Dear Colleagues,

As we prepare to return to campus after the holiday break and usher in a new spring semester in 2026, I am excited to welcome you back in a way that feels a little different, and a lot more inspiring. In January, the stars truly align for a gathering that celebrates who we are, why we do this work, and the bright future we are creating together.

In early January, you will receive an RSVP invitation to claim a seat as one of the 700 attendees in the room for the annual State of TXST event for faculty and staff on January 23 at 2 p.m. in the LBJSC Grand Ballroom. You will hear directly from our remarkable student panel, listen to my annual address, and witness the debut of our powerful new brand campaign and anthem video.

I am inviting all faculty and staff members on the San Marcos Campus to attend or watch live, if they are able. Offices essential to student services may remain open with skeleton crews; all other offices may close from 1:45–5 p.m. For those unable to join us in person, a watch party will be available in the LBJSC Ballroom, and the event will be livestreamed.

While faculty and staff from the Round Rock Campus are invited to attend in San Marcos, we will also host a dedicated State of TXST Round Rock Campus event on April 24. Be on the lookout for more details and registration later in the spring.

Over the past year, we have celebrated many milestones and achievements. This year stands to be one of the most meaningful and defining years in TXST’s storied history. I look forward to beginning it together.

Sincerely, 

 
Kelly Damphousse
President