A Message from President Damphousse

Dear Friends:

I have been thinking so much about you all in light of the crisis in Israel and Gaza, and I am writing to check in on you. Like many members of our TXST community, I have been processing the horrific terror attacks and the ensuing war in Israel and Gaza. I have heard painful stories from colleagues and students who have family and friends directly impacted by the unthinkable violence. My heart goes out to them. 

I know many of you feel angry, fearful, and helpless in the face of this tragedy. While these recent events affect each of us differently, we are united by our Bobcat values to support one another with empathy and respect.

First and foremost, I want you to know our leadership team continues to monitor the situation closely, and we remain vigilant about the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff. We are also engaging directly to support the TXST international students from the region who are on our campuses.

TXST is a place where we deeply value belonging, compassion, and kindness. During this time, as always, we will focus on ensuring our campuses are safe and supportive places where all Bobcats can learn and talk about the issues that matter to them. 

Together, let us commit to engage in constructive conversations, and to educate ourselves about the complex issues and unfolding events in the region. Please remember to think critically about the information you find online. As informed citizens, we must check multiple reliable news sources to truly understand what is happening.

Over the coming days, I will continue to connect with members of our university community who reach out to me to discuss their thoughts, concerns, feelings, and opinions about the terror attacks and the war.

Understandably, the crisis in Israel and Gaza may induce feelings of anxiety and distress. I encourage our TXST community to access university resources to help navigate these challenging times. 

• Students can contact the TXST Counseling Center or utilize the Timely Care app for mental health support and resources. Students who need support or have questions can also reach out to the Dean of Students Office by emailing dosoffice@txstate.edu or calling (512) 245-2124. International students can also contact International Student and Scholars Services for assistance by emailing international@txstate.edu or by calling (512) 245-7966.  
• Faculty and staff members can continue to access Bobcat Balance, the official Employee Assistance Program, by going to the website or calling 1-888-228-9831. 

While UPD continues to engage in many ways to keep us all safe, I always encourage TXST students to take advantage of opportunities like the new Student Safety Escort Program, which is a partnership between UPD and our TXST Student Government. Employees and students may also consider using Nite Cats for any late-night transportation around campus.

I understand that no words can truly provide comfort to those who are suffering. I hope all Bobcats can take some solace in knowing the university is here to offer support, resources, and the space to grieve and eventually move toward healing when the time is right. Let us continue to check in on one another, and to offer kindness and compassion as we move through the weeks ahead.

Take care of each other, Bobcats.

Sincerely,

Kelly Damphousse, Ph.D.

President