Vice President for University Strategy/Chief of Staff
Dr. Credence Baker ’03, ’05
Assistant Vice President for Marketing and Communications
Nate Bural ’10
Tarleton State University Magazine is published by the Department of Marketing and Communications, Box T-0730, Stephenville, TX 76402
A MESSAGE
FROM PRESIDENT JAMES HURLEY
AT TARLETON STATE UNIVERSITY, we stand proud as Texans, pushing boundaries and embracing limitless possibilities.
For 125 years, Tarleton State has championed access, opportunity and affordability. Our rich history is the foundation of our success today, and as we look to the next 125 years, the future is filled with even greater promise.
As you explore this edition of our beautiful Tarleton State magazine, you’ll find stories that highlight the passion, resilience, and achievements of our students, faculty, staff, and alumni — each one a testament to the spirit of our community.
From groundbreaking initiatives in higher education to the triumphs of our nationally ranked NCAA Division I athletic programs, this is a university that continues to rise. Our commitment to addressing challenges in rural healthcare, the opening of new educational facilities, and the accomplishments of our scholars, athletes, and alumni all contribute to the growing national recognition of Tarleton State’s excellence.
On these pages, you’ll meet extraordinary individuals who have made — and continue to make — their mark on this incredible university. These are students chasing their dreams on both the national and international stage, alumni who are using their platforms to create positive change, and first-generation scholars who are leading with courage and vision.
Every story you read here reflects the heart of Tarleton State: a place where dedication, innovation and community thrive together. Our progress isn’t just something we celebrate — it’s the foundation for what’s to come. The possibilities truly are limitless.
I invite you to join us in this journey as we continue to elevate Tarleton State to new heights. May these stories inspire you, as they have inspired us.
Kindall and I, along with the entire Texan family, share our best wishes for a joyous holiday season and new year. We hope 2025 is a blessing to you.
Cover: Tarleton State University unveiled the Texan Rider statue prior to the football season opener in August. The statue stands more than 13.5 feet tall and weighs over 3,500 pounds.
May you forever bleed purple!
Paving Purple Way THE
Artist's rendering of the Dick Smith Library expansion.
Construction Continues
Rapid Progress Underway
As Tarleton State grows, the footprint of the university transforms.
A $110 million Event Center and $80 million Health Professions Building are each scheduled to open in 2025. The Event Center will play host to NCAA Division I basketball facilities and provide room
for academic convocations, symposiums and conferences.
The Health Professions Building will further establish the university as the leader in rural healthcare throughout the state.
The Dick Smith Library expansion project is underway as well, adding a 24/7 study space dedicated for student
use featuring individual and collaborative study rooms, instructional space, meeting rooms, and multipurpose space.
Earlier this year, a parking garage at North Saint Felix and West Washington streets opened, adding hundreds of additional spots for students and employees.
The new state-of-the-art Research and Economic Development Building was also introduced to the community. The university will share the facility, located at U.S. Highway 281 and East Lingleville Road, with Texas A&M AgriLife Research and the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.
Hall of Fame Worthy
Hampton Selected for Induction
Former Tarleton State rodeo standout JJ Hampton was inducted into the National Cowgirl Hall of Fame Nov. 12 at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth.
Born and raised in Stephenville, Hampton competed in her first rodeo at 4 years old. A roper for Tarleton State’s rodeo team, she was inducted to the university’s Rodeo Hall of Fame in 2014. Her pro career includes 18 Women’s Professional Rodeo Association world championships and 25 national titles.
Still active in professional rodeo, she also owns JJ Hampton Realty in Stephenville and produces the annual Johnny Wayne Hampton Memorial Roping in honor of her late father, benefiting a scholarship fund for Tarleton State students.
In Fort Worth, the grand opening of the Interprofessional Education Building was celebrated. The added space positions Tarleton State Fort Worth well to increase access to quality healthcare and education in the region and beyond.
Dr. Matt Maruska
Becomes First Chief Medical Officer
Tarleton State announced the addition of Dr. Matt Maruska as the university’s first Chief Medical Officer during the spring.
In the role, Dr. Maruska serves as Medical Director for campus health and well-being. He is also the Head Team Physician for Tarleton State Athletics while managing the direction of student health and wellness activities.
Since 2014, he has worked with patients at Cross Timbers Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine in Stephenville, specializing in the non-surgical treatment of all orthopedic or sports injuries and musculoskeletal conditions. As part of the position, he has handled team physician duties for Tarleton State, Stephenville High School, Ranger College, John Paul Stevens High School, the University of the Incarnate Word, the University of Texas at San Antonio and Waco ISD varsity football.
He has also served as Medical Director for Tarleton State’s Master of Science in Athletic Training program since 2017.
Board certified in family medicine, Dr. Maruska will lead the on-campus Student Wellness Center.
Dr. Brett Powell
Takes Over as CFO
Tarleton State has named Dr. Brett Powell the new Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President for Finance and Administration.
In the role, Dr. Powell oversees Tarleton State’s budgetary and fiscal affairs, including planning, monitoring, and managing overall financial plans, policies, and operations.
He comes to Tarleton State after spending the past five years in executive administration at Baylor University, where he most recently served as the associate vice president of finance since April 2022. Previously, he handled the duties of co-interim chief business officer and assistant vice president and controller.
During his time at Baylor, Dr. Powell led university treasury function, including debt management, liquidity management, short-term investment management, and debt covenant compliance, as well as financial reporting, accounting, payroll, and tax functions.
Additionally, he directed and led the development of a multiyear, multiphase capital plan in support of the university’s newly developed strategic plan. He also created a shared services model for accounting functions across all university departments and an assurance function to examine and monitor processes in high-risk areas to ensure financial security across the university.
Money Magazine List Recognizes
Tarleton State Money magazine named Tarleton State one of the “Best Colleges in America” for 2024.
The analysis by the magazine showcases the country’s top colleges and universities based on graduation rates, cost of attendance, financial aid and alumni salaries.
The magazine looked at more than 2,400 four-year public and private nonprofit colleges and universities in the U.S. Following the evaluation process, only 31 percent of institutions were honored. The three main categories were quality of education, affordability and student outcomes.
“This recognition is a credit to the tremendous work of our faculty, staff and students,” said Tarleton State President Dr. James Hurley. “We are proud to provide a university experience where access and opportunity come first. Our commitment to helping students grow academically, socially and professionally through a first-class education is unwavering.”
RFSI Grant Awarded to Tarleton State
A $749,410 grant funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service was awarded to Tarleton State as part of the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) program.
The RFSI program through the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) aims to help build resilience across the middle of the state’s food supply chain for food crops. The middle of the food supply chain occurs following harvest and before goods are sold at a store or market.
As part of the grant, Tarleton will facilitate stateled complementary supply chain coordination activities.
“We are honored to be invited by the Texas Department of Agriculture to partner with them on this project,” said Dr. Rupa Iyer, Tarleton State’s Vice President for Research, Innovation and Economic Development. “It is a testament to Tarleton State’s research capacity and ability to contribute to the economic development of our state.”
With cooperative agreements nationally, the USDA is investing $420 million in the RFSI program.
Students Take Home First
At National Educators Conference
Tarleton State Students Madison Klement and Journey Harris competed in the esteemed Educators Rising Conference for future leaders in education held in Washington, D.C.
Klement and Harris, undergraduate students in the teacher education program, participated in events at nationals, showcasing their skills as future educators. Both students received first place in their respective competitions, and Harris was elected president of the organization for 2024-2025.
Over 3,300 participants gathered for the student-led event.
Madison Klement (left) and Journey Harris (right) display their first-place medals from the 2024 Educators Rising Conference.
First Ph.D. Awarded
Former Special Agent Walks the Stage
Dr. Mark Brown received his doctorate in criminal justice at summer commencement, earning the first Ph.D. ever conferred by Tarleton State.
He retired from federal law enforcement in 2021 after working as a special agent for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the United States Department of Justice.
The awarding of Tarleton State’s first Ph.D. highlights the university’s 125-year commitment to academic excellence and dedication to addressing critical community and workforce needs.
“Dr. Brown’s academic achievements, in tandem with his vision and extensive practical experience, will continue to reflect positively on his time at our university as he advances his work,” said Dr. Diane Stearns, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs.
University Police Department
Keeping the Campus Community Safe
The Tarleton State University Police Department was ranked No. 18 in the “50 Safest Large Colleges and Universities” list by CollegeChoice last year.
Additionally, the department also recently renewed its Best Practices accreditation through the Texas Police Chiefs Association.
The Texas Law Enforcement Best Practices Accreditation Program is a voluntary process in which Texas police agencies are evaluated for their compliance with 170 Texas Law Enforcement Best Practices encompassing all aspects of law enforcement operations including use of force, protection of citizen rights, vehicle pursuits, property and evidence management, and patrol and investigative operations.
“Tarleton State University leads the way in many areas, and Tarleton State PD is no exception,” said University Police Chief Matt Welch. “We are proud to be the first and only department in our county to achieve this distinction. Adhering to universally recognized best practices helps to ensure the public trust for our Tarleton State community.”
Out of more than 2,800 police departments in Texas, just 211 are accredited by the TPCA.
125 Years of Excellence
Celebration Underway
Tarleton State University launched its 125 Years of Excellence celebration in the fall to honor the esteemed history and cherished traditions of the institution.
Throughout the year, events and activities will be branded and promoted as part of the celebration. To kick things off, Tarleton State football upended McNeese State 26-23 in the first game in program history to be aired on national television. A commemorative ceremony and anniversary celebration in September continued the festivities.
The year-long celebration will pay tribute to generations who have contributed to a legacy of student success while building excitement for the future.
Tarleton State University’s anniversary celebration featured inflatables, games, food trucks, cupcakes and more.
Members of the Tarleton State University Police Department from left: Officer Mike Schomers, Chief Matt Welch and Sgt. Malinda Spence.
Dr. James Hurley
Named CPUPC Treasurer
Tarleton State President Dr. James Hurley was named treasurer for the Council of Public University Presidents and Chancellors (CPUPC).
The nonprofit council is comprised of the chief executive officers of the Texas public general academic universities, system offices, healthrelated institutions and the three two-year state colleges in the Houston area.
“I am honored to be nominated and selected for this role,” said Dr. Hurley.
Since 1983, CPUPC has met to advance Texas’ public senior colleges and universities as they pursue their respective goals of academic excellence, student career preparation, innovative research and community service.
Dr. Emran El-Badawi
Selected as Dean of College of Liberal and Fine Arts
Following a national search, Dr. Emran El-Badawi was named Dean of Tarleton State’s College of Liberal and Fine Arts.
Most recently, he served as chair of the Department of Modern and Classical Languages at the University of Houston, where he was also director of the Middle Eastern Studies program. At UH, he founded the Arab Studies program and designed, implemented and assessed degree offerings in the humanities and sciences.
In his role, Dr. El-Badawi oversees the day-to-day operations of the College of Liberal and Fine Arts, including leading over 350 faculty and staff members, budget management, and curriculum development.
“Dr. El-Badawi’s forwarding-thinking approach makes him the ideal candidate for Tarleton State,” said Dr. Diane Stearns, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs. “His vision for bolstering our degree programs, enhancing faculty success, and fostering community engagement in the arts and humanities will illuminate the achievements of our largest college.”
Dr. J. Michael Leger
Named Dean of School of Nursing
Dr. J. (John) Michael Leger was named Tarleton State’s new Dean of the School of Nursing.
In his role, Dr. Leger manages the administrative functions of the School of Nursing and focuses on the plans and initiatives that support Tarleton Forward 2030: Our Future-Focused Strategic Plan.
He comes to Tarleton State after spending the past 10 years at The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) at Galveston. At UTMB, he served as a professor, track coordinator for the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) executive nurse leadership track and as the inaugural interim track coordinator for the nursing Ph.D. program.
“Dr. Leger is well-equipped to lead our School of Nursing, having over 20 years of experience as a healthcare executive, including roles such as chief nursing officer, vice president of nursing and hospital CEO,” said Dr. Ramona Ann Parker, Associate Vice President and Executive Dean for the College of Health Sciences. “I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and am confident that, under his leadership, we will continue to advance and strengthen our program.”
A Tarleton State
Texan Rider Statue Unveiled in Front of Memorial Stadium
Icon
By Elaine Hellmund
Texan fans had even more to be proud of as they flocked to Memorial Stadium this season. The newest statue on the Tarleton State University campus, the Texan Rider, debuted at the football home opener and was eagerly received by dignitaries, alumni, faculty, staff and students.
Waving his hat high in the air atop his rearing steed, the larger-thanlife bronze embodiment of the beloved Texan Rider mascot was created
Sculptor Mike Tabor, a distinguished Tarleton State alumnus, styled the Texan Rider statue with a classic look in a nod to the university’s storied heritage.
by sculptor Mike Tabor, the distinguished Tarleton State alumnus who also created the life-size bronze statue of Maj. Gen. James Earl Rudder installed in 2017 on Rudder Way.
Tabor styled the Texan Rider statue with a classic look in a nod to the university’s storied heritage. The rider sports an “old Texan” look, with a vintage haircut, neck rag and hat creased in a 1950s style. His hat is held in one hand flung high in the air, and his face is serious but not scowling, “like he came to play,” Tabor said.
Real-life Texan Rider Kolt Byrd, a junior who has represented the iconic mascot at sporting events and other Tarleton State
activities since 2023, said the 3,500-pound, 1.5-life-sized statue represents a monumental era for the university and makes him and his fellow students proud.
“The statue boosts school spirit and reminds everyone of their shared experiences and commitment to the university,” Byrd said. “It also helps create a sense of unity and excitement, especially during games and events.”
The Texan Rider statue is dedicated to David Mayfield’s -M- Family Ranch to honor his life of ranching, love of the land and interest in rodeo sports.
Reception of the sculpture has been enthusiastic, with many fans commenting on the symbolism and artistry, including alumna Lisa Roark, who received her bachelor’s degree from the institution in 1997 and Master of Education in 2001.
“A lot of people get confused about who our college mascot is because we have several traditions and spirit organizations on campus with Oscar P and the Purple Poo,” observed Roark after the unveiling.
“This statue shows who we are as Tarleton Texans, and I’m so glad to see it displayed prominently on campus.”
“The statue boosts school spirit and reminds everyone of their shared experiences and commitment to the university.”
— Kolt Byrd
The representative horse and rider emerged as the athletic mascot of Tarleton State in the wake of a student body vote to call themselves and their sports teams “Texans” and “TexAnns” in 1961, a couple of years after the two-year college became a four-year university. Every few years, a new student is selected to fulfill the role of Texan Rider at official events, promoting Tarleton’s school spirit and traditions.
Tabor, who graduated from Tarleton State in 1981 with a bachelor’s degree in art, is not only one of the most respected postmodern Western expressionist painters in the United States and an accomplished sculptor, but he is also heavily involved in public art works. His multiple-media portfolio includes the nationally renowned life-size bronze embodiment of Team Hoyt, the ESPY-winning father-son duo best known for their 32year participation in the Boston Marathon. The sculpture is located near the marathon starting line staging area in Hopkinton, Mass.
As a Texan himself, Tabor is proud to have played an integral part in the bronze mascot’s realization on campus where fans can enjoy it. He’s dreamed about seeing it in front of Memorial Stadium for years, he said.
“Oh yeah, I’m super excited. This is a pinnacle achievement for me, to be able to leave my mark at my alma mater, and very rewarding for me to see this statue in its forever home.”
In front of the new Texan Rider statue, a plaque showcases some of the key people behind the addition of the sculpture to campus.
By Sven Alskog
Meeting
the
Need
Artist’s rendering of the new Health Professions Building at Tarleton State. The new facility is scheduled to open in 2025.
In rural and medically underserved communities, obtaining access to healthcare can be a life-ordeath situation.
Adding to the complex issue, nearly 84 million Americans currently live in Primary Care Health Professional Shortage Areas, a clear sign that the time to act is now.
Expanding the availability of healthcare resources is crucial to addressing overall well-being and disease prevention, as well as ensuring earlier detection, diagnosis, and treatment of illness to help avoid
preventable deaths, lower infant mortality, improve quality of life, and increase life expectancy.
“By providing access to high-quality academic and hands-on experiences for our students, we can help transform the availability of critical services to those who need them the most,” said Tarleton State President Dr. James Hurley.
“Our university is poised to be the educational epicenter for rural healthcare, not only in our region but beyond.”
Between 2025 and 2026, Tarleton State will
add new degree programs in biomechatronics, integrative biosciences, occupational therapy, physical therapy and physician assistant studies. These offerings will bolster the firm foundation of health education programs already in place.
Additionally, a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience was recently launched through the College of Science and Mathematics.
Creating a healthier future for all is at the forefront when planning new programs.
“Our focus is working with communities to
identify the healthcare needs and to be part of a solution in addressing the health disparities,” said Dr. Ramona Ann Parker, Tarleton State’s Associate Vice President and Executive Dean for the College of Health Sciences.
In April 2024, Texas Governor Greg Abbott sent a letter to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board directing an immediate response to addressing healthcare workforce shortages.
“The State of Texas has invested millions in job training grants to help
“Texas is the fastest growing state in the nation, and it is vital that we continue to expand our healthcare workforce to meet the needs of our citizens as we build a bigger, better Texas.”
— Governor Greg Abbott
prepare students for highdemand careers, such as nursing, to meet the healthcare needs of our state, but we must do more,” wrote Abbott in the letter. “To help address the healthcare workforce shortage, I am directing the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to immediately create a task force to provide opportunities and remove barriers that exist to expand healthcare programs at institutions and provide students with the tools necessary to succeed in this field in Texas.
“Texas is the fastest growing state in the nation, and it is vital that we continue to expand our healthcare workforce to meet the needs of our citizens as we build a bigger, better Texas.”
According to the National Rural Health Association, 135 rural hospitals in the United States have closed since 2010, with 453 more vulnerable to closure. Adding to the concern, nearly one million adults in rural areas across the U.S. describe their health status as poor.
In Stephenville, the patient-physician ratio is 1,779 to 1, illustrating the need for intervention.
To help answer the region's demands, Tarleton State broke ground on an $80 million Health
Professions Building in January 2024. The building will further establish the university as the leader in educating and preparing individuals to work in rural and medically underserved communities throughout Texas. Move-in is scheduled for summer 2025.
The new facility’s large and adaptable rooms allow students and faculty to collaborate and have interprofessional experiences. In addition, specialized labs will further train and prepare students to be practice-ready.
“The recent development of the three health programs — OTD, DPT and PA — is a direct response to the state’s support to educate and expand rural health practice and practitioners to serve our community,” said Dr. Shannon Levandowski, Tarleton State’s Occupational Therapy Program Director.
“These students will have intentional and focused learning opportunities to enhance their understanding and application of rural based healthcare.”
No other OTD programs exist within a 60-mile radius of Stephenville, positioning the new academic offering well to address the needs of the region.
Granted candidacy status by the Accreditation for Occupational Therapy
Education, the program will be accepting its first cohort of students in summer 2025. It’s all possible because of the new building.
By adding 92,000 square feet of space and investing in key programs to benefit students, Tarleton State is committed to addressing the staffing shortages many clinics and hospitals are facing.
The new offerings will only enhance the significant impact that Tarleton alumni are already making across the region.
Chris Smith, a 2018 MSAT graduate, serves as the head athletic trainer at Burleson High School. He completed his Doctor of Athletic Training at Ohio University in 2024.
“My education through Tarleton’s MSAT program has shaped the way I provide healthcare to patients today,” he said. “From collaboration with other healthcare professionals to interactions with diverse populations, the strategies learned have led me to being a lifelong learner. Leadership values
Tarleton State nursing students receive hands-on experience during their time in the program as they prepare to make a difference in communities across Texas and beyond. The 2024 cohort has boasted a 94.67% pass rate on NCLEX-RN exams.
in healthcare obtained during my education is what prepared me the most for overseeing student-athlete healthcare for Burleson ISD.” Madison McBride graduated from the same program as Smith in 2019 and is currently pursuing her Doctor of Athletic Training at A.T. Still University. Over the past five years, she has put
what was learned during her time on campus into action daily.
“My education at Tarleton State gave me real-world experience that I apply to my healthcare setting every day,” she said. “As the head athletic trainer at Brewer High School, I am equipped to provide holistic care to every athlete. This grants
me the opportunity to continuously advocate for the patient in any situation while remaining on the cutting edge of healthcare."
Karlie Hare, a two-time Tarleton State graduate who earned her bachelor’s in social work in 2022 and master’s in social work in August 2023, is a mental health therapist at Mesa Springs, a behavioral health
hospital located in Fort Worth.
She assists patients in meeting their treatment goals by working in group therapy settings where they learn about symptom management, understanding oneself and how to face challenges.
“My goal every day is to create a space that patients feel comfortable being
vulnerable in and grow in,” she said. “I could not do my job without the education I received at Tarleton. This is something that I reflect on daily. I think back on the lectures, internship hours and research that I had to complete and find myself incredibly grateful for it all.”
Lyric Richardson, a first-gen student, graduated in 2020 with a bachelor’s
degree in kinesiology and in 2022 with a master’s in exercise science. She currently serves as a rehabilitation technician at the Stillwater Medical Center where she is a third-year Ph.D. student at Oklahoma State University. In her role, she assists physical and occupational therapists with rehab.
Reflecting on her journey, she shared advice for current and future students.
“Do not be afraid of failure. It will only make you stronger and more confident. Additionally, keep in mind everyone's journey is different and you do not have to know your end goals coming in as a freshman. As long as you study what you are most passionate about, everything else will fall into place.”
In Fort Worth, many of the professionals working in the hospital setting are from Tarleton State’s medical lab science program, which debuted with eight students enrolled in 1978.
While a large portion of the impact from Tarleton’s programs is felt regionally, 1989 graduate Elicia Leal has traversed the world, highlighted by working as the athletic trainer with the 2004 USA women’s water polo team that won bronze in Athens, Greece.
She has also provided care for notable names including Michael Phelps, Jennie Finch, Mia Hamm and Toby Stevenson.
To make the lofty dreams of students possible, the School of Nursing, School of Kinesiology, and School of Health and Clinical Professions allow students to explore a variety of pathways during their time at Tarleton State.
Providing opportunities for hands-on experiences from day one is paramount. Clinical experiential learning is threaded into the curriculum, putting students in a position to work side-by-side with the community.
For Dr. Parker, who followed in her mother’s
footsteps as a nurse, it was a natural fit to join Tarleton State in 2022, where her focus on collaboration could shine.
“It was just a very unique opportunity to be a part of a team that will impact healthcare. The COHS has over 15 undergraduate and graduate programs, including social work, medical lab science, public health, nutrition science, nursing, kinesiology, physical and occupational therapy, and a physician assistant program. They all seek to educate individuals who focus on health promotion and disease prevention in rural and medically underserved communities,” she said.
With Texas facing a significant shortage of primary care physicians, particularly in rural areas, Tarleton State is planning for the future.
In August 2024, a formal feasibility study was commissioned to determine specific requirements and opportunities related to a College of Osteopathic Medicine at Tarleton State.
With just 16 medical schools in Texas, most located along the I-35 corridor, a significant geographical gap exists in North Central Texas.
By collaborating with rural hospitals, clinics and community organizations, Tarleton State has the potential to provide immense regional impact.
“It would be a phenomenal move if Tarleton State could do this,” said Dr. Parker. “We need more primary care physicians, and this would be the answer to that call.”
Left: The medical lab science program originated in 1978. Above: A map of medical schools in Texas displays where Tarleton State will help address disparities.
Setting the Standard
Tarleton State Rodeo Continues Championship Legacy
By Phil Riddle
In athletics, a team or individual that dominates their sport or league for an extended length of time is referred to as a dynasty. Within professional sports, think the New England Patriots of the first two decades of the 2000s and the New York Yankees of the late-1990s and early 2000s.
When it comes to collegiate rodeo, a strong argument could be made that
Tarleton State fits the same mold.
The program has been dominant for years, starting with it first national championship in 1967 and its most recent this year. Overall, the men and women have accumulated nearly 40 combined individual and team titles.
Coach Mark Eakin, who has led the Tarleton State men’s team to two national titles in the last three years, knows he is part of something special.
“The people before us set such a high standard,” he said. “We try every day to reach that goal, and it’s paying off for us in the long run. Whether it’s a dynasty, I don’t know, but it’s definitely something we are proud of, and we want everyone that supports us to be proud of the program.”
He is quick to credit backers of the team as the overriding reason for Tarleton State’s position as a college rodeo powerhouse.
“That sets it apart from other places,” he said. “For instance, there are more members of the administration that go to nationals to support us. It just seems like the whole town is behind us. We are in the Cowboy Capital of the World, so it’s kind of expected that we do well.”
The purple vested men’s rodeo team further cemented its place among collegiate blue bloods last summer by claiming the program’s 38th and 39th national championships, one in team competition and one as a result of saddle bronc rider Gus Gaillard’s individual crown at the College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR) in Casper, Wyo.
The 2024 Tarleton State men’s and women’s rodeo CNFR participants with head coach Mark Eakin.
Gus Gaillard enters the 2024-25 season as the defending national champion saddle bronc rider.
Like his coach, Gaillard demurred on calling the program a dynasty.
“I don’t know.” he said. “That would probably be a good question for somebody else. I think we’re the best school anywhere for rodeo. We have the best practice horses and the best facilities of anywhere in the nation.
“I don’t think I can answer that particular question, but I think we’re the best right now.”
The men’s team of Gaillard, Ira Dickinson, Roedy Farrell, Landris White, Bailey Small and Mason Spain combined to claim Tarleton State’s national crown in June.
Gaillard scored an impressive 83.5 to tie for first in the championship finals in Casper and win the average with a four-head total of 319, featuring 78.5 scores in all three preliminary rounds.
He edged Dickinson, his Tarleton State teammate, who tied for first in
the finals with his own 83.5, earning reserve champion status with a composite 317.5.
Farrell, a bareback rider, took top honors in the championship finals with his 81.5 and wound up fourth in Casper with a 313 total. White nailed down a fifth-place CNFR finish in the finals with his personal CNFR-best 4.5 in steer wrestling.
In addition, Tarleton State’s women’s team captured the runner-up spot in Casper. Barrel racers Jordan Driver and Hadley Tidwell, along with goat tyers Rayme Jones and Tori Brower, qualified for the CNFR by winning the highly competitive National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association Southwest Region. They trailed only the University of West Alabama on the final leaderboard.
With the number of titles increasing, Eakin doesn’t like to compare his championship teams.
“Every team is special, and every team is different,” he said. “This group was really close. Most of them live at the facility and spend a lot of time together. But with every group, you just try to make the best of their talents.”
Those talents will be an important part of defending Tarleton State’s latest team title. How to accomplish that is already on the minds of team members and coaches. With a squad made up mostly of returnees, Tarleton will be long on experience.
“We have a lot of the team coming back, and we’re expecting good things from them,” said Eakin. “We have to make sure everybody is putting the team first and they’re there for each other.
“It’s a roller coaster ride. There will be highs and lows. You just want to end up on a high.”
Tori Brower (left) and Jordan Driver (right) were each members of Tarleton State’s 2024 CNFR women’s reserve champion team.
HISTORY MAKER
Senior Wins Silver at Olympics
By Sven Alskog
Olympic medalist.
Full-time employee.
College student.
Conner Prince does it all.
A senior manufacturing and industrial management major at Tarleton State, he took home silver in skeet shooting at the 2024 Paris Olympics while representing the USA. He is the first competitor in school history to medal, according to university archives.
His teammate and coach, four-time Olympic champion Vincent Hancock, won the gold by one target after connecting on 58 of his 60 attempts.
Four years earlier after securing top honors at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Hancock told Prince that it would be the two of them representing the USA the next time around.
At first, the protégé was skeptical. He had faced adversity following the 2020 Tokyo trials, which did not go fully according to plan. He was still relatively new to the competitive side of things, and bumps in the road were to be expected.
“But I just started to continually progress in the sport in ways I didn’t think were possible,” said Prince. “It’s partially due to Vincent and his knowledge of the sport because he’s been doing it so long. For him to be able to pass that knowledge on to me has been a blessing.”
As Hancock predicted, the 2024 Olympic finals came down to the final attempts between the two Americans.
“After those last two shots, we just turned and screamed at each other because we knew we did it,” said Prince. “That was definitely a moment I’ll never forget.”
His Paris experience was memorable for many reasons, including interacting with notable athletes like LeBron James and Steph Curry.
“We each had the same title of Olympian. We were all there to do the same thing, and that’s win. It’s super cool that we are on the same team in a sense — Team USA.”
With a hectic schedule taking him all over the world, finding a flexible academic option was essential.
“I needed to find a university that would fit my needs. I got to doing research, and Tarleton had their fully online program for manufacturing and industrial management, so that definitely attracted me
to it because I could work full time still and continue to shoot. It all just kind of worked together, and I don’t think it could have turned out any better.”
The journey to the world stage started by chance in 2014 when Prince attended an event for incoming freshmen at Centennial High School in Burleson. There, he found a booth for the Spartan Clay Target team. Prince decided to give it a shot.
It was the start of something special.
By the time he was a junior, former USA shooting athlete Dustin Perry had moved to town, giving Prince a coach who would lead him through his freshman year of college.
The two maintain a strong relationship and continue to talk regularly to this day.
In addition to coaches, family has been there every step of the way.
“For them to support me ever since 2014 when I started just shooting in general to leading up to this, I don’t think I could have asked for anything better,” said Prince. “It’s just been
a tremendous amount of support.”
He credits his dad, who he works with in a fulltime capacity at Four Way Machine in Burleson, as his biggest influence. Conner manages the family shop, which has around 10 employees and 13 CNC machines.
“He’s my best friend, mentor and business partner in a way for here at the shop. He’s just been an unreal amount of support. Love him to death. I don’t know if I could have made it where I am today without him. I’m very blessed to have him.”
With his supporters all around, Prince has his eyes on the future.
In the short term, he plans to graduate this winter before taking on an expanded role at the shop.
He also has a four-year plan.
“I’d like to go through to the 2028 Olympics if everything permits. I think it’d be cool to finish out my career on top — maybe getting gold — on the home turf in LA.”
Conner Prince (left) and USA teammate and coach Vincent Hancock (right) celebrate after claiming the top two spots in skeet shooting at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Photo courtesy of Joshua Schave.
Educators Together
Dr. Marc and Amy Faulkner met at Tarleton State University, and they’ve been together ever since. They both graduated in 1997 with education degrees and have taught and worked together in the same school district — sometimes even in the same school — their entire careers.
And they wouldn’t have it any other way.
That alignment is something the couple has experienced since they met. They both wanted to be teachers when they set out for Tarleton State, and they specifically sought out districts that would hire them both after graduation.
“I come from a long line of educators throughout my family,” said Marc. “My mother and father were educators. I have three aunts, one uncle, a brother and a sister-in-law who are all educators. I guess you could kind of say it runs in our blood.”
The pair met when they moved in with their respective brothers in the same apartment complex their sophomore year. All four, plus Marc’s brother’s wife, graduated on the same day in 1997.
When Marc and Amy both taught at the same schools, they enjoyed the convenience of attending meetings and school events together. Eventually Marc moved to
By Elaine Hellmund
Despite Challenges, Faulkners Focus on Students
administration, and these days they don’t see each other as much during work. Marc is superintendent of the China Spring Independent School District, near Waco, and Amy teaches honors and AP English at China Spring High School.
“I see her a handful of times a year during the school day,” Marc said. But working in the same district means they are on the same schedule when it comes to the holidays and districtspecific events. And that makes for a more organized family calendar.
On a typical day, they both leave for work within a few minutes of each other around 6 a.m., she to prepare for her classes and he to embark on the school bus route he drives every morning and afternoon.
“And it’s just solid kids all day long till 4 o’clock, and then I’m out driving the school bus again and she’s preparing for the next day,” Marc said.
Amy is so dedicated to her students that despite battling an aggressive form of cancer for the past eight years, she hasn’t taken off any additional sick time — only the time required for her cancer treatments. She said being around her students helps keep her mind off her illness.
“It’s been the biggest blessing to be a teacher through this whole battle because it does give me something else to focus on,” Amy added. “You don’t have time to sit around and think about being sick and what
you’re having to go through because you’re busy with the kids and interacting with them and teaching your lessons. They have stories to tell, and they have needs. I don’t want to take away from my students’ time and being the best teacher that I can for them.”
She was first diagnosed with stage four cervical cancer in 2016 at age 40. Despite initial treatment, her cancer returned and has metastasized to other parts of her body. She started a clinical trial in August.
“We just take it day by day,” Amy said. “We are big supporters of making memories and making each day count. We try to take a trip every summer and every other winter with our kids because we honestly don't know how many years we have left as a family.”
Daughter Raelynn, 23, is a NICU nurse. Son Brayden, 20, is attending college on a football scholarship and majoring in mechanical engineering.
Amy and Marc agree that their education at Tarleton State, plus student teaching, well equipped them for their careers in the public schools.
“I wouldn’t have been half the teacher I was if I had not gone through that program and had the student teaching experience that prepared me to be a better educator,” said Marc. Added Amy: “Tarleton set us up well, and we’re very thankful for that.”
Inspired by
By Phil Riddle
PASSION
Cooking Drives Tarleton State Student To Succeed
As the old Dorothy Dix saying goes, “You never saw a very busy person who was unhappy.”
She must have had Tarleton State student Jonathan Alexander in mind when she said it.
Alexander is a husband, father and business major who expects to graduate in May. He volunteers as part of the media and culinary ministries at his church, he works full time as a configuration analyst at Lockheed Martin, and he owns and operates his own catering business — his passion — Alexander’s Cuisine.
“There is never a dull moment,” he says. “I wake up and start my day at 4 a.m. and survive on catnaps and coffee. And I love it.”
He began cooking as a child, learning recipes
and cooking tips from his grandparents in Louisiana and ultimately working for two world-renowned chefs.
“It’s been something that has grown inside of me over the years,” he said. “I feel like good food brings the family around.”
Working with various dishes, he created a chicken shrimp alfredo recipe he thought was special. “I let one of my barbers try it out and they said, ‘I think you’ve got something here.’ I started selling it and the demand for it has been a favorite since.
“My family, my children and my wife are very important to me. I want to create a legacy, something I can pass on. That always motivates me.”
Part of the culinary legacy he is building toward is the commercial aspect of running his own business.
“The drive stems from me actually jumping out there and seeing there was a demand,” Alexander said. “Once I saw I could monetize the food, that motivated me from there. I’m very big on creating multiple streams of income, and cooking is one of the things I’m very interested in.”
His efforts to earn a business degree, and ultimately an MBA, are major pieces to his plans for his catering work.
“I realized it was time to go back to school,” he said. “What I will say about being in school at this stage in life is how almost everything I learn can be directly applied to Alexander’s Cuisine. I see a lot of fruit from my classes. It’s like a plug and play for my business. Most of what I learn I can take immediately to use. It’s a very real benefit.”
Growing up in Fort Worth, he watched as Tarleton State’s campus there expanded.
“It’s a growing campus and it’s comprised of all types of working students, he said. “There are usually students who are my age, a little older, a little younger. There’s a lot of first-time students fresh out of high school as well. It’s a big melting pot.”
While working toward a financially successful outcome, Alexander also makes sure his business features benevolent avenues as the venture grows.
“We do a scholarship program every year, awarding one to a deserving senior,” he said. “We have them write a one-page essay explaining why they want to go to college. We have a very heavy philanthropic effort. We give the scholarships in the spring, and in the fall we do coat drives.”
Though the busyness of his life can be overwhelming at times, there are moments
Tarleton State student Jonathan Alexander, a business major and chef, showcases his Sensational Strawberry Salad.
when the long hours are rewarded.
“A few months ago, my son was asked to do a project in school,” he said. “He called me up and said, ‘Dad, the project I chose was you and Alexander’s Cuisine.’ He Googled my name, and my food started popping up.
“That was kind of a light bulb moment, like this was really worth it.”
"I want to create a legacy, something I can pass on. That always motivates me.”
— Jonathan Alexander
From Star to Student MasterChef Junior Competitor Working
Toward Tarleton State Degree
By Phil Riddle
Shayne “the Train” Wells’ personality made him a hit on TV’s MasterChef Junior long before he came to study at Tarleton State University.
By the time he was 12 years old, he’d already spent lots of time in the kitchen, so his appearance on the show seemed like a natural progression.
“As a kid, I always loved being the center of attention,” Wells said. “On Sunday afternoons, everyone in my family was always in the kitchen. But they wouldn’t just let me stand around, so they put me to work. I found out I really loved it.”
One of his first culinary memories is of him and his grandfather stuffing the Thanksgiving turkey when he was 6 or 7 years old.
“I didn’t start preparing meals by myself until I was a little older, of course, but I would always help out in the kitchen.”
His mother let him cook in order to keep him quiet.
“She always used to tell me she loved me better on TV because she could mute me,” he laughed. “She would send me to the kitchen to chop things or something like that to give her a little time away from me.”
An avid sports fan, Wells got his nickname during his time in youth
football, and his shot at TV fame stemmed from failing to make his junior high basketball team in Spring, Texas.
“I was so bummed,” he said. “My mom had seen a flyer about an open call for MasterChef Junior and suggested I audition to get my mind off not making the basketball team.”
The audition included preparing an egg — he went with poached — and an interview, which he aced.
“They told us we would get a call back within a couple of weeks if they wanted us to come back. I got a call back on the way home.”
Wells was a hit on the fifth season of the show, finishing third. He also made some high-profile friends, opening the door for a later appearance on the adult version of the show.
“It was very humbling,” he said. “It opened up so many opportunities for me. I’ve gotten to cook with Gordon Ramsay and Eric Stonestreet, and film a commercial with Emmitt Smith and Jerry Rice. All these things I got to do before I was 18 years old. I was beyond blessed.”
His competition on the adult show was another case of one door opening as one closed.
“The only reason I was able to go on the adult show was because I was going to a community college,” he said.
“If I’d been at a four-year university, living in a dorm, I wouldn’t have been able to drop all my classes and do all that. It was another example of God closing a door and opening a bigger door. Something great came out of missing out.”
At the age of 18, he was once again in the limelight.
“I was just there to have fun,” he said. “I was grateful for every day I had in the competition.”
While on the set of MasterChef, Wells met a Stephenville restauranteur, Cowboy Chef Mike Newton, and they hit it off.
“I worked with him at his restaurant,” Wells said, “and he asked if I’d ever thought of coming to school at Tarleton, so I toured the campus. It was the closest thing you could get to a personal connection to a school.”
He is currently on a path to graduate in December 2025 with a degree in agribusiness.
Though he still works at Newton’s Saddlerack in Stephenville and his passion for cooking has not abated, he is not sure that’s his future.
“I’ve come to realize I like my weekends and holidays too much to be a chef,” Wells said. “I’m not saying I couldn’t do it, but I haven’t decided if I could do that for the rest of my life.”
Shayne Wells advanced to the semifinals on the fifth season of MasterChef Junior.
Photo courtesy of FOX.
BUILDING FORT
New Programs and Facilities Expanding Tarleton State’s Reach in Thriving City
As part of the evolving academic landscape in North Texas, Tarleton State’s Fort Worth campus is transforming education throughout the region with new programs and a second building.
For fall 2024, a total of 24 undergraduate degree programs are available for first- and second-year students. Overall, the Fort Worth campus provides more than 60 academic offerings for undergraduate and graduate students.
Program expansions have enabled the campus to open its doors to all levels of students, making Tarleton State the only public four-year institution in the city to offer the full undergraduate academic experience.
“Creating this level of access and opportunity for students at our Fort Worth campus is critical,” said university President Dr.
By Becca Johnson
James Hurley. “The addition of these lower-level courses continues to display our commitment to meeting workforce needs in the nation’s fastest growing large city. I am proud of everyone on our team for working together to make this a reality.”
This development provides greater accessibility for students in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, allowing them to complete foundational coursework close to home while benefiting from the university’s supportive environment and small class sizes.
“Celebrating new beginnings as well as honoring our history is profoundly meaningful,” said Dr. Rachael Capua, Vice President for External Operations and Dean of Tarleton State Fort Worth.
“As we commemorate 125 Years of Excellence, it is a momentous milestone that we have also welcomed our inaugural first-year class to Tarleton State Fort Worth.”
WORTH’S FUTURE
Campus traditions that have been enjoyed by first-time Texans in Stephenville for years, such as Duck Camp and Texan Orientation, are now available and encouraged for students across all locations, giving them opportunities to learn about the university and build community before classes begin.
“Coming into college, I was super nervous about the workload, making friends and how college life would be. Tarleton has shown me in just a few short months how many resources there are for me,” said Emma King, a first-year student at Tarleton State Fort Worth. “There are so many people willing to help with coursework, opportunities to meet new people and so many fun activities each week. Tarleton is such a welcoming college, and I'm so glad to be a part of the Tarleton family.”
A second building also opened this fall, providing the necessary facilities to accommodate new educational programs and students.
The $66 million Interprofessional Education building features classrooms, laboratories and collaborative spaces to support students in their transformative education. The building houses
a room providing seating for 250 guests to host community-wide events, workshops, lectures and programs.
Addressing the need for increased access to quality education and healthcare helped inspire the university to offer programs and instruction that will help meet some of these demands.
With exponential growth expected for Fort Worth and its surrounding communities in the coming years, Tarleton State has worked intentionally to assemble various resources to ensure access to affordable education is in reach for students in the area.
One entry point is through Tarleton Today, a partnership that offers prospective students an immersive opportunity to explore academic programs, campus resources and student life.
“Creating educational opportunities for students in our city is essential for fostering the next generation of leaders and ensuring our collective success,” said Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker. “Initiatives like the Crowley ISD and Tarleton State partnership, ‘Tarleton Today,’ are pivotal in accelerating college preparation and retaining local talent through scholarships.
“It is imperative that every student in Fort Worth has access to pathways that align with industry needs and prepare them for the workforce or further education. The Mayor’s Council on Education and Workforce Development, alongside the Tarrant To & Through (T3) Partnership, is committed to equipping students with the tools and opportunities necessary to excel and meet future workforce demands.”
Crowley ISD signed a partnership agreement with the university in July. Through dual credit, students can take in-person classes at Tarleton State Fort Worth, giving them a taste of university life before graduation. In the first semester of the partnership, there are more than 260 students enrolled.
“We are confident that this collaboration will provide our students with high-quality academic experiences that will challenge them and inspire their future goals,” said Crowley ISD Superintendent Dr. Michael D. McFarland.
Along with earlier access to education, Tarleton State Fort Worth also offers eligible incoming freshmen the opportunity to engage with the Tarleton Promise program, allowing eligible first-year students to attend free of tuition and fees.
“We believe that a student’s financial situation should never prevent them from earning a college degree,” said Dr. Hurley. “Our university was founded as an institution of opportunity, and the Tarleton Promise program is one way that we continue to live out that legacy.”
Making affordable and transformative education possible has been a part of Tarleton State’s mission in Fort Worth since 1978, when the university initially expanded its reach to the city. At the time, just eight students were enrolled studying medical laboratory science.
This expansion brought higher education opportunities closer to urban communities and laid the foundation for the successes of today. As the original campus in Fort Worth saw increased enrollment and outgrew its existing facilities, university leaders sought a new location that could accommodate long-term growth.
Top: Attendees at the grand opening ceremony for the new Interprofessional Education Building. Bottom: Tarleton State Fort Worth students make their way to class on campus.
Thanks to 80 acres donated by Walton Global Holdings Ltd., the perfect spot was found.
The permanent location on Chisholm Trail Parkway in southwest Fort Worth was opened in 2019 and saw a steady increase in enrollment despite the global pandemic that created difficulty for growth on most university campuses. Today, student enrollment is approximately 2,600.
Tarleton State University’s expansion in the city represents more than just physical growth; it signifies a dedication to accessible, high-quality education. By investing in new programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and initiatives like the Tarleton Today and Tarleton Promise programs, the university ensures students have the tools they need to succeed.
As the physical footprint grows and academic offerings increase, Tarleton State’s impact in Fort Worth is only just beginning.
By Elaine Hellmund
Empowering First-gen Students
Tarleton State Alumna Addressing Key Area
Tom and Jessica Schneider enjoy spending time outdoors in Colorado with their dogs, Bailey and Winston. Photo courtesy of Magnolia & Grace Photography
Go for it. Don’t look back. Get involved. Then, stay engaged and give back.
That’s how Jessica Schneider approached college as a firstgeneration student at Tarleton State University, and how she continues to keep the momentum going.
The 2009 business graduate established the Jessica Shaver Schneider Endowed Scholarship for first-gen college students like herself to get the extra help they need to make their college dreams come true. Financial challenges were a hindrance for her and her family, and she wants others to know that resources are available.
“I hope it is taking that burden off of other students, knowing they do have a little bit of help,” Schneider said. “I had help throughout my college career, and I want to make sure that other students have the opportunity to get their college education if they’re needing that help.”
Schneider encourages anyone wanting to pursue college but unsure if it’s feasible to not shy from seeking assistance.
“Asking for help is not a bad thing. If it’s a monetary reason, then there’s a way to do it,” she said. “Tarleton State affords you so many opportunities that I don’t think you could get at the larger schools, especially now that there’s
other campuses you can commute to if you need to for work or whatever else. If there’s a will, there’s a way — make it happen.”
Schneider had the will, and she found the way. She knew other students who had gone to Tarleton and thought Stephenville was just far enough away from her family in Euless to feel like she’d “gone away to college” but close enough to go home if she needed to.
“But I never really moved home once I went to school,” she admitted. “I just really embraced Tarleton State and Stephenville, immersing myself in it. Maybe that’s why I was involved in so much. It kind of kept me busy so I didn’t really have time to think about how I was away from home.”
During her time on campus, she involved herself in numerous honor societies, social, leadership and service groups, including Alpha Gamma Delta, one of five Panhellenic sororities at Tarleton State. She said the friendships she formed and the guidance of her sorority advisers, along with her teachers, provided a support network.
“I was involved in pretty much everything I could be. Thinking back now I’m like, ‘How did I ever do that? How was there enough time in the day?’ I always tell everyone that Tarleton State really made me who I am, and being in
Alpha Gamma Delta. Those two together provided me a future that I wouldn’t have had if I had gone somewhere else.”
Schneider now works as a disease area lead in the oncology group for Novartis Pharmaceuticals. Although she and her husband, Tom, live in Colorado, she stays involved with her alma mater as an Alpha Gamma Delta adviser and donates routinely where she can to the Tarleton State alumni group, the sorority or other various causes when she sees that help is needed. Novartis matches her donations, and she urges others to find out if their employers offer a donation match.
“It’s one of those things a lot of companies probably do but don’t necessarily advertise, but if you start asking you might be surprised that they do,” she said. “That was a big piece of it for my endowment. Even if it is $25, a company match doubles it. So that could mean something to someone.”
Schneider is passionate about encouraging others to donate, no matter the amount.
“I’m fortunate to be in the position to give back,” she continued. “But I say any amount matters. Whatever you can contribute is still an amount that someone could use. I tell a lot of people that. Every little bit is going to help.”
HOME SWEET
By Becca Johnson
Homecoming at Tarleton State features a week of deep-rooted celebrations and traditions, making it a pivotal part of the university culture, with some of the earliest traditions dating back to the 1920s.
The festivities this fall were especially memorable, as 125 Years of Excellence were celebrated, bringing back many memories for students, faculty, staff and alumni.
Beating the Drum, Snake Dance, Yell Contest, Midnight Breakfast, Silver Bugle Hunt, the L.V. Risinger Memorial Bonfire and the Homecoming Parade are a few events that help make the week unforgettable each year.
Students still proudly embrace these traditions today, along with celebrating a few new ones. The Launching of the Ducks is a recent addition celebrated across every Tarleton State campus. Students write their dreams on a rubber duck and toss them into pools of water, signifying the launching of their goals.
Rounding out the festivities this year, Tarleton State football picked up its second straight 42-0 shutout win on Homecoming. After the cannons sounded at the end of the game and the Color Song was played, onlookers enjoyed a Tarleton-themed drone show highlighting the spirit of the university, marking a fitting end to a memorable week.
Alumna Wins Heartland Regional Emmy for influential News Segment
When Quanecia Fraser graduated in May of 2019 from Tarleton State University and delivered the commencement speech for her class, she explained that broadcast and journalism give people a voice.
Five years later, she would receive an Emmy Award for doing just that.
Starting as a freshman at Tarleton State in 2015, Fraser was not yet considering broadcasting as a career. After attending new student orientation and talking with faculty about the Texan News Service, a student-organized paper and news source, her interest was sparked.
Within the first few weeks of school, she found herself spending more and more time in the newsroom, and eventually, she was offered the opportunity to be an anchor for one of the news segments.
“I remember the experience; I thought it was so cool,” Fraser said. “I began to think this would
be a really cool thing to get into — TV news.”
She would soon become managing editor of the Texan News Service before later serving as the editor in chief of the newspaper. Her accomplishments would continue further as she served as an intern over the summer with CBS News in New York, where her team competed and won national recognition for their achievements.
“Tarleton will forever have such a special place in my heart because I received so many opportunities and met so many amazing people and learned so much,” said Fraser. “The university works to make students successful, and it was some of the best years of my life.”
A common theme throughout Fraser’s story is looking for any opportunity to learn, and it is with this teachable mindset that she went from being a reporter for KETV NewsWatch 7 in
Omaha after graduation to an evening news anchor in just three years.
It was in this position that Fraser, along with one of her colleagues, produced a news special called “Voices of Gen Z” as a way to provide space for young people to discuss difficult topics.
When the idea first came about, Fraser never anticipated that it would have the kind of impact that it did. As the young people began to speak about their experience with social and political culture, current events and mental health, she began to see how valuable it was to give them a voice.
“The teenagers were leaving the station and they came up to us and thanked us for letting them talk about this,” said Fraser. “You could tell that a lot of people hadn’t been listening to them about how they were feeling.”
Knowing that the segment had a powerful impact, they entered it into several competitions. Still, it was a surprise when they discovered it had been nominated for an Emmy Award in the Best Interview/Discussion category.
Fraser attended the award event honored to be nominated but left that
By Becca Johnson
night in awe, blown away that they had won.
After receiving the award, one of the first things Fraser did was share the news with several of her former professors from Tarleton State who had invested in her. “It was such a special night, and I don’t think I could have done it without them,” she said.
Fraser hopes to encourage others interested in broadcast and journalism to pursue their dreams, no matter how big.
“Be a sponge and look for every opportunity you can find to achieve your goals. Get internships. Be involved in your local student publication. Reach out to professionals you admire who are doing what you like to do and pick their brains, and don’t sell yourself short.”
Fraser addressed the Class of 2019 at commencement, reminding them not to forget their why.
“Make a positive impact on the world using your gifts, knowledge and experiences,” she said at the time.
This remains her motivation today as she champions the voices that may otherwise not be heard.
Leaders in the Making
From flying in a bush plane to using an outhouse to sleeping in a tent with wolves howling in the distance, a group of first-gen college students and their staff sponsor racked up many firsts on their Alaska study away trip last summer.
The 10-day expedition to the Arctic Village, Atigun Pass and Galbraith Lake — the result of a partnership between Tarleton State’s Lozano Long Division of Global, Community and First-gen Initiatives and Love is King’s Operation ROAM (Rapid Ongoing Advance Missions) — was meant to give students a rare experience in which to
Mercedez Concepción takes a break with a book. Students rediscovered low-tech modes of entertainment while out of cell phone range in the Arctic.
courtesy of Chad Brown.
First-gen Students Test Their Mettle in the Arctic Circle
By Elaine Hellmund
stretch their boundaries and hone leadership skills. Stretch and hone they did.
Sophomore Joshua Smith had never flown on an airplane before and found himself “kind of thrown off the deep end into a ninehour flight.” Then there was the ride in a bush plane. “Honestly, I was scared beforehand … but I loved it, actually. I found out I love flying,” he said.
For senior Aukira Burks, it was the first time traveling without her mom, and now she feels confident about taking a trip by herself.
“I’m really glad that I got to step outside my
comfort zone, and I grew and I learned,” Burks said.
Dr. Dana Fitzpatrick, Director for Civic and Community Connections for the Division of Global, Community and First-gen Initiatives, said she felt like she was witnessing the creation of leaders in real time.
“It was an immersive leadership experience, and you could see them evolve into it,” said Dr. Fitzpatrick, staff sponsor for the group. “A lot of times people talk
about leadership in theory, but I felt like this was leadership in practice. You could see natural leaders emerge in certain situations.”
For instance, Burks surprised herself by building a survival shelter alongside Smith with just two tools and some rope.
Junior Mercedez Concepción discovered an interest in natural medicine after foraging with an assistant guide
Photo
for a plant used to make medicinal herbal tea.
“We were able to go out and forage for Labrador tea, which is something that was so amazing, and that sparked an interest in me I didn’t realize I had. It really showed me that I want to learn more about natural medicine,” said Concepción.
The group was welcomed like family immediately upon arrival in the Arctic Village. That meant not only making themselves at home but pitching in and helping with everyday tasks. Dr. Fitzpatrick observed how uncomfortable they all were in the beginning and then how they managed that discomfort and moved beyond it.
“Living alongside the indigenous people as their guests, sometimes you don’t know what to say or how to behave,” she said, adding that watching the students respectfully ask questions, stare that discomfort in the face and move beyond it was
an example of how they grew and strengthened their skills.
Without running water in the Arctic Village, they discovered alternative ways to accomplish everyday things like cleaning dishes by hand and using an outhouse.
“Collectively as a group we tried to focus on growing through our discomfort,” said Dr. Fitzpatrick, adding that camping and not having modern amenities tested her comfort levels.
“It was my first time camping, my first time fly fishing and my first time sleeping in a tent,” said senior Ladavon SpringsHargrove. “I feel like
overall the experience was a success.”
On their first day in the Arctic Village, the group learned how to empty the community’s fish nets and then scale and clean the fish. Later, they dined on the smoked fish.
“My favorite part would be me gutting, like, seven or eight fish,” Burks said. “I learned about the anatomy of the fish, and I also learned about the food safety; for example, don’t burst the bladder when you’re gutting the fish because then it contaminates the edible parts of the fish. I’m an animal science major, and never have I learned about the
anatomy of a fish, … I haven’t even learned that in school.”
Students journaled and then compared notes in nightly conversations about their daily wins and challenges and how they could relate them to a job or group work situation in real life, said Dr. Fitzpatrick.
“When they had to figure out how to accomplish something without resources they normally would have access to, it took them being what I refer to as cognitively nimble,” she added. “Through that process, they remained committed to finding solutions without judgement.”
As the adventure neared its end, students and sponsor alike had adapted to the slower pace of life and the lack of cell service, finding joy in things like skipping rocks in glacier water, doing crossword puzzles and reading books. They had also experienced the love and dedication of the community for the land and environment they are so closely connected to.
Said Concepción: “It was truly such a humbling gift. I’m a wildlife major, so it’s something very near and dear to my heart — the fight for conservation of land and for our resources. I want to continue pushing myself out of my boundaries and comfort zones and exploring more.”
Smith echoed that sentiment.
“It was beautiful, especially to see that different perspective, that there are other ways to live, other ways to be, and to see how passionate they are about their home, their homeland,” he said.
“Anyone we talked to, you
Texans Around the World
Tarleton State students took their educational experience to 17 countries in 2024 as part of the study abroad opportunities available through the university.
In a variety of environments, students were able to meet people from different backgrounds while gaining valuable skills and knowledge that will benefit them in their future careers.
Each college at Tarleton participated, with over 60 courses being taught overall. In total, there were 19 faculty-led trips.
Of the more than 300 students who attended, an impressive 40% were first-gen students.
Some of the destinations over the past year included the United Kingdom, Honduras, the Czech Republic, Italy, Germany, Poland, Spain and more.
Each student who applied for a study abroad scholarship and committed to their program by Jan. 15 was awarded between $250 and $2,000. Over 75% percent of participants received a scholarship.
could tell they had a deep connection to that place, and they want to fight tooth and nail to try and save it.”
Dr. Fitzpatrick said immersive leadership experiences such as
this one are necessary to prepare students to be leaders in a global transnational workplace. That is part of the mission of the Lozano Long Division of Global, Community and First-gen Initiatives.
“Students need global experiences to be leaders in their respective fields. Helping them achieve that level of success is our true north,” she said. “These are versatile skills that transcend specific majors, making them valuable assets in various workplaces.”
Another excursion to the Arctic Circle is already being planned for July 2025 and will be an allveteran trip.
Above: Aukira Burks learned about fish anatomy while scaling and cleaning the day’s catch from community nets.
Below: Joshua Smith, Mercedez Concepción, Aukira Burks and Ladavon Springs-Hargrove experienced many firsts on their Alaskan expedition. Photo courtesy of Chad Brown.
From holding a cheer scholarship at Blinn College to becoming the leading scorer last season for Tarleton State’s women’s basketball team, Jakoriah Long’s path to Stephenville has been anything but conventional.
A part of a historymaking squad for the Texans in her first season, Long netted a team-high 20 points in a 54-41 win over Abilene Christian in the 2024 Western Athletic Conference Tournament, marking the first Division I postseason victory for the program.
It capped the first season that head coach Bill Brock and Long had worked together and not against each other.
“I was coaching at McLennan Community College in 2022-23,” Brock said. “We played against Blinn College, and she played extremely well against us. She hit some big shots and they beat us on our home court.”
It was an impression that stuck.
“Once you watch her play, the first thing that jumps out at you is her
athleticism, her speed, her quickness,” he said.
“She does things that lots of kids are not able to do because she is exceptionally talented.”
As a testament to her athleticism, Long originally transferred from Ranger College to Blinn to take advantage of a cheer scholarship. She would also walk on with the basketball team after competing in each sport all four years at Midway High School in Hewitt. Participating in both activities eventually led to a fork in the road that forced a decision.
As a testament to her athleticism, Long originally transferred from Ranger College to Blinn to take advantage of a cheer scholarship.
“After going through some missed opportunities that COVID kind of threw at the Class of 2020, I began looking at my second interest, basketball,” she said.
Her Blinn basketball team was set to begin conference play about the same time the cheer squad had qualified for nationals. She had to choose.
“I cried but left cheer to focus on basketball,” she said.
She then led Blinn to a berth in the National Junior College Athletic Association national tournament, where she earned honorable mention accolades for her performance. Once again, she caught the eye of Brock, who was there with his MCC team.
When he took over the Tarleton State program, one of his first recruiting targets was Long.
“As soon as I sat down in Coach Brock’s office, I knew that’s who I wanted to be my coach,” she said. “This was where I wanted to be. I knew he’d push me, and I needed that from my coach. He has goals, and I know it ends up being great. I want to be part of that.”
In their first season together, the Tarleton State point guard scored a team-best 11.2 points per game. She reached double figures 18 times and topped 20 twice. At the end of the campaign, she ranked in the top 20 among WAC scorers while adding 2.7 rebounds and 2.5 assists per contest.
Her experience at the Division I level bodes well for the Texans as they look to build on last year’s success.
“We’ll look to her for leadership, and she can provide that for us immediately,” Brock said. “With her having a year under her belt at this level, she knows what to expect night in and night out.
“She has such a great attitude. She wants to work hard. She has high aspirations. She brings a work ethic, positive attitude and her energy every day. Those things permeate throughout the team to the newcomers and the younger players on our team.”
Long, a senior criminal justice major, has not made any concrete career plans as she leaves her options open.
Texan Point Guard an i mportant Building Block
By Phil Riddle
“I’ve still not decided, but I’m leaning toward becoming a crime scene investigator,” she said. “Before that, though, I hope to go overseas as a pro and continue to play the sport that I love.”
Her coach doesn’t see that as a long shot.
“This will be just her third season concentrating solely on basketball,” he said, “and I don’t think we’ve seen the best of her yet.”
Jakoriah Long takes a free throw during a 54-41 win over Abilene Christian to open the 2024 WAC Tournament. Photos courtesy of Tarleton State Athletics.
A CHAMPIO
TEXANS UPSET THE FIELD TO CLAIM
Tarleton State’s baseball team was road weary as they boarded the plane to the Western Athletic Conference postseason tournament in Mesa, Ariz. They were tired, but they were determined.
Determined and destined for a historic run.
They’d been on the road for eight of their final nine regular season games and were the No. 5 seed as they prepared to take on Sacramento State in a do-or-die first-round battle.
“You could tell we were a little worn down,” said head coach Fuller Smith, who was in his first season leading the team. “We had traveled so much. It takes a toll on even 18-to 21-year-olds. We knew we needed to catch our second wind.”
And they did, knocking off Sacramento State 12-6, then coming from behind to top California Baptist 5-3 in a preview of the tournament finals. They then upended top overall seed Grand Canyon 4-2 and in-state
NSHIP RUN
WAC TOURNAMENT CROWN
rival and No. 2 seed Abilene Christian 11-1.
The win over ACU sent the Texans to the championship, setting up a chance to become the first team in NCAA history to win a postseason tournament while still reclassifying to Division I.
In the first game of the tournament finals, Tarleton dropped an 8-4 contest to CBU. Despite the loss, a sixinning stint by junior pitcher Tyler Olson saved the bullpen.
By Phil Riddle
“He hadn’t thrown more than three innings all season,” Smith said. “In a game we were losing, he kept going out there and pitching. By the sixth or seventh, we knew our chances were pretty slim to win, but he kept going out there and saved our bullpen.
“What he did on the mound that game helped us win the championship. If we’d have had to use multiple arms in that first game, I don’t know if we’d have gotten through it.”
Tarleton State's baseball team stands on the baseline during the national anthem before final day action of the 2024 WAC postseason tournament at Hohokam Park in Mesa, Ariz. Photo courtesy of Tarleton State Athletics.
Olson knew doing his job was important for the next game.
“It was a big moment,” he said. “I came to pitch, and I wanted to pitch. It felt good.”
Olson’s heroics set up the final game matchup that featured a two-run homer by sophomore outfielder Tyson Drake. The blast was part of a 17-hit barrage and a 9-1 Texan win.
“It was amazing,” said Drake, “I went through a rough patch and wasn’t even playing all the games before that. I was cheering for my brothers, and I was blessed with the opportunity to play in that game.”
Success at the tournament seemed a distant chance as the Texans limped through a losing streak just days before they headed for Mesa.
“We went through a stretch of eight or nine games — we lost most of them — but we still had to spend all that time on the bus over and over,” said Olson. “As much as you might get annoyed, you get closer. You don’t have a choice. It’s you and the guys next to you, sharing every meal with them, then eventually
realizing we’re running out of time to get to do this.”
Following the tough stretch, the Texans hammered UT Arlington pitching on the way to a 19-9 win on the last day of the regular season. The vicory would set the tone for what was ahead.
“We knew (the tournament) was going to be a tough sled,” Smith said. “We had to win the first game to stay in and then needed four wins after that. We knew we had to be good on the mound.
“The cool thing is these men on this team had been through so much. You could tell it was a really tight-knit group and they wanted to get it done, and you could tell it was a new experience for them. They weren’t satisfied just being there, they wanted to win it.”
Junior outfielder Trace Morrison played every game in the tournament and scored two runs in the championship tilt.
“As soon as we got on the field the first day, we got a taste of what we wanted,” he said. “We wanted to be there with our brothers. At the same time, you have to know that you’re all pulling on the same rope.”
The historic run through the tournament has raised expectations and the awareness of complacency for coaches and players.
“I know these guys won’t get complacent,” Smith said. “We were the fifth-best team in the league going into the tournament. We weren’t the best team, but we were the team that played the best at the end of the year.”
Impressive team chemistry played a key role.
“These guys were the closest group, and they played for one another, but there is still work to be done,” Smith added. “We’ve got 13 kids back from that team that experienced it. But they’re going to be with a bunch of new guys. Everybody will have a hand in winning, losing and helping each other get better.
“Iron sharpens iron. We’ve got a lot of guys who will push each other.”
Repeating the postseason run of a year ago is plenty of motivation.
“It’s obviously a goal. We want to go back to the WAC championship,” Olson said. “But this time, not as underdogs, but as favorites.”
The Texans celebrate following a 12-6 win over Sacramento State that started a memorable run at the 2024 WAC postseason tournament. Photo courtesy of Tarleton State Athletics.
CLASS NOTES
BY DECADE
Each of us can play an important role in the continued success of Tarleton State University. Remember, big accomplishments begin with small acts. The Tarleton Alumni Association encourages all former students and friends of the university to join in this tradition of promoting excellence.
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TERRY BRYANT, ’73 BS AGRICULTURE EDUCATION, was honored by the Odessa Chamber of Commerce as the Co-Entrepreneur of the Year. He is the co-owner of Jones Bros. Dirt and Paving Contractors.
JOHANNA HICKS, ’79 BS HOME ECONOMICS, was recognized by The Texas A&M Board of Regents with emeritus status as a family and community health agent in May 2024. Hicks retired from the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in 2023 after a 27-year career. Throughout her career, Hicks was recognized with numerous district, state, regional and national awards.
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JOHN KUHN, ’94 BA ENGLISH AND ’07 MED, has been named superintendent of schools for Abilene ISD. He has 27 years of experience in public education and previously served as superintendent for Mineral Wells ISD, a role he had held since 2016.
LONZO ANDERSON, ’94 BS CRIMINAL JUSTICE, has been named assistant city manager in San Marcos. Anderson’s 27 years of experience encompasses roles in strategic planning, resource management, data-driven
crime reduction strategies and community engagement. He oversees the city’s police and fire departments, neighborhood enhancement, the marshal’s office and emergency management.
BRANDON HOUSTON, ’96 BS EDUCATION, has been named assistant head coach and offensive coordinator at Howard Payne University. Houston previously was a longtime Texas high school football coach and athletic director.
CHAD STEVENS, ’96 BS EXERCISE AND SPORTS STUDIES, has been appointed CEO of TinkRworks, which provides a ready-to-teach, supplemental STEAM curriculum and project kits for K-8 educators. Stevens has established a distinguished career in education technology, most recently as the chief strategy and marketing officer at ParentSquare.
DONALD FULBRIGHT, ’01 BS EDUCATION AND SPORTS STUDIES, has stepped into the role of assistant chief of police for the Lewisville Police Department. Fulbright joins the LPD after 22 years with the Arlington Police Department, most recently overseeing fugitive apprehension and tactical operations.
GBOLAHAN FADEYI, ’01 MCJ, has retired after 30 years with the Waco Police Department. Fadeyi, born in Lagos, Nigeria, came to the U.S. after high school to pursue higher education. He served in the U.S. Army, stationed at Fort Hood (now Fort Cavazos), and was deployed to Southwest Asia during the Gulf War. He was honorably discharged from the Army in 1993, having earned decorations including the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Kuwait Liberation Medal and others.
PHILIP O’NEAL, ’05 MED, has joined GoVision as a senior advisor to help guide the company’s entry into the Texas high school marketplace. O’Neal’s career in education spans nearly four decades, initially as a teacher and coach, and later as athletic director. During that time, he supported 34 teams making state tournament appearances, nine of which won the state championship. He was inducted into the Texas High School Athletic Directors Association Class of 2024 Hall of Honor and was named its 2024 Athletic Director of the Year.
MELISSA BOYLE, ’06 BS INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES, has been named vice president of administrative services at Hill College. Boyle comes to Hill College from the First United Methodist Church in
Duncanville where she served as the director of finance. Additionally, she has served as the director of finance for several municipalities, including Grandview, Corsicana and Hillsboro.
KYLE HATCHER, ’07 BS EXERCISE AND SPORTS STUDIES, has been chosen as principal of Bridgeport High School. He previously served as principal of Bridgeport Intermediate School, a role he held starting in 2020, and was the assistant principal for three years prior to leading the campus.
JOSH ASHLEY, ’08 BS EXERCISE AND SPORTS STUDIES, has been named assistant coach of the Louisiana Tech women’s basketball team. Ashley brings more than 12 years of coaching experience to the staff for the Lady Techsters, including the last seven as assistant coach and recruiting coordinator at North Alabama.
JEFF HADDOX, ’09 MBA, has been appointed chief technology officer for Omni Retail Enterprises. He will oversee all digital selling channels, enterprise project planning, infrastructure and data analytics for Omni’s brands. Haddox most recently served as chief digital officer at RuffleButts, a children’s clothing digital storefront, and was previously senior vice president of digital experience and analytics at Academic Partnerships, which helps regional public
universities and small colleges grow their online programs.
10
NATE BURAL, ’10 BS COMMUNICATION STUDIES, was named Tarleton State University’s Assistant Vice President of Marketing and Communications. He previously held the role of Senior Associate Athletic Director in the school’s athletic department.
NOLAN LANHAM, ’12 BS KINESIOLOGY AND EXERCISE SCIENCE, has been named head football coach for Snook ISD. Lanham has been the offensive coordinator for the last two seasons at Nocona, winning the first district championship in 11 years. Prior to his stint with Nocona, he was head coach at Liberty, Jarrell and Hamilton.
COURTNEY BAKER, ’12 BS ACCOUNTING, was promoted to controller for SWK Holdings Corporation. Baker initially joined the company as assistant controller in July 2023. Before SWK, she worked for a leading government services contractor in the defense and aerospace industry, specializing in revenue recognition.
KRISTI WEBB, ’16 BBA, has been named executive director of Waco’s Cameron
Park Zoological and Botanical Society. Webb began as a marketing assistant in 2009 and was then promoted to serve as the membership and rentals manager. She stepped into the role of interim director in April 2023 and served in that capacity until being named executive director.
BAILEY RAE KAFKA, ’19 BS COMMUNICATION STUDIES, was awarded the Honorary State FFA Degree at the Oklahoma State FFA Convention in May. The honorary degree is presented to those who have rendered outstanding service in support of agriculture, agriculture education, and FFA and 4-H students. Kafka, Woodward County’s Event Center director, was hired in 2019 as the part-time director of marketing and communications for the Event Center.
JACOB NOCKTONICK, ’19 BS AGRIBUSINESS, has been named head boys’ basketball coach at Saint Jo High School. He comes to SJHS after spending two years at Bland as an assistant coach.
NICHOLAS HOLBROOK, ’21 MCJ, has been named chief of police at Odessa College. Prior to becoming an officer at the college 10 years ago, Holbrook was a police officer for Colorado City.
