State of the university: Hurley shares Tarleton’s path of progress

BY KELLAN BYARS

Multimedia Journalisti

Growth was the word of the day as Dr. James Hurley delivered Tarleton’s 2025 State of the University address. With enrollment at an all-time high and new academic programs on the horizon, Hurley emphasized that Tarleton is on the rise.  

“There has never been a better time to be at Tarleton State, and many of the best and brightest students throughout Texas are taking note,” Hurley said.  

Hurley expressed great excitement about the university’s continued growth. Enrollment at Tarleton this year broke 21,000 and has been growing for the past six years. He also pointed out that graduation and retention rates have been on the rise. Students at Tarleton come from 222 Texas counties, 48 states and 38 countries.  

Over the past few years, Tarleton has added dozens of new academic programs and introduced its eighth college, the College of Leadership and Military Studies, reflecting the university’s roots in service and leadership.  

Hurley also highlighted Tarleton’s advancement to a Level VI classification — the highest accreditation status awarded by SACSCOC — allowing expansion of its doctoral offerings.  

Research investment has climbed to nearly $25 million, marking an 89% increase since 2019, and recent grants from the National Science Foundation and National Institutes of Health are fueling continued innovation.  

With the opening of the new $80 million Health Professions Building and continued support for the proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine, Tarleton’s commitment to academic excellence and health education remains at the forefront of its mission.  

“Our unprecedented growth has been defined by record enrollment, new market-responsive academic programs and strategic expansion of our physical footprint,” Hurley said.  

He also emphasized the growth of Tarleton’s physical campus, noting several major projects that will shape the university’s future. A new five-story residence hall is set to begin construction this summer, expanding housing options for the university’s record-breaking enrollment.  

Tarleton’s new EECU Center will soon serve as a home for NCAA Division I basketball and large-scale campus events, further strengthening the university’s athletic and community presence.  

Additionally, the recently completed Research and Economic Development Building opened in 2024, providing state-of-the-art facilities for research collaboration and innovation.  

Hurley explained that these developments align with Tarleton’s Vision 2030 plan, which focuses on modern facilities, student engagement and partnerships that drive both academic and regional growth.  

Throughout his address, Hurley emphasized that Tarleton’s expansion is rooted in student success. He discussed new initiatives designed to improve retention, affordability and well-being, including expanded scholarship opportunities and a renewed focus on academic support.  

Tarleton’s participation in national programs focused on equity and student achievement reflects its commitment to helping all students thrive. The university has also taken steps to enhance mental health resources through campuswide wellness initiatives and integrated student support systems.  

Faculty development continues to be a priority, with Tarleton investing in research opportunities and innovation across departments.  

“Every decision we make begins and ends with our students in mind,” Hurley said.  

Hurley closed his address with an optimistic message about the road ahead. He described Tarleton as a university on the rise – one defined by innovation, unity and resilience. Under his leadership, Tarleton continues to evolve as a forward-thinking institution positioned to lead within Texas higher education.  

His remarks centered on the university’s “Texan Made” identity, celebrating both its small-town roots and its expanding influence across the state. As he looked toward the future, Hurley left the audience with a final message of confidence and pride:  

“The best days of Tarleton are not behind us, they’re right in front of us.”