STEPHENVILLE, Texas — Tarleton State University’s new Research and Economic Development Building officially opened with a ribbon cutting and open house today.
The university will share the state-of-the-art facility, located at U.S. Highway 281 and East Lingleville Road, with Texas A&M AgriLife Research and the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.
Sponsored research and regional partnerships are two areas set to benefit from the new innovation ecosystem.
“Our economy is driven through research and innovation,” said Tarleton State President Dr. James Hurley. “The cutting-edge research between our university and Texas A&M AgriLife moving forward will help to meet challenges in Texas and beyond. As our university celebrates 125 years starting this fall, we are committed to building a better future for all.”
In 2022-23, Tarleton State celebrated its largest-ever increase in total and restricted research expenditures and the highest jump in Higher Education Research and Development (HERD) rankings. Expenditures for fiscal 2022 totaled $20 million, and Tarleton’s HERD status moved up to 289. The next HERD Survey is scheduled to be released in November.
“Today marks a major step in bringing increased research funding to Stephenville,” said Texas A&M System Chancellor John Sharp. “We are proud of the work being done by Tarleton State and Texas A&M AgriLife to benefit the region. Their close collaboration here is just another example of the benefits that come with being a part of The Texas A&M University System.”
Last year Tarleton State received a grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration enabling the university to operate as an EDA University Center — the only one in North Central Texas and one of just 73 nationwide. In addition to $650,000 in EDA funding, regional partners are matching the grant in-kind for a total $1.3 million over five years.
The space, which offers 10,000 square feet, will also house Tarleton State’s Institute for Rural Economic Development and Research and the university’s Small Business Development Center.
Working collaboratively, Tarleton State and Texas A&M AgriLife will conduct research and create programs that improve the lives of Texans.
“Buildings bring people together,” said Dr. Jeffrey W. Savell, Vice Chancellor and Dean for Agriculture and Life Sciences for Texas A&M AgriLife. “As we work to set new standards for our communities, this new building will advance cutting-edge research and innovation, sustainable production systems, resource development and economic strength. We look forward to what this building, and most importantly, the people in it, will accomplish.”
The new Institute for Rural Economic Development and Research will merge discovery and innovation to grow industries and foster job opportunities. Tarleton State will work alongside other Texas A&M System institutions, regional universities, start-up companies, business incubators and chambers of commerce to help drive North Central Texas prosperity.
State Rep. DeWayne Burns (District 58) said the benefits will be significant. “The impact of this building to Stephenville and the region will be immense. As a proud Tarleton State Texan, I am excited to see the innovative research that takes place moving forward.”
“Strong partnerships through research and innovation are needed for economic resilience and prosperity,” said Vice President for Tarleton State’s Division of Research, Innovation and Economic Development Dr. Rupa Iyer. “This new building will pave the way for incredible achievements in the years to come. We look forward to continuing to work with AgriLife as we start this next chapter.”
Mustard Design was the architect and The Christman Company the builder.
A founding member of The Texas A&M System, Tarleton State University is breaking records — in enrollment, research, scholarship, athletics, philanthropy and engagement — while transforming the lives of approximately 18,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Bryan and online. For 125 years, Tarleton State has been committed to accessible higher education opportunities for all while helping students grow academically, socially and professionally through programs that emphasize real world learning and address regional, state and national needs.