A Sense of Belonging
President Kelly Damphousse reflects on his one-year anniversary at TXST and the achievements to come
I was recently asked to summarize my first year as President of Texas State University with just one word. My answer: “Belonging.”
It started when I spotted “You Belong Here” written on a window near Old Main. I was walking around campus the night before taking office in July 2022, contemplating the big job and road ahead.
The message brought a smile to my face that night, and it has played out repeatedly since. I see it and feel it in countless interactions with students, faculty, and staff every day. Our sense of community and warm, welcoming atmosphere at Texas State is second to none. We strive to show everyone who steps foot on our campuses: you belong.
This edition of TXST’s Hillviews magazine captures stories of students, alumni, and researchers who have made their mark on the world. From alumni thriving in Broadway plays and archaeological digs, to staff leading student success programs and adventurous trips, to faculty exploring the genetics of diseases, we’re so fortunate that these innovators belong to our TXST family.
A year has passed since I came upon that “belonging” reminder on campus. In that time, we have achieved so much in our pursuit of Hopes & Aspirations High, a bold vision for TXST’s future. In a recent episode of “The Current,” my wife Beth joined me to reminisce on our first year at Texas State and memories that we’ll always treasure.
Looking forward to the new academic year ahead, I am energized by the possibilities. Our goals are ambitious but within reach, because of the expertise and compassion of our faculty and staff, and the support of passionate alumni and partners.
PS: I was deeply moved by the happy anniversary messages I received from the Bobcat community at the end of my first year. Here’s to many more. We are just getting started!
Sincerely,
Kelly Damphousse
President