Top Ten Moments: July 2023

Cat Camp Kickoff for New Bobcats

Dr. Damphousse takes a selfie with a group of Bobcat Camp attendees.
I delighted in welcoming the first session of TXST’s Cat Camp, the three-day student-run orientation geared toward helping incoming students with their transition into the Bobcat community.

Kicking It With TXST Cru Leaders

President Damphousse poses with a group of student leaders from the inter-denominational Christian ministry, Cru.
My utmost thanks to the student leaders from Inter-denominational Christian ministry Cru for meeting with me in July. Save me a spot for your annual pancake breakfast during move-in week next month.

Legislative Wrap-Up

Photo of TXST Senior Leadership at San Marcos Chamber of Commerce
My senior leadership team joined the Texas Legislative Wrap-Up luncheon hosted by the San Marcos Chamber of Commerce, featuring remarks by State Senator Judith Zaffirini and Rep. Erin Zwiener.

Round Rock Vice President Named

TXST Round Rock Campus' vice president Dr. Julie Lessiter and a shot of the Round Rock Campus.
Our TXST Round Rock campus has its very first vice president! Please join me in welcoming Dr. Julie Lessiter to our leadership team. Many thanks to all who aided in the search, and special thanks to Dr. Janet Bezner who served as Interim VP.

New 24/7 Mental Health Services

An individual receiving mental health services online talks with a counselor via their computer monitor.
There’s nothing more important than the mental health of our Bobcats. That’s why I’m pleased to announce that TXST is now offering 24/7 virtual health & well-being resources. Help when and where our students need it!

Visited New Student Orientation

President Damphousse with 2 NSO students
TXST welcomes nearly 12,000 freshmen each year. Our New Student Orientation staff members work tirelessly to help our newest Bobcats get acquainted with all the resources the university has to offer. Thank you for all that you do!

Research Partnerships Abroad

President Damphousse and Beth Damphousse with TSUS Chancellor McCall meeting with dignitaries in Madrid
Beth and I enjoyed meeting with dignitaries in Madrid, as we explored creating opportunities for faculty and students to study abroad and to perform research at the national art archives. We are expanding TXST’s global reach.

Study Abroad Adventure

Dr. Damphousse with TXST students at Parque Cinegético de El Hosquillo, a natural wildlife reserve in the mountains near Cuenca.
When work was done in Madrid, we traveled to Cuenca, a beautiful medieval city, to join TXST students studying Spanish. We visited the Sagrada Familia Basilica with another group of students studying government.

Named Distinguished Alumni

Dr. Damphousse graduating from college standing alongside Beth.
My wife Beth and I met as students at Sam Houston State University, a sister institution to TXST in The Texas State University System. We graduated in 1987 and tied the knot in 1988. Our love story begins with me finding her at SHSU. Beth and I were honored to be named Distinguished Alumni by our alma mater.

Coffee With Kelly

President Damphousse chats with staff
Special thanks to all the TXST staff members who took time to share their thoughts and feedback with me over coffee. Hosting these informal discussions is one of my favorite ways to exchange ideas and updates with our dedicated staff.

Bonus: First Anniversary Well Wishes

I was deeply moved by the happy anniversary messages I received from the Bobcat community to celebrate my first year as TXST president. With video messages from Willow Hall to the LBJ Student Center and up at the Round Rock Campus, I felt the love at the end of my first year. Here’s to many more. We are just getting started!