GREETING FROM DR. ROSS C. ALEXANDER PRESIDENT AND CEO
Dear Eagle Community,
Thank you for your support of Texas A&M University-Texarkana! We hope you enjoy the freshened and revamped format of our magazine that highlights some of the great work being accomplished by our talented students, faculty members, staff members, alumni, and supporters.
We have been fortunate to build a significant amount of momentum in a very short time as a university, and we are only getting started. However, none of that success can be accomplished without YOU and YOUR support. You allow us to think big, dream big, and do big—so THANK YOU!
From record enrollment, fundraising records, new facilities to new athletics programs, nearly 100 new community partnerships, and several dozen new degree programs, it is an incredibly exciting time to be part of A&M-Texarkana. As an ascendant university, our hallmarks will be community engagement, workforce alignment, an emphasis on local students and talent, and an expectation of excellence. It is our goal to be a source of pride for this amazing community and growing region.
My beautiful wife Lilia and our children Victoria, Madelaine, and Ross, Jr. thank you for your commitment and support. We are honored to be part of this remarkable university. Thank you and Soar Eagles!!!
TRANSFORMING A&M-TEXARKANA:
A
VISION OF INNOVATION AND GROWTH
From the moment Dr. Ross Alexander stepped onto the A&M-Texarkana campus it was clear that he had a vision. A vision of growth. A vision of new academic programs. A vision of expanded athletics. And a vision of a university working in harmony with its community to have a positive impact in every way possible. After his first year and a half as president, his vision is rapidly becoming a reality.
One of his first priorities was to get the community involved and extend academic partnerships to school districts, private companies, non-profit agencies, and other organizations. Under the terms of the partnership agreements, the employees of the University’s academic partners receive tuition discounts as well as their first class free, applicable towards all certificate, undergraduate, and graduate programs. The first partnerships were signed in the Fall 2023 semester and had an immediate effect. Thanks in part to the new
partnerships, the University saw record enrollment for the semester beginning in January 2024.
The impact of the partnerships, coupled with new scholarship programs designed to attract talented local students, has pushed the enrollment at A&M-Texarkana to new heights each semester. The semester beginning in January 2025 saw a 13% increase in enrollment and marked the 4th consecutive term of record enrollment for the University, breaking every enrollment record in the process.
Dr. Alexander has stated a short-term goal of 3,000 students and a long-term goal of reaching 5,000 students at Texas A&M University-Texarkana. While many of these students may take courses online, one of his goals is to increase the number of students living on campus. To make that happen, Dr. Alexander has launched an innovative new housing initiative called Eagle Landing. Phases one and two of Eagle landing
should be ready for students by Fall 2025 and consist of modular housing units arranged in a living-learning community on the south end of campus. Offering both more privacy and more autonomy, these units will appeal to students who want to be on campus while avoiding the hustle and bustle of a traditional dorm. “We’ve got to get more students on campus,” said Alexander. “There is plenty of data that shows students who live on campus are more involved, are less likely to leave the University, and graduate at a higher rate.”
Another part of Dr. Alexander’s growth strategy for the University includes expanding the number of athletic teams on campus. The 2024-25 academic year saw the addition of competitive cheer, competitive dance, beach volleyball, and esports to the intercollegiate sports lineup. The expansion will continue in 202526 with men’s and women’s bowling, and men’s and women’s golf joining the department, along with an expanded track and field roster to complement the University’s successful cross country teams.
“I’m very proud of how much momentum we have established in a relatively short period of time. We have become a priority and an innovator in The A&M-System, and we have established ourselves as a university of first choice for learners throughout a career and across a lifetime.”
DR. ROSS C. ALEXANDER
TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-TEXARKANA PRESIDENT AND CEO
In addition to expanding the number of teams competing at A&M-Texarkana, one of Alexander’s first priorities was the development of a new athletic complex that would serve as the home venue for tennis, baseball, and softball, as well as support all athletics through a sports performance center that will be constructed on the site. Dr. Alexander immediately set about raising funds for the new project and quickly put the University in a position to move forward with the project. A number of community partners, led by the named sponsor Red
(Left to right) A&M-Texarkana President Dr. Ross Alexander visits with Cary Patterson of Texarkana and Texas A&M University System Chancellor John Sharp following the President’s Investiture Ceremony on March 7, 2024. The ceremony was held in the Lois and Cary Patterson Student Center on the A&M-Texarkana campus.
River Credit Union, significantly supported the project through donations and naming opportunities. In February 2025, a groundbreaking ceremony was held for the new RRCU Athletic Complex. Additionally, steps are underway to transition to NCAA Division II athletics.
In addition to the RRCU Athletic Complex, the Judy Kelley Morgan Soccer Field was renovated with an amphitheater and extra seating. Under Dr. Alexander’s leadership, the University has shattered all previous fundraising records in support of both athletic and academic programs. In November 2024, the University announced the naming of its first academic building and academic division with the establishment of the James C. Morriss Business, Engineering, and Technology Building as well as the James C. Morris Division of Engineering. “We have broken every possible fundraising record,” Alexander said. “We are receiving gifts and commitments at unprecedented levels from a wider donor base and a wider scope of donors who are excited about the momentum of the University.”
The University is dedicated to driving economic development by working with community partners to align new degree programs with regional job demands. A&M-Texarkana is set to introduce a significant number of academic programs over the next 6-24 months, all tailored to local workforce needs.
INVESTING IN TOMORROW’S LEADERS
Texas A&M University-Texarkana is currently in a period of unprecedented enrollment growth. Fueled by a combination of new and revised academic scholarships along with community partnerships, the University has set enrollment records for four consecutive terms, covering Spring 2024 (5% increase), Summer 2024 (22% increase), Fall 2024 (15% increase) and Spring 2025 (13% increase.)
In Fall 2023, the University unveiled new scholarships specifically for seniors graduating from any high school within 100 miles of Texarkana, regardless of their home state. These Eagle Elite scholarships are $3000 yearly and renewable for four years. Recipients who qualify for and join the Honors College will receive an additional $1000 per year. Initial requirements for the Eagle Elite scholarships are to be a 2024 graduate of any high school within 100 miles of the University, have a minimum 3.0 high school GPA, and enroll fulltime each semester at A&M-Texarkana.
“Our Eagle Elite scholarships are designed to help keep talented students in the area,” President Alexander explained. “When combined with our already low rate
“Our Eagle Elite scholarships are designed to help keep talented students in the area. When combined with our already low rate of tuition, these scholarships present tremendous value to students.
DR. ROSS C. ALEXANDER
TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-TEXARKANA PRESIDENT AND CEO
of tuition, these scholarships present tremendous value to students. They can earn a world-class A&MTexarkana degree in highly regarded degree programs, and do so without falling heavily into debt.”
The new Eagle Elite scholarships are just part of a wide variety of merit-based scholarships available to incoming freshman. The University also offers a Presidential Scholarship ($9000 yearly), Valedictorian/ Salutatorian Scholarship ($8000 yearly), the Soaring Eagle Scholarship ($6000 yearly), and the Ascending Eagle Scholarship ($2000 yearly).
For transfer students coming from Texarkana College, University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana, UA-Cossatot, Tyler Junior College, or other partner community colleges within 125 miles, the University offers the new Golden Eagle Partner Transfer Scholarship. The scholarship is in the amount of $3000 per year for students with a minimum college GPA of 2.75, and $4000 yearly for those who join the A&M-Texarkana Honors College (minimum 3.25 college GPA required). The University has also recently added specific scholarships available for adult learners, graduate students, college transfers, alumni, and a new Legacy Scholarship for dependents of A&M-Texarkana alumni.
SHATTERING RECORDS
NEW STUDENTS WITHIN 100 MILES OF TEXARKANA
NEW STUDENTS FROM MILLER COUNTY, ARKANSAS
MILITARY-AFFILIATED STUDENTS
NEW STUDENTS FROM BOWIE COUNTY, TEXAS
STUDENTS LIVING ON CAMPUS
NEW STUDENTS ACROSS ALL ACADEMIC LEVELS
24 / 25 NEW FRESHMEN COMPARED TO FALL 2023 SEMESTER
STUDENTS GRADUATING IN THE TOP 10% OF THEIR CLASS RECORD
LARGEST FRESHMAN CLASS EVER
HIGHEST NUMBER OF VALEDICTORIANS 24 / 25
STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY TIES
As a regional university, one of the primary duties of Texas A&M University-Texarkana is to first serve the people in the area we call home. A&M-Texarkana strives to be the first-choice institution of higher education for those within 100 miles of campus and provide our community members with educational opportunities throughout their lifetime and career.
In 2023, the University began establishing educational partnerships with local school districts, municipalities, businesses, hospitals, and non-profit organizations that provide their employees with opportunities to further their education at reduced costs.
Under the terms of the academic partnership agreements, all full-time employees of partner organizations will receive a tuition discount on all undergraduate, graduate, certificate, or microcredential programs delivered in-person, online, or through a hybrid format. The agreement also waives the standard application fee. In addition to the tuition discount, any eligible employee who is a new student at the University will receive the First Flight Scholarship, which gives the new student their first class free if they are enrolled in at least six hours at the undergraduate or graduate level.
The idea of university partnerships has been very well received by the leadership of area organizations. “We are looking towards the collaboration with TAMUT to develop the core of graduates that Texarkana Aluminum needs to build an ecosystem in aluminum product manufacturing in the region,” said Ian Smith, Chief Operating Officer at Texarkana Aluminum.
“BWI Companies, INC. is pleased and excited to partner with A&M-Texarkana to offer BWI team members an opportunity to receive scholarship and tuition assistance for programs at A&M-Texarkana,” said BWI Companies, Inc. President and CEO Jim Bunch. “We feel this is a huge benefit to BWI team members, A&MTexarkana, and our community…a win-win-win!”
Employees wishing to take advantage of the new partnership must meet the admissions standards of the program to which they apply and must remain in good academic standing.
To date, the University has formed partnerships with more than 85 organizations, with numerous partnerships in the development stage as well.
For additional information about A&M-Texarkana’s academic partnerships, please visit the University website at tamut.edu/partnerships or contact Vicki Melde at vmelde@tamut.edu
ACADEMIC GROWTH BRINGING HIGH-DEMAND DEGREES TO EAST TEXAS AND BEYOND
While there are a number of physical changes in the works for the campus, and the athletic department is poised to grow rapidly, we can’t ever lose sight of our primary mission. As an institution of higher learning, it is our goal to be a first-choice university for talented students of all ages by offering them exceptional academic programming at all levels across multiple modalities. From micro-credentials to doctoral degrees, we strive to offer a world-class education in fields that are in high demand.
To that end, Texas A&M University-Texarkana has worked with community partners, area employers, and industry leaders to determine which types of degrees are most needed throughout East Texas and beyond. The University now has a significant number of new degree programs in varying stages of development.
The addition of these highly-sought after degree programs will allow the University to keep more of the region’s talented students in the area for their education, and prepare them to be ready to work from day one, locally, in high-paying career fields upon graduation.
“The addition of new programs is tangible evidence of progress and growth at Texas A&M University-Texarkana. Designed with local workforce needs in mind, our new programs will elevate the community by preparing students for successful careers in the modern workforce. In addition, these programs will undoubtedly bring more students to both the University and the region.”
DR. JIM WORTHEN TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-TEXARKANA INTERIM PROVOST AND SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS
APPROVED PROGRAMS
• MEd degree with a major in Special Education
• MEd degree with a major in Teaching
Certificate Programs:
• Computer Aided Design
• Pulp and Paper Technology
PROGRAMS AWAITING APPROVAL
The following programs have been approved by the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and will now be submitted for approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges:
• BS degree with a major in Civil Engineering
• BS degree with a major in Computer Engineering
The following programs have been approved by the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents and are awaiting approval from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board:
• MBA degree with a major in Quantitative Finance
• MBA degree with a major in Supply Chain Management
• MHA degree with a major in Healthcare Administration
• MS degree with a major in Engineering Management
• DNP degree with a major in Nursing Practice
• DPT degree with a major in Physical Therapy
PROGRAMS IN DEVELOPMENT
Undergraduate Degrees:
• BS degree with a major in Chemical Engineering
• BS degree with a major in Communication Sciences and Disorders
• BS degree with a major in Health Science
• BS degree with a major in Interdisciplinary Studies
• BS degree with a major in Medical Imaging
• BS degree with a major in Medical Laboratory Science
• BS degree with a major in Occupational Therapy
• BS degree with a major in Respiratory Therapy
Graduate Degrees:
• MPA degree with a major in Public Administration
• MS degree with a major in Business and Data Analytics
• MS degree with a major in Industrial Engineering
• MS degree with a major in Adapted Physical Activity
• MS degree with a major in Speech Language Pathology
Certificate Programs:
• Applied Behavior Analysis
• CNC for Manufacturing
• Manufacturing
• Marriage and Family Therapy
• Mechanical CAD
RECORD FUNDRAISING
JAMES C. MORRISS BUSINESS, ENGINEERING, AND TECHNOLOGY BUILDING
In July 2024 the University began construction of its stateof-the-art Business, Engineering, and Technology building. Funded by the 87th Texas Legislature in 2021, the $45 million-dollar academic building will house the University’s growing programs in business, technology, and engineering.
The new three-story building will be just over 50,000 square feet in size and will be situated on the southwest side of the University campus. The new building will connect to the existing Science and Technology Building via walkways on the second and third floors.
The building, designed to support growing demand for degrees in business and technology-related fields, will house the Center for Financial Literacy and Investment, numerous laboratories for mechanical engineering and design, and will include a 225-seat lecture hall/auditorium to support large lectures and other events. In addition to the new building, the project also provides updates to existing spaces in the current Science and Technology Building, most notably the laboratories used by the electrical engineering program.
The naming of the James C. Morriss Business, Engineering, and Technology Building was made possible by a donation from Cynthia Goerke, daughter of James C. Morriss. The naming of the James C. Morriss Division of Engineering was made possible by a gift from Jim and Cindy Morriss, son and daughter-in-law of Mr. Morriss.
“We express our deepest gratitude to the state legislature— particularly Representative Gary VanDeaver and Senator Bryan Hughes for the funding to make this transformational facility possible. We also thank Chancellor Sharp and the A&M System Board of Regents for their unwavering support of Texas A&M University-Texarkana,” said A&M-Texarkana President Dr. Ross Alexander. “Their support reflects the ascendancy, growth, and momentum of this great university.”
A groundbreaking event featuring elected officials, University partners, Texas A&M University System administrators, faculty, and staff was held on May 30, 2024, to officially kick off the construction project. The building is expected to be completed in time for the Fall 2026 semester.
NEW HOME BASE
RRCU ATHLETIC COMPLEX CHANGES THE GAME
Sometimes we all need a home field advantage. A place of familiarity. A place with tradition, history, and a sense of belonging. A place where everyone is on your side, and everything just feels right. This is especially true in the life of an athlete. Home is more than just a place to hang your helmet. It’s where everything comes together. But for members of the A&M-Texarkana baseball, softball, and tennis teams there has never been much of a home field advantage. While other athletic teams have been able to host their competitions on campus, these Eagles have had to nest elsewhere. The baseball and softball teams compete at George Dobson Field and Bramlett Field in Spring Lake Park under agreements with the City of Texarkana. The Eagles men’s and women’s tennis teams call the tennis facilities at Texarkana College home. But that’s all about to change in a big way.
Last year, officials from Texas A&M UniversityTexarkana and Red River Credit Union gathered to unveil the details of the new RRCU Athletic Complex to be constructed on the A&M-Texarkana campus near Bringle Lake.
The A&M-Texarkana athletic department is poised to undergo a significant expansion in the near future. Competitive cheer and dance joined the athletic program
The new facility will feature baseball and softball fields, tennis courts, a hospitality suite, a food court, a ticket booth, and a sports performance center.
Dr. Ross Alexander, A&M-Texarkana President, speaks to the crowd at the February 20, 2025, groundbreaking celebration for the Red River Credit Union Athletic Complex. The event was well attended and featured speakers from the University, RRCU, and John Sharp, Chancellor of the Texas A&M University System.
in the fall of 2024 along with coed varsity esports and beach volleyball, bringing the total number of athletic teams to 17. The Fall 2025 semester will bring the addition of men’s and women’s golf and bowling, bringing the total sports offered to 21. In addition, the cross country / track and field teams will be greatly expanded with more track and field athletes participating than in previous years.
The complex will be located on newly acquired property along University Avenue. The location will allow for excellent visibility and ease of access for both the local and University communities.
A groundbreaking ceremony took place in spring 2025. Individual sponsorships and naming opportunities are still available.
In August 2024, Ryan Wall was named the University’s Athletic Director. Wall previously served as the Eagles men’s basketball coach for five years before taking over the role of Athletic Director.
RYAN WALL ATHLETIC DIRECTOR
MEET FIRST LADY
LILIA ALEXANDER
BALANCING FAMILY, CAREER, AND HIGHER EDUCATION
For many who work in the academic world, August is their January. It’s the start of the new academic year. A time of renewed energy, of new goals, expectations, and the excitement of a university campus roaring fully back to life. It can also be a time of change, as those working in education often begin new roles or sometimes change institutions entirely. It’s as good a time as any, one would think, for a new university president to take on the job. For the Alexander family this involved moving to Texas during a brutal heat wave with two young daughters and an infant son.
When Dr. Ross Alexander was appointed as the 5th President of Texas A&M University-Texarkana, his wife Lilia knew that he wasn’t the only one with a new role. It wasn’t just Ross’ assignment. They were now the first family…Ross, Lilia, Victoria, Madelaine, and Ross Jr. Mid way through their second year at A&M-Texarkana, Lilia reports that all is well and says that the overwhelmingly positive reception given to their family played an integral role in their success.
FUN FACTS
Provided by the President
Lilia was born in Sofia, Bulgaria to a family who knew the importance and value of higher education. Her father earned a master’s degree and had a successful business importing large industrial equipment. Her mother completed her degree as well and worked at a bank prior to joining the family business. Her sister is an international lawyer who lives and works in Paris. “There was never any doubt that I was going to college,” Lilia said. “It was always just expected, and you weren’t going to go for just one degree. You were going to go as long as you could.” Her desire to attend college in the U.S. had a lot to do with her father, she added.
She speaks five (5) languages—fluent in English, Bulgarian, and Russian; conversational in Spanish and Macedonian.
She was a standout tennis player in college, playing #1 singles and doubles at the University of North Georgia.
She is REALLY competitive and good at everything— sports, cards, games, whatever.
She’s a very good singer.
“My father was an engineer who later in life became a successful businessman. He spoke five languages and was fascinated with the United States. He had a dream to one day immigrate to America. He passed away suddenly in 2006, when I was only a sophomore in college, which was a major hurdle I had to overcome.”
LILIA ALEXANDER
TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-TEXARKANA FIRST LADY
FUN FACTS
Provided by the President
College is free in much of Europe, but Lilia knew that she wanted to attend college in the United States and that she would need a scholarship. An accomplished tennis player, Lilia knew early on that tennis was likely her best way to an education in the U.S. For her last 6 or 7 years in Bulgaria, she worked and trained hard to give herself a better chance. When it was time, she and two other tennis players sent video tapes to several universities in the U.S. While there were options, Clayton State in Georgia was the only one to offer a full scholarship to all three. Their ticket was punched.
Lilia would transfer to play tennis at the University of North Georgia for her last three years, where she graduated with a degree in Political Science. She stayed on at North Georgia for two additional years as a graduate assistant for the tennis team and earned her master’s degree in public administration. After completing her graduate degree, Lilia had a visa that allowed her to work for a year. She began working for the University of North Georgia at the university’s Center for Regional Engagement when she met and began dating Ross, who was also employed at the university. Lilia began working on her Ph.D. in Higher Education Policy at Northern Illinois University, which for the time being meant a long-distance relationship. But shortly thereafter Ross accepted a job at Indiana UniversityEast, and Lilia transferred there the following year. The rest, as they say, is history.
She came to the U.S. in 2005 and became an American citizen in 2016.
She’s an excellent baker—cupcakes, cakes, etc...
She has a great sense of humor.
She works as a full-time Visiting Lecturer of Political Science at Indiana University East (100% remote, online), where she has taught full or part-time for the past 12 years.
Lilia is currently working on her dissertation, which is focused on transfer policies at the state level and how they affect universities. Prior to Ross’ appointment at A&M-Texarkana she had accepted a full-time online teaching position at Indiana-East, where she teaches Political Science, Senior Seminar in Political Science, Public Administration, Public Policy, and Women in American Politics. She says that she decided in graduate school that she wanted to teach at the university level. “I absolutely love to teach,” she said. “I love the interaction with the students. I not only get to watch them progress through a class, but throughout the program as they graduate. Many of them go on to graduate school, and I get to write letters of recommendation for them.”
She also feels a special connection with international students, having gone through the same process herself. She and Ross host an annual welcome breakfast for the international students. “I just get so excited for them,” she said. “I’m excited for the opportunities this university is able to give them and for the future they will have.”
Lilia says that having a background in higher education and studying higher ed policy at the doctoral level helps in her role as First Lady, because it gives her a better understanding of what his job is and everything it involves. “We are 100 percent a team,” she said. “We’re all in this together.”
To relax, she says that they enjoy family days. It might be swimming, or it might be attending a university sporting event together as a family. But it’s clear that
“We were both just amazed at how welcome everyone made us feel from the very beginning. From the University family to the community…it’s just been so wonderful.”
LILIA ALEXANDER
for the Alexanders, the best times are when all five are together, no matter what the activity might be. They love their new city, and they love their new role. “This is so wonderful,” Lilia said. “That we are here together raising our family in such a great environment.”
The Alexanders love Texas. While Lilia admits that she was nervous about undertaking such a big move with a weeks-old baby at the time, everything has worked out wonderfully for the family. “We were both just amazed at how welcome everyone made us feel from the very beginning. From the University family to the community…it’s just been so wonderful,” she added. The girls have found plenty to do between swimming, tennis, and gymnastics. Lilia has a new position on the board of the Women for Texas A&M UniversityTexarkana, where she works with other ladies from the area who are dedicated to the success of the University. “Lilia is an exemplary mother and wife who expertly balances family, work, and first-lady responsibilities— all with grace, poise, and good humor. I am consistently amazed and awed by her,” Ross said.
“I am thankful each and every day that I have the honor and privilege of being married to such an accomplished, talented, and beautiful woman.”
DR. ROSS C. ALEXANDER
TEXAS
A&M UNIVERSITY-TEXARKANA PRESIDENT AND CEO
FACULTY & STAFF
DR. MICHAEL PERRI EARNS PRESTIGIOUS REGENTS PROFESSOR DISTINCTION
Texas A&M University-Texarkana Professor of History
Dr. Michael Perri was recently named a 2023-2024 Regents Professor by the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents. The Regents Professor Awards program was established in 1996, and the Regents Fellow Service Awards program was created in 1997 to honor employees who have made extraordinary contributions to their university or agency, as well as to the people of Texas.
“Each of these distinguished individuals has made significant contributions to their fields and to the state of Texas,” said Bill Mahomes, Chairman of The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents. “Their achievements embody the A&M System’s mission of service and innovation, and I hope their dedication will motivate others.” To date, 323 Texas A&M System faculty members have been recognized with the Regents Professor Award.
Professor Perri began teaching at A&M-Texarkana in 2004 as an Assistant Professor of History and was promoted to Associate Professor in 2008 and Full Professor in 2018. Prior to joining the A&M-Texarkana faculty, he was a Visiting Professor of History at the University of Minnesota at Morris from 2002–2004 while writing his dissertation. He was an instructor at Dillard University in New Orleans from 2001–2002 and before that he taught History as an adjunct faculty member in Georgia at both Emory University, 1996–2000, and Reinhardt College, 1996–1998.
“Dr. Perri exemplifies the type of professor we want at Texas A&M University-Texarkana. He is extremely well-credentialed, passionate about his subject matter, and builds relationships with his students that not only help them achieve their academic goals but also support them long after they’ve graduated. The honor of being named a Regents Professor is very well deserved.”
DR. ROSS C. ALEXANDER
TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-TEXARKANA PRESIDENT AND CEO
Dr. Perri and his wife, Maria, have two daughters, Francis (20) and Mia (16). The family enjoys traveling to California and to Mexico to see family and playing/ watching soccer. Though not currently coaching, Dr. Perri has coached youth soccer teams for 16 years and daughter Mia is a member of the Texas High School soccer team.
Dr. Venus Lillis was recently named the Vice President for Enrollment Management. Dr. Lillis has served in a number of roles at the University since 2010, most recently as the Associate Vice President for Enrollment and Student Engagement.
DR.
URISONYA
FLUNDER VICE PRESIDENT OF STUDENT LIFE
Dr. Urisonya Flunder was recently named Vice President of Student Life. Prior to joining A&M-Texarkana Dr. Flunder was the Executive Director of Student Life at Odessa College.
RECORD ENROLLMENT
DR. VENUS LILLIS VICE PRESIDENT FOR ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
MEET THE HARRINGTONS
Zac Harrington grew up in Magnolia, Arkansas, roughly an hour east of A&M-Texarkana. After graduating from SAU, Zac still had some eligibility left as a college baseball player and knew he wanted to keep playing. Ashley Dykes grew up an hour north of campus in DeQueen, Arkansas. Ashley and her twin sister, Abby, couldn’t decide where they wanted to go to college, or if they were going to continue their basketball careers at the next level.
Zac knew friends from his summer league baseball team who played for the TAMUT Eagles. They introduced him to the coaches, and Zac enrolled in grad school for the next Fall.
Ashley and Abby had decided that they wanted to play basketball together in college. After a visit to the A&MTexarkana campus to meet the coach and see the facilities, their mind was made up.
Ashley became good friends with TAMUT student Flavio Tirado, who happened to be a teammate of Zac’s on the baseball team. “I know the perfect guy for you,” he once told Ashley. He introduced her to Zac, and that’s where two stories became one.
Both being from small towns, they each said that one of their favorite things about the University was its small size. “I love the community feel at Texas A&M UniversityTexarkana,” said Zac. “You really get a chance to know a lot of people. You get a chance to know everyone, and to build relationships with a lot of people. That was one of my favorite things about my time at the University.”
They both stated that the small size of the University wasn’t just an advantage socially, but that it helped them in the classroom as well. Smaller class sizes mean greater personal interaction between professors and students—something each said was a benefit to them. Zac is a loan officer at Bodcaw Bank, where he has been employed for three years. “Of course the content I learned was beneficial,” Zac said. “But the added value was learning how to be adaptable. How to take that knowledge and apply it to whatever career situation you find yourself in.”
Ashley, who studied education at the University, said the relationships she built with her professors were instrumental in her successful transition from a college
“Abby and I decided at the last minute that we wanted to play college ball together. When we toured the University, it was very welcoming. The dorm and the athletic facilities are much nicer than other NAIA universities. I loved living in the dorm, we really got to know a lot of people and had a very close-knit group of friends. We did everything together. We’d hang out, study, and even all head over to the cafeteria together at mealtime.”
ASHLEY HARRINGTON
TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-TEXARKANA GRADUATE
student to a full-time educator. “The first year I taught, my professors were always checking up on me,” she said. “They would call or text to see how I was doing, or to see if there was anything I needed. That level of support after you have graduated is something special.”
The couple has one daughter, Avery, who is the only grandchild on either side of the family. Being only an hour away from all the grandparents makes living in Texarkana that much better. “Both our families are able to spend a lot of time with us,” Ashley said. “We might all have gotten a little spoiled,” she added.
Both Zac and Ashley are excited about the many new developments at their alma mater. “I’ve heard Dr. Alexander speak a couple of times now and it’s pretty clear that some amazing things are happening at the University,” said Zac. The couple says that they enjoy coming back onto campus for athletic events and look forward to attending other events at the University.
F armers ba nK foundation
SCHOLARSHIP FUND SOARS WITH FARMERS BANK FOUNDATION DISTINGUISHED SPEAKER SERIES INVESTING IN FUTURES
Former Olympic and professional boxing champion
Sugar Ray Leonard spoke to a packed house at the 2024 Farmers Bank Foundation Distinguished Speaker Series. The event, now in its 5th year, will feature Heisman Trophy winner and former professional athlete Tim Tebow on April 10, 2025.
On April 10, 2024, Texas A&M University-Texarkana and the Farmers Bank Foundation hosted the third Farmers Bank & Trust Distinguished Speaker Series event featuring Olympic and Professional Boxing Champion Sugar Ray Leonard.
The Farmers Bank & Trust Distinguished Speaker Series events raise money for students who are graduating from Texarkana College and the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana who are enrolling at Texas A&M University-Texarkana to complete a bachelor’s degree.
Through these events, the University provides crucial financial support, helping students achieve their academic and career goals.
DR. ROSS C. ALEXANDER
SONJA YATES HUBBARD RECEIVES HONORARY DOCTOR OF LEADERSHIP DEGREE
Texas A&M University-Texarkana recently honored longtime Texarkana business and community leader Sonja Yates Hubbard with an Honorary Doctor of Leadership degree. A&M-Texarkana President Dr. Ross Alexander presented Hubbard with the degree during the University’s Fall commencement exercises held on December 14, 2024.
“It was my distinct honor to present Sonja Yates Hubbard with the Honorary Doctor of Leadership from Texas A&M University-Texarkana,” said Texas A&M UniversityTexarkana President Dr. Ross Alexander. “She has spent decades in service to the community and is an ardent supporter of this University and of its students. The Eagle Aspire mentorship program she co-founded for A&M-Texarkana students is a wonderful example of her work…through which she helps young men and women prepare not just for life after graduation, but for careers and lifetimes in leadership and service to others.”
Sonja Yates Hubbard currently serves as a Principal for Yates Group, Inc., a family-based real estate management firm located in Texarkana. Sonja is a Certified Public Accountant who received her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville.
Sonja served E-Z Mart Stores, Inc. for 31 years, 20 of those in the capacity of Chief Executive Officer, before the company was sold in 2018. The company was a family-owned business founded in 1970, that at its peak, operated over 500 convenience stores in Arkansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas. Within the convenience store industry, Sonja made history as the first woman to hold the position of Chairman of the National Association of Convenience Stores, which represents over 150,000 locations within the United States.
Throughout her career, she has served on a variety of boards including the Federal Reserve Banks of St. Louis, AR-TX REDI, Arkansas Research Alliance, Opportunities, Inc., Riverbend Water Resources District, and Farmers Bank & Trust. She has also been the recipient of awards and recognitions including the 2023 David Pryor Award for Outstanding Spirit & Commitment from Opportunities, Inc., 2019 C.E. Palmer Achievement Award, 2019 Idalee Hawkins Leadership Award, 2010 Convenience Store Hall of Fame, 2010 Texarkana Regional Arts & Humanities Hero Award for Leadership, 2009 Accountant of the Year in Industry/ Government from the University of Arkansas, and the 2009 Outstanding CPA in Business & Industry by the Arkansas Society of CPA’s.
DR. DAVID ALLARD’S LIFELONG PASSION FOR BIOLOGY LEAVES AN INDELIBLE MARK
In November of 2023 the University lost a treasured member of its community when Dr. David Allard, Professor of Biology, passed away following a lengthy illness. Dr. Allard had been a faculty member at A&MTexarkana for 23 years.
Dr. Allard earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in biology from Stephen F. Austin State University and earned his Ph.D. at Texas A&M University in College Station. Dr. Allard’s career as an educator spanned parts of six decades beginning with his first teaching assignment at Ranger Junior College in 1979, followed by 17 years teaching at Texarkana College before joining the A&M-Texarkana faculty in 2000.
Dr. Allard supported his students both inside and outside of the classroom. Beloved by his students and coworkers alike, Dr. Allard was a frequent attendee at University events and athletic competitions (even in his declining health) to show support for his students in
“Dr. Allard was an amazing professor, and I am so grateful for his impact on my life. Not only did he care about how I was doing in his class, but he also cared immensely about my personal life as well.”
ARIELL HOPKINS
TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-TEXARKANA 2022 GRADUATE
their extracurricular endeavors. Dr. Allard’s passion for teaching biology left an indelible mark on thousands of students throughout his career, and he will be missed by all who knew him. In 2023 Dr. Allard and his wife, Ellen, created the David and Ellen Allard Endowed Scholarship, which benefits TAMUT students who are studying biology.
“Dr. Allard was an amazing professor and I am so grateful for his impact on my life. Not only did he care about how I was doing in his class, but he also cared immensely about my personal life as well. Dr. Allard would always take the time out of his busy schedule to ask me how my soccer games went, check on how I was doing after an injury, and congratulate me on my accomplishments. This meant the world to me. Dr. Allard also wrote a letter of recommendation for me which helped me get into medical school, for which I will be forever grateful. He will be greatly missed.” – Ariell Hopkins, 2022 A&M-Texarkana graduate and current medical student at the McGovern Medical School at UT Health Houston.
