NEWS
SAN MARCOS CITY MIDTERM BALLOT PAGE 3
OPINION
SPORTS
GUTTING OF SEC. 2 AFFECTS MINORITY STUDENTS
VOLLEYBALL EMBARKS ON NEW ERA
PAGE 4
PAGE 6
TUESDAY
August 25, 2026 VOLUME 115 ISSUE 34
CATS’ MAKE HISTORY... TWICE SPORTS
TXST Soccer defeats No. 6 Baylor, Texas A&M By Juan Pereira Casanoba Sports Reporter
For most of Texas State Soccer’s 27-year history, they’ve always seemed to be the side chasing the tempo but not setting it against the top teams. That wasn’t the case this past week as the Bobcats secured two program-defining wins against Texas A&M and No. 6 Baylor. Their 3-2 victory against the Aggies at the Bobcat Soccer Complex was their first win against SEC opposition, and
their 3-1 win against the Bears on the road at Betty Lou Mays Field in Waco, Texas, marked the first time the program had ever beaten a ranked opponent. “We lose a lot of recruits to schools just like A&M, TCU, Texas and all the power four schools,” Steve Holeman, Texas State head coach, said after the win against A&M. “I think this is one of those games that coaches around the country see the result and go ‘Wow, Texas State, they must be decent, huh?’”
SEE SOCCER PAGE 6 PHOTO ILLUSTRATION
JEN NGUYEN & LIBBY ALLEN | DESIGN EDITOR & STAR PHOTOGRAPHER
TXST junior midfielder Helen Alormenu (10) directs teammates, Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2026, at Bobcat Soccer Complex.
CITY
UNIVERSITY
TSUS approves the creation of two new colleges By Arabella DiChristina News Editor
MUSIC
Lights out: ‘Concerts in the Dark’ comes to San Marcos RAE KNIGHT | STAR PHOTOGRAPHER
Pianist Dave Madden sang an original song titled “Jacob’s Well” on Sat., Aug. 22, 2026, in the Price Center.
By Rae Knight Life and Arts Reporter
Overhead lights shut off, leaving a single strand of lights and lamp twinkling for a unique concert experience on Saturday, Aug. 22, as acoustic renditions of the Beatles and Beethoven echoed through the Price Center. Concerts in the Dark, a performance series by musicians Will Taylor, guitarist and violinist; Tony Rogers, cellist; and Dave Madden, pianist, is a continuous, diverse compilation of music with the
goal of having a real, unplugged connection with the audience. The three artists performed in almost complete darkness. Before beginning the performance, Taylor encouraged everyone to close their eyes and think of their first time hearing those artists, as Rogers wandered the room playing the cello. After the exercise, the lights went out, engulfing the Price Center in darkness.
SEE CONCERT PAGE 7
The Texas State University System (TSUS) has approved the reorganization of the College of Science and Engineering (CoSE) into two new colleges: the College of Science and the Ingram College of Engineering. TSUS approved the reorganization during its Aug. 6 meeting, due to the college’s recent growth. Its planned to be reorganized in Fall 2027, but before the change can be implemented it needs final approval by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. As of Fall 2025, CoSE was the largest college at Texas State, with 9,760 students enrolled, a 9.3% increase from 2024, according to a 2025 enrollment press release. Jesus Jimenez, director and professor of the Ingram School of Engineering, said this reorganization was similar to watching your baby grow until they graduate from college.
SEE EDUCATION PAGE 3
COUNTY
TXST, County tightens game security By Sidney Orman News Contributor
Texas State and the Hays County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) have partnered to increase security personnel and procedures for this year’s upcoming football season. As Texas State settles into the Pac-12 from the Sun Belt Conference, the university will be funding an estimated 60-to 80 law
enforcement personnel from HCSO for each home game this upcoming season “The Pac-12 has global brand recognition, so it really does change the landscape for us in terms of security, especially at football,” University Police Department Chief Matthew Carmichael said. “It is going to bring in a lot more people into Hays County and Central Texas. So, from a security perspective,
we have to now elevate our care as well.” The first season in the Pac-12 is expected to bring increased attendance to the UFCU Stadium, which has a seating capacity of around 30,000 according to Texas State Facilities. Larger crowds mean more changes in game day operations and security procedures.
SEE SECURITY PAGE 2
AIDEN FRITSCHE | MULTIMEDIA EDITOR
UFCU stadium, Sunday, Aug. 23, 2026, San Marcos. UFCU stadium holds 28,388 people
NEWS
2
Tuesday, August 25, 2026
Arabella DiChristina | News Editor | starnews@txstate.edu
By Abby Cho News Contributor
employee in San Marcos and criminal justice freshman, said the new H-E-B will be much bigger and have more amenities for customers. “The older H-E-Bs have less food options, but the new one will have way more of a variety of produce for customers that are struggling with food insecurity,” Garcia said. In addition to the new supermarket, the new H-E-B will host a True Texas BBQ restaurant with indoor seating. H-E-B operates more than 30 True Texas BBQ locations across the state of Texas. Floy Alison, a San Marcos resident, said the new H-E-B is an opportunity to make San Marcos feel more connected and full of life. “As a resident, I’m excited to see new businesses like this create opportunities like jobs while giving people another reason to connect with one another,” Allison said. Marky said the new H-E-B will help many families, like hers, get the help and access to food they need. “I am grateful for the new H-E-B so other families that were struggling like mine are able to have access better foods and have an opportunity to get a job to help support their families,” Marky said.
San Marcos welcomes new H-E-B this Fall A third H-E-B is set to open on I-35 McCarty Lane in October, providing San Marcos residents with a new and larger supermarket. The new 114,000-square-foot H-E-B is set to open in October after construction began in 2025. The estimated $30 million development includes a pharmacy, fuel station, car wash, curbside pickup and a True Texas BBQ, and is expected to bring 450 jobs to San Marcos. H-E-B and the city reached an economic development agreement in 2024 to bring a new store to the area, granting H-E-B a fiveyear rebate, or refund, of a portion of the new property and sales tax revenue generated, in exchange for a significant investment in the project. The rebate is under the Chapter 380 economic development incentive agreement, a legal tool the city uses to boost local economic growth and create jobs for developments that would otherwise not select San Marcos as the location to locate or expand their operations, according to the city of San Marcos’ website. Ksenia Marky, a San Marcos resident, said she often walked or used public transportation to reach her closest grocery store after having her first child. “Bringing another H‑E‑B closer to East San Marcos is a major step forward for the community,” Marky
AIDEN FRITSCHE | MULTIMEDIA EDITOR
The new H-E-B is under construction where it sits off of McCarty Lane on Sunday, Aug. 23, 2026, in San Marcos. This will be the third H-E-B in the San Marcos area.
said. “Reducing the four‑mile trip for groceries means saving time, supporting families and fueling local growth with a store designed to meet the needs of a rapidly expanding city.” According to the Central Texas Food Bank, an individual’s zip code heavily influences their food access,
with low-access food areas, also known as food deserts, being common along the I-35 corridor and East San Marcos being labeled as one of them. Food deserts are areas where residents have limited access to affordable, fresh and nutritious food. Amerie Garcia, an H-E-B Plus
FROM FRONT SAFETY Last season’s highest-attendance many levels,” Becerra said. “Our Hays home game was against Nicholls State, County Sheriff’s Office is leaning in on family weekend, bringing in 31,500 and supporting public safety, that is an fans, according to the 2025 football additional weaving in of unity that I cumulative statistics. am most grateful for.” UPD has also developed a new As Texas State prepares for its first traffic mitigation plan along with home game Sept. 12 against the UTSA added security cameras, which will Roadrunners, UPD and HCSO hope improve traffic flow during the game that students and fans can present the and ensure fans’ safety, according university in a positive light, according to Carmichael. Traffic safety will be to Hipolito. provided by multiple vendors, which “If the majority of our folks who will allow law enforcement to focus show up here to cheer on the Bobcats on the tailgate and the stadium. are hospitable that reputation will With the city and local agencies quickly spread around the Pac-12 and working together to prepare for the throughout the country, and people increased game day traffic, Hays will flock to Texas State to come watch County Sheriff Anthony Hipolito said games because it’s fun,” Hipolito said. LIBBY ALLEN | STAR PHOTOGRAPHER safety is the main priority. Boko the Bobcat surfs over the student section during football season opener “We want people to be safe, and against Eastern Michigan, Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025, at UFCU Stadium. that’s our number one priority is to get people in the stadium safely and get them out as safely as possible,” Hipolito said. “It’s not necessarily about, you know, being hard on anybody; it’s about ensuring safety.” Along with monitoring the stadium grounds, law enforcement will also be focused on the tailgate area right outside the stadium. University officers, deputies and even correctional officers will play a major role in maintaining the safety of students and fans participating in the tailgate. The additional security presence has also received support from Hays County officials. During the Aug. 11 Commissioners Court, Judge Becerra expressed his support for the partnership between the two law LIBBY ALLEN | STAR PHOTOGRAPHER enforcement agencies. Texas State fans cheers for the football team during the Black Out Game against James Madison, Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025, at “It’s going to benefit us on so UFCU Stadium. The Bobcats lost to JMU 52-20.
Editorial Staff
History:
Trinity Building 203 Pleasant St. San Marcos, TX 78666 (512) 245 - 3487
The University Star is the student newspaper of Texas State University and is published every Tuesday of the spring and fall and once a month in the summer semesters. It is distributed on campus and throughout San Marcos at 8 a.m. on publication days with a distribution of 3,000. Printing is by the New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung.
Publication Info
Editor-in-Chief: Andrew Bencivengo
Multimedia Editor: Aiden Fritsche
stareditor@txstate.edu
starmultimedia@txstate.edu
Managing Editor: Meg Boles
Engagement Editor: Tatum Pou
starmanagingeditor@txstate.edu
starengagement@txstate.edu
News Editor: Arabella DiChristina
PIR Director: Keely Florez
starnews@txstate.edu
Life & Arts Editor: Cady Clements starlifeandarts@txstate.edu
Opinions Editor: Regina Orozco Lopez Forment staropinion@txstate.edu
Design Editor: Jen Nguyen stardesign@txstate.edu
starpr@txstate.edu
Creative Service Director: Sophia Gerke starcreative@txstate.edu
TV News Director: James Phillips startvnews@txstate.edu
Web Editor: Nico San Esteban starweb@txstate.edu
Sports Editor: Ayden Oredson starsports@txstate.edu Check out Star News Network for broadcast news!
Director: Laura Krantz, laurakrantz@txstate.edu
Copyright: Copyright Tuesday, August 25, 2026. All copy, photographs and graphics appearing in The University Star are the exclusive property of The University Star and may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the editor-in-chief. Corrections Policy: Errors appearing in the pages of The University Star and brought to our attention will be corrected as soon as possible.
Advertising Inquiries Contact at: 512-245-3487 advertising@universitystar.com
NEWS
3
Arabella DiChristina | News Editor | starnews@txstate.edu
Tuesday, August 25, 2026
FROM FRONT EDUCATION “Now that we see the reorganization, it’s like a dream come true and it’s a time for us to be renewing our dreams on what is coming next,” Jimenez said. Jimenez said that with the new College of Engineering, there will be more opportunities for students, more labs and the ability to expand into directions that Texas State believes are important and relevant. “Right now I have in just three engineering programs, about 2,800 students. Last year, we had about 2,300 students; we [are] growing at a very fast rate,” Jimenez said. “With the reorganization in engineering, we also have computer science and another department, which is engineering technology and altogether will be around 6,000 students.” Vice President for Research Shreekanth Mandayam said Texas State is trying to create colleges that are typical in most R1-level research institutions. R1 institutions are defined by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education as institutions having high research activity, spending at least $50 million annually and graduating 70 doctoral students a year for three consecutive years. Texas State is set to achieve R1 status by 2027. “Right now the situation is, we have a combined college that provides almost 40% of the research expenditures of the university,” Mandayam said.“ … so creation of new separate colleges, provides them the resources to grow, providing them research support staff, providing them administrative support staff, providing students the support staff to succeed in two colleges are a good thing and a sign of progress and growth.” Mandayam said a constant challenge other universities face is getting the college of engineering and science to work together; however, with CoSE having already worked
NATALIE MURRAY | ASSISTANT DESIGN EDITOR
together for years, he doesn’t anticipate Texas State dealing with this issue. “ ... I would say we are investing in the creation of two new colleges that return a lot more benefit to Texas State in terms of reputation, in terms of enrollment,” Mandayam said. Pranesh Aswath, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, wrote in an email to The Star that the provost’s office is currently in the planning process and
will recruit the deans of each college at the start of Fall 2026. “We are seeking forward-looking deans committed to preparing students for an evolving workforce, supporting faculty research at the highest levels, and actively engaging our alumni and community to engage with and support the colleges,” Aswath wrote. Aswath wrote that the provost’s office is actively seeking feedback through an open survey and invitation
to meet with the designated task force for faculty and staff. “Our task force is currently working to mitigate possible impacts of the separation, but like any change, there will be challenges that emerge. The likeliest issues are related to untangling systems and communication pathways and ensuring that workflows are all set up correctly,” Aswath wrote. The new Ingram College of Engineering will include one school, three departments and one joint program: School of Computing and Artificial Intelligence, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Department of Civil Engineering and the Built Environment, Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering, Engineering Technology and Engineering Management and Materials Science, Engineering and Commercialization Program with dual reports to the both Deans of the College of Science and the Ingram College of Engineering. The new College of Science will include five departments and one joint program: Department of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Biology, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Department of Mathematics, Department of Physics and Materials Science, Engineering, and Commercialization Program with dual reports to both of the Deans of the College of Science and Ingram College of Engineering. “You need to have efficiencies to scale here and you cannot have an extremely large organization where you’re trying desperately to support too many aspects and too many students and too many faculty and too many research projects,” Mandayam said. “This is a proper scaling of the organization so that you have two colleges that can be more effectively and efficiently supported.”
OPINION
4
Regina Orozco Lopez Forment | Opinion Editor | staropinion@txstate.edu
Tuesday, August 25, 2026
Opinions in The University Star are not necessarily those of our entire publication, Texas State University’s administration, Board of Regents, School of Journalism and Mass Communication or Student Publications Board.
Voting Rights Act gutting disenfranchises students By Regina Orozco Lopez Forment Opinion Editor
With midterm elections around the corner, students may be left feeling less represented than previous election cycles. On April 29, 2026, The Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) delivered a majority decision dismantling key provisions of Sec. 2 of the Voting Rights Act (VRA). The section guaranteed minority communities the right to fair congressional districts, protected voters and required equal access to voting, without barriers on the basis of race. The history of the Voting Rights Act is deeply embedded in SMTX’s past. Signed by Texas State alumnus Lyndon B. Johnson in 1965, the VRA was a triumph of freedom and equality. In the wake of widespread redistricting across the U.S., Sec. 2 previously allowed citizens to sue the government if the result of redrawn districts left them faced with misrepresentation of a certain minority group. The main proof needed to change the voting district was that it resulted in racial disenfranchisement. However, due to this decision, that protection is lost. Now they would have to maneuver their way around it and sue based on intent, rather than discriminatory outcomes. Sec. 2 states, “no voting qualification or prerequisite to voting, or standard, practice or procedure shall be imposed or applied by any State or political subdivision to deny or abridge the right of any citizen of the United States to vote on account of race or color,.” The Supreme Court made it easier for it to be used for unfair
SOPHIA GERKE | CREATIVE SERVICES DIRECTOR
gerrymandering, which is the process of manipulating election maps in ways that favor particular political outcomes. Ed Mihalkanan, associate professor of political science, said this decision causes two main issues. Firstly, voting accessibility can be hindered and secondly, minority candidates may not be elected as frequently because of the gutting of Section 2. “Section 2 was a key way that black and latino candidates got elected into office … this [the decision by SCOTUS] is extraordinarily difficult, if not impossible,” Mihalkanan said. Many students move from their hometowns to their desired university; with this in mind, it is important to look at mobile college voters, a distinct group that represents the high geographic mobility of college students. San Marcos is consolidated entirely in the U.S. Congressional District 21. Hays County is grouped into State House District 45. These specific districts represent the voting areas for soon-to-be or current students. According to Columbia Undergraduate Law Review, Sec. 2 has historically been a key tool for minority voters to challenge election systems or district maps that dilute
their voting power. A student may face ID requirements that impede them from casting a ballot depending on state law, as well as unclear residency rules, and limited voting time due to school schedules. This could, in turn, affect voter turnout as a direct result of this decision. As newer members of our democracy, students are a very valuable asset to decision-making in this state. They make up a massive part of the younger generation and population, representing a group of new, vital voters that can be affected by this ruling. A student’s vote is their voice. Thus, placing limits and barriers to when and how it can be used, especially when it comes to speaking out about unfair redistricting, affects their ability to fully support our democracy. Additionally, student involvement in making unadulterated decisions and creating stepping stones for active change holds massive importance and should not be revoked. Furthermore, if unfair voting boundaries occur, minority students may also be at risk of losing proper representation. It creates feelings of reduced influence, weakened or
silenced voices, as well as a lack of equal opportunity. This decision can ultimately reduce the number of minority representatives elected. According to KUT News, recent redistricting has already had a massive impact on majority-black and pluralityblack congressional districts in Republican-led states, including Texas, that was recently redistricted. Shining a light on an unfair double standard. Mihalkanin said that this inconsistency in redistricting creates a situation that becomes hypocritical and extremely complex. “State legislators cannot redistrict to increase the chances that a black person will be elected as a representative … But the state legislature can increase the chance that a white person would be elected as a representative,” Mihalkanin said. However, not all hope is lost. For one, Texas States’ efforts to create accessibility to registering and voting on campus have aided in student voter turnout, which is needed now more than ever. Secondly, states themselves have the ability to pass their own versions of the VRA, making for active change in both individual efforts and regional governments. Everyone has the power to advocate for fair representation, voting and ultimate equal opportunities; all that is needed is the will to use said power. Going out and voting, speaking out about unfair gerrymandering and standing up for minority voices is the first step in creating a democracy that represents America for what it stands for: diverse and equal. -Regina Orozco Lopez Forment is an English senior
Students can reverse decline in literacy rates By Shar Kiefer Opinion Columnist
Literacy and comprehension rates are experiencing a steady decline. However, Texas State students have the tools to aid in bringing the rates up. The Literacy Crisis is becoming a growing problem, yet there are ways to reverse these effects by dedicating time to improve personal literacy and finding the right book. While reading can look different for everyone, the variety of genres and formats allows it to be accessible to everyone. The National Literacy Institute reported in 2024 that around 79% of American adults were literate; however, of those 79%, 54% read at or below a sixth grade reading level. As literacy rates continue to decrease, it becomes vital for students to find their own reading patterns and find the right balance for them. Reading doesn’t have to be solely academic or even uninteresting, in fact, reading fiction books can actually have important psychological effects. Studies such as one from the National Institute of Health (NIH) found that reading fiction helps establish social norms and facilitate better in-person communication. Luckily, several communities have
already formed throughout society, both in person and virtually. For example, social media communities like BookTok or Bookstagram have created worldwide communities. James Wurtz, Department of English Chair, said reading is vital because it allows for knowledge to prosper. “Reading is really how you take in and organize knowledge,” Wurtz said. “It exposes you to new perspectives; it is something that takes time, you’re reading it, but then, you’re also sitting with that information and reflecting on it and incorporating it.” Finding techniques to teach material for class that is readingbased can aid in students’ literacy and comprehension levels. According to NIU Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning, structuring a class that requires textbooks, reading discussions and active engagement with texts can encourage students to read more. Some ways in which this can be achieved are supporting annotations in books, stating expectations at the start of a semester that reading is required, challenging students to analyze what they are reading with all sorts of lenses, assigning projects based on texts and truly, the possibilities to encourage reading are endless. Students can begin to increase their interest by simply reading by visiting Alkek and browsing through the unique variety of books within their 12 collections. Those books can
Letters to the Editor Policy The University Star welcomes letters from our readers. Letters must be 300 words or fewer to be considered for publication. Writers must include their full name, mailing address, major and academic year designation (for students), phone number and e-mail address when submitting a letter. Submissions that do not include this information cannot be published. This information is seen only by the editors and is used to verify the identify of the letter writer. It is
be checked out through use of a Bobcat ID or at the librarian’s desk. Librarians can also give recommendations to students who ask. Alkek can be an incredible resource for students, and when its amazing and readily available assets get put to use, the Texas State community can grow through literature. Several events spaced throughout the semester happen at Alkek and are open to varieties of students. Additionally, libraries like the San Marcos Public Library also hold events that are open to the public. These community events show that reading doesn’t have to be boring, it can be a way to connect with others, meet new people or even relieve stress. Part of reversing the effects of the continuing literacy crisis is removing the stigma around
MILLA DEUR | CREATIVE SERVICES ASSISTANT
reading and creating an environment where openness towards reading can be fostered. Wurtz said finding what genre is right for someone allows for passion to thrive. “Find your passion,” Wurtz said. “You can read about literally anything; it doesn’t have to be in the context of school and it doesn’t have to be classic literature, whatever it is that you’re into there’s plenty out there.” Reversing the literacy crisis’s effects is possible, it starts with students who can make that change. Attend library events, ask for recommendations and get out there, the journey starts as soon as the first page is turned. - Shar Kiefer is a political science junior
not used for any commercial purpose. Letters become the property of The Star and may be republished in any format. The letter may be edited for length and clarity. An editor will contact the letter writer if their letter is a candidate for publication. The Star will not run letters that are potentially libelous, discriminatory, obscene, threatening or promotional in nature. Letters can be submitted to staropinion@txstate.edu or by mail to Attn: Opinion Editor, The University Star, 601 University Drive, San Marcos, TX, 78666.
5
GAMES
Tuesday, August 25, 2026
Sophia Gerke & Milla Deur | Creative Services | starcreative@txstate.edu
SUDOKU GAME BY SUDOKU-SOLUTIONS.COM
9
1
8
9 4
9 6
5 7
SPLASHTASTIC!
8
1. Mammal friend of the ocean mermaids. 3. Fish Skin! 4. Greens found in the sea, and maybe even a mermaid’s salad. 5. The San Marcos mermaids’ favorite hangout!
2
3
5
9
9
1
8
6
3
9
7
6
5
3
9
8
NONOGRAM
2. Paired with fried fish in bloody ol’ England. 6. Movie about a mermaid and friendship starring Emma Roberts. 7. Breathing under water is easy for mermaids with this organ.
SPLASHTASTIC!
4 7
5 7 9 4 5
WORD SCRAMBLE SPLASHTASTIC!
1 2 4 4 4 2 4
__ __ __ __
1 4 2
1. ALSE
OCEAN BARKER
2. LILRK
WHALE BITES
__ __ __ __ __
4 2
3. EWRAT
THE DRINK
__ __ __ __ __
9
4. IHMPRS
TINY PINK
__ __ __ __ __ __
6. RAUTRESCE
9
6
Across:
5. ERASHOE
2
2
4
7 4
1
Down:
6
2
9 CROSSWORD
7
PREGNANT MAN SEA LURKERS
__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
1 3 4
7 2 1 3 3 5
3 2
9
6
3 3
4 7 5 12 3
5 4
3 5
1 2 2
2 2 1
5 2
3 2
2
6
Tuesday, August 25, 2026
SPORTS
Ayden Oredson | Sports Editor | starsports@txstate.edu
VOLLEYBALL
TXST Volleyball looks ahead to a new era second round exit in the Sun Belt Conference Tournament. Huiet had plenty to replace Texas State volleyball enters the after eight players left the program 2026 campaign with a roster overhaul following last season, so he leaned coinciding with a move to the Pac-12 on the transfer portal to reload with Conference under seven-year head experienced talent. Five newcomers coach Sean Huiet. arrived: Peyton McKee, Camryn The Bobcats previously played Kimes, Ashley Euston, Jasmine in two exhibition games earlier this Purakal and India Bennett. month at Strahan Arena, splitting the Purakal, a fifth-year libero, joins results with a loss to Tarleton State the Bobcats after a decorated career at and a win that played out to five sets Robert Morris, where she was named against Lamar, with the focus now set the 2025 Horizon League Libero for the regular season. of the Year and finished among the national leaders in digs per set. She Retooling the Roster has stepped straight into the starting AIDEN FRITSCHE | MULTIMEDIA EDITOR role for Texas State. Despite possessing a Rating Bennett, a fifth-year middle Texas State senior outside hitter Brooke Bentke (11, center) celebrates with her Percentage Index (RPI) of 45, a blocker, brings similar pedigree teammates, Aug. 8, 2026, at Strahan Arena. mathematical formula used to rank from Southeastern Louisiana, where teams based on their wins, losses she earned back-to-back Southland a strong second option behind her, program. The rebuilt league added and the strength of their schedule, Conference Defensive Player of the the defense has shown signs of being a wave of former Mountain West the Bobcats missed the NCAA Week honors and All-Louisiana tough to play through. powers, notably Utah State, who Tournament after a 17-12 season and recognition last season. She is quickly finished the 2025 season with an RPI becoming a strong presence in the A New Slate of 21 and lost in the second round of middle for the Bobcats. the NCAA Tournament. There were just a few returners The exhibitions offered a The Pac-12 Conference will from last season’s roster, such as glimpse of both sides of a rebuilding crown its champion with a postseason senior setter Dylan Gilkey, outside roster: the rough edges of a team tournament for the first time in its hitter Brooke Bentke and outside hitter still building chemistry and 110-year history with a postseason Ameena Campbell. Ally Adair and glimpses of real potential across tournament as the top four teams Anna Blaine round out the returning every aspect of the game. in the standings will qualify. The core. They will carry the load of Huiet has never had a losing postseason tournament will take place building chemistry with so many new season since taking over in 2020, at the school with the highest firstfaces around them. building a 134-59 record with a 79-17 half conference winning percentage, Bentke steps into a bigger mark in conference play, five Sun Belt according to the Pac-12. offensive role after the departures Tournament titles and back-to-back The Bobcats will open their of Nina Moore and Maggie Walsh, NCAA Tournament appearances in first Pac-12 season at home, hosting showcasing that by leading the way 2023 and 2024, a stretch that included Oklahoma for a 6 p.m. match on Aug. in total attempts with 21 in their most the program’s first at-large bid. 28 at Strahan Arena. The match will recent matchup against Lamar. Now he gets to carry that success be available to stream on the official Four true freshmen joined the into a new league and he’ll look to Pac-12 YouTube channel. roster as well, with outside hitter Janet establish the Bobcats as a Pac-12 contender the same way he built them AIDEN FRITSCHE | MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Onuorah standing out among them. Texas State fifth year senior libero The back row may be this team’s into a Sun Belt power. Jasmine Purakal (12) dives for a dig biggest strength. Purakal’s defensive, The move to the Pac-12 will look against Lamar, Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026, alongside Kimes giving the Bobcats to be an interesting challenge for the By Crystal Creek Sports Reporter
at Strahan Arena.
FROM FRONT SOCCER Texas State has come out of the gate firing on all cylinders in the 2026 season. Scorelines aside, any team can squeeze out a win by sheer luck and variables, but the Bobcats looked like the better team in both matches. That’s been, in large part, due to them excelling in two major categories: set pieces and composure. Set pieces occur when a dead ball is put into play after a stoppage, whether it be a corner, free kick, penalty kick, goal kick or throw-ins. In college soccer, set pieces can make or break a season, as height advantages and good deliveries easily tip the tides in specific scenarios. Even though the Bobcats aren’t considered a particularly tall team, they do get good service into the box and it’s enough to do some damage. Texas State scored three goals off of set pieces against Texas A&M and Baylor, with junior defender Jenny Ngankem being the main set piece taker as sophomores Brook Martinez and Matsuri Tsutsui were also involved. Tsutsui’s delivery is usually focused on placement, while Ngankem’s deliveries also cover large distances, meaning that teams usually have to set up deep near their own
goal to defend her crosses. For example, Texas State’s first goal against the Aggies came thanks to a long ball from Ngankem, passing it to senior Victoria Meza, who was left unmarked in the box and scored easily. “We practiced it a ton in preseason and [Meza and I] have a good connection in particular,” Ngankem said. “I see her, and I know where to put the ball for her.” Composure is an aspect of soccer that’s often overlooked but is important in deciding the flow of the game. Teams like Baylor hope to expose their opposition with a high and tight press, leading to a constant state of discomfort that they can later exploit. Texas State was not immune to this, but players like junior defender Nina Norshie and sophomore midfielder Alexis Montgomery have given the team a sense of pause and press resistance in possession. This allowed the Bobcats to not only keep the ball and put Baylor on the back foot but also diminish Baylor’s ability to apply constant pressure to Texas State’s backline. The Bobcats’ results against the Aggies and
Bears are proof that Texas State is no longer an average mid-major program. Mid-majors don’t come back from several deficits and come out as winners against teams with the pedigree and reputation as Texas A&M, and they certainly don’t win by multi-goal margins against top 10 sides such as Baylor. Yet, the Bobcats have found a way to not only compete against these power schools but now win against them. More results like these will only add further proof that Texas State belongs as one of the schools to be reckoned with, not only in the state but in the larger college soccer landscape. The Bobcats will return to San Marcos and face off against East Texas A&M at 7:30 p.m. on Aug. 27 at the Bobcat Soccer Complex. Fans will be able to watch the game for free through the Pac-12 YouTube channel.
LIBBY ALLEN | STAR PHOTOGRAPHER
Left: Texas State junior midfielder Helen Alormenu dribbles the ball around Texas A&M players, Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2026, at Bobcat Soccer Complex. Right: Texas State sophomore midfielder Matsuri Tsutsui goes after the ball, Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2026, at Bobcat Soccer Complex. The Bobcats beat Texas A&M 3-2.
LIFE & ARTS
7
Cady Clements | Life & Arts Editor | starlifeandarts@txstate.edu
Tuesday, August 25, 2026
FEATURE
Student entrepreneurship focus of CIE rebrand By Azja Farabee Life and Arts Contributor
The Center of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) is rebranding as the Center for Student Entrepreneurship (CSE) with a greater focus on supporting students in pursuing entrepreneurship, with mentorship opportunities and seed-funding. The CSE, an organization in the McCoy College of Business that offers events and programs to develop student entrepreneurial skills, kicked off the fall semester with a retro-inspired event that prepares the community for a rebrand that puts students at the core of its mission and its name. According to the CSE website, the organization exists to prepare the next generation of founders to build ventures that matter. For students looking to turn their aspirations into tangible opportunities, the CSE provides experience and financial capital that many students lack when looking to form a business. The CSE aims to relate to students inside and outside of the McCoy College of Business. Quinn Valentine, Director of the CSE, said everyone who utilizes the CSE is a student of some kind, so it was a natural next step to change its name to fit the mission. “We did a name change to better address who we served ... which is students.” Valentine said. “Of course, we are here for faculty and staff but the way I see it, everybody is a student of entrepreneurship because you’re always learning.” For the beginning of the school year, the CSE gathering space was decked out in an 80’s themed aesthetic. Neon colors and disco balls covered the corner of Alkek’s third floor, where students could stop by to learn the different features the CSE offers. The CSE offers programs such as the inviteonly program Open Penny Founder’s Table for students actively running a business, the Campus to Community Fund for students to expand campuswide businesses to the rest of the community, the Bobcat Bazaar where students can sign up to sell their products across campus and Student-Made Texas State, a targeted market for handmade creations by Texas State students to support student-creators. The Open Penny Founder’s Table gives
JAMES PHILLIPS | TV NEWS DIRECTOR
Students gather at the first Center for Student Entrepreneurship (CSE) event of the semester, Saturday. Aug. 19, 2026, at Alkek Library. The CSE was previously known as the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE).
students the opportunity to pitch their existing business for the possibility to earn money from a scholarship fund. Kreestyn Okorodudu, management senior and Open Penny Founder’s Table member who won last year’s Campus to Community Fund’s $10,000 scholarship, said her business, Yah’s Descent, benefits greatly from the CSE through mentorship, guidance and support on what steps to take to further succeed. “Even before our first pitch competition, the CSE literally held our hands through the entire process from start to finish,” Okorodudu said. “Then earlier this year Quinn told us about the Campus to Community Fund where we pitched again and earned the full $10,000 [for the business], so the CSE has been extremely helpful.” The CSE changed its name in April 2026 and will push for the full rebrand in the coming months. Its goal is to solidify the title of Center for Student Entrepreneurship on campus and uphold their mission of preparing the next generation of business
owners and entrepreneurs. “The name change is meant to be more of an umbrella,” Addi Villegas, marketing manager for Student-Made Texas State and CSE podcast coordinator, said. “We want to make it feel more inclusive [for students].” Kendall Perkinson, graduate student and CSE Program Coordinator, said introductory events can go a long way in learning what the CSE has to offer to students. “One thing I want [the students] to take away from today is to have the confidence to just keep showing up to events like this,” Perkinson said. “We’re here to support in any way, whether you’re actually interested in entrepreneurship or if it’s just someone to just talk to.” The CSE’s next meeting is called ‘Workshop Wednesday’ on Wed. Aug. 26, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the CSE gathering space on the third floor of Alkek.
FROM FRONT CONCERT Taylor began this series because he wanted to create a space that was safe and enjoyable for not only the audience, but the artist too. He said that many musicians struggle with their hearing due to the loud environments they perform in. “One of the things I’ve always enjoyed is the rehearsal process, and I’ve always thought, ‘Why can’t that be the performance,’” Taylor said. “I wanted to create an environment where the musicians could hear each other well and we were enjoying ourselves.” Between pieces, Taylor read a compilation of Beatles quotes in order to give the audience a better understanding of what went into this music and how the Beatles and Beethoven are connected throughout history. One excerpt described how John Lennon heard Piano Sonata No. 14 by Beethoven, then asked for it to be played backwards. This led to the writing of ‘Because’. “The process of playing around
with ideas like that takes a more theoretical understanding of music,” Madden said. “Finding connections between Beethoven and the Beatles, I think the public is curious about, but the connection really is a deeper musical theory.” Strings Attached’s Concerts in the Dark series began in 2023, organized by Taylor, including music such as Pink Floyd, Radiohead and more. Taylor said that the beyond part of these shows adds mystery to the performance so that the audience doesn’t know exactly what to expect. This show included songs by Led Zeppelin and original pieces alongside the Beatles and Beethoven. “We bring freshness to the music, new ways of connecting one composer to another, and it all somehow works,” Taylor said. “You can find these connections, and I think it brings people alive during the performance.” Strings Attached wanted this event to feel like an intimate classical performance. They did this by not only performing in a smaller venue, but also
RAE KNIGHT | STAR PHOTOGRAPHER
Pianist Dave Madden (left), cellist Tony Rogers (center) and guitarist Will Taylor (right) rehearse Sat. Aug. 22, 2026, at the Price Center.
by using mostly natural amplification. Using microphones for the vocals and guitar, but leaving the violin, cello and piano to be emphasized by the natural acoustics of the Price Center added ambiance to the environment. “I think that’s one of the things that kind of gets us excited about this,” Rogers said. “We can fill the room with the instruments that are designed to fill the room naturally, without adding on.” The Price Center strives to provide people with a space to connect with each other. With Stings Attached’s focus on meditation and true connection with the music, they matched the venue’s goals. Clay DeStefano, Executive Director of the Price Center, said he believes the space is best for intimate performances like this one. “I think our secret weapon, our strength, is the fact that we’re a
smaller venue,” DeStefano said. “I think the place just kind of has a life of its own and a personality that seeps into whatever’s going on in there.” The comfy atmosphere was emphasized by the free cacao served upon entry, and the yoga mats available for sitting on the stage behind the performers which made the music more immersive. Melody Hearst, audience member and geography senior, said when she attended Taylor’s previous show at the Price Center, she learned about cacao’s meditative qualities. “When you drank the cacao, you can feel the music, and it gives you a little trance, so during ‘Hey Jude’, you could feel the emotions a lot more,” Hearst said. “If you opened your eyes a little bit and looked specifically at that ceiling corner, you could start to actually visualize the notes.”
SNAPS
8
Aiden Fritsche | Multimedia Editor | starmultimedia@txstate.edu
Tuesday, August 25, 2026
LAUREN TOURISH | STAR PHOTOGRAPHER
San Antonio resident Jordan Royster enjoys his day off at the river with his dog Luna during the First Float event, Monday, Aug. 17, 2026, as Sewell Park. The river brings people from all over Texas to cool off during the summer. Boko the Bobcat celebrates after the game, Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026, at Strahan Arena. The Bobcat’s Volleyball team beat Lamar in their exhibition match 3-0.
Texas State junior middle Ally Adair (1) tosses a ball to the crowd, Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026, at Strahan Arena. The Bobcat’s Volleyball team beat the Lamar Cardinals in their exhibition match 3-0.
AIDEN FRITSCHE | MULTIMEDIA EDITOR
AIDEN FRITSCHE | MULTIMEDIA EDITOR
Freshmen float down the San Marcos River during the First Float event, Monday, Aug. 17, 2026, at Sewell Park. Texas State provided free tubes for freshmen for two days to introduce incoming students to San Marcos’ iconic natural feature.
LIBBY ALLEN | STAR PHOTOGRAPHER
Texas State women’s soccer team competes against TAMU, Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2026, at Bobcat Soccer Complex. The Bobcats beat TAMU 3-2.
LAUREN TOURISH | STAR PHOTOGRAPHER
Texas State fans cheer on the women’s soccer team, Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2026, at Bobcat Soccer Complex. The Bobcats beat TAMU 3-2.
LIBBY ALLEN | STAR PHOTOGRAPHER
LIBBY ALLEN | STAR PHOTOGRAPHER
Texas State fans cheer on the women’s soccer team, Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2026, at Bobcat Soccer Complex. The Bobcats beat TAMU 3-2.
Scan QR to view full gallery online