases to ensure all employees are brought into the appropriate market range for their positions. It also includes funding for new staff positions, new lecturers, and new tenure-line faculty positions in key areas of growth. We remain committed to faculty promotion raises, longevity pay, and continued implementation of the professor of instruction career track.

Looking Ahead with Confidence
Most importantly, this budget is balanced. In fact, we project a modest surplus, which gives us flexibility and stability as we plan for FY2027 and beyond.

Colleagues, this moment in our history is rare. We are growing. We are investing. We are achieving things few universities can match. And we are doing it together.

Thank you for your continued dedication to Texas State. It is truly a great time to be a Bobcat!

With gratitude,
 
Kelly Damphousse

President, Texas State University