2024 Archive

Eve Howell, a thoughtful undergraduate student at Texas State, recently established the Howell Endowment to help support TXST students diagnosed with complex post-traumatic stress disorder. This gift is deeply personal for Eve and is the first endowment established at TXST by a currently enrolled student. TXST donors choose to support what is most important to them when helping our students succeed. Thank you, Eve, for your generosity in using the power of philanthropy to pay it forward!

Exciting News for future Criminal Justice Leaders at Texas State University! The Jamie Therese Pruitt Endowed Scholarship in Criminal Justice has recently been established at Texas State University, all thanks to the generous spirit of Deborah Ann Pruitt and her impactful estate gift! This is not just a scholarship; it's a celebration of educational and professional milestones of Deborah's remarkable Bobcat daughter, Jamie.

Jamie's journey in the world of justice is nothing short of inspiring --serving as a defense attorney, public defender, prosecutor, and contributing to the Peace Corps in Central America. Not to mention, she has lent her expertise to countless legal proceedings for individuals and small businesses in her private practice.

The newly established endowment is set to make an impact by granting scholarships to undergraduate students within the School of Criminal Justice and Criminology. It's a needed opportunity, ensuring that the passion for justice continues to illuminate the path for future leaders at TXST.

A heartfelt thank you to Jamie for her unwavering dedication to justice and adherence to the procedures of the law. And gratitude to Mrs. Pruitt, a proud mother for recognizing and paying it forward, turning Jamie's inspiring passion into a legacy.

Thanks to dedicated alumni Lance, ‘94 and Jessica, ‘95 Lightfoot, a new scholarship opportunity is now available for Health Administration students at Texas State University. The Lance and Jessica Lightfoot Healthcare Administration Endowed Scholarship has been established to provide vital support and encouragement to students in TXST’s School of Health Administration. 

The Lightfoot’s are Forever Bobcat members and champions of healthcare administration education at TXST. Healthcare is an important theme in their philanthropy. Lance Lightfoot currently serves as the Senior Vice President and Chief Legal Officer of Texas Children's Hospital. Lance studied criminal justice, graduating magna cum laude, and was a member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity while at Texas State. Jessica Lightfoot is a research specialist at Texas Abstract Services. Jessica studied geography and was a member of Gamma Theta Upsilon honor society while at Texas State.

This scholarship will be available to undergraduate or graduate students in good academic standing and pursuing a Bachelor of Healthcare Administration or a Master of Healthcare Administration. A heartfelt thank you to Lance and Jessica for their thoughtful commitment to advancing healthcare administration education and helping shape the future for students on their academic journey at TXST.

Big thanks to TXST alumni Dean and Susan Harrel for their generous contribution to the John Ralph and Doris Harrel Memorial Endowed Scholarship in Music. The endowment awards scholarships to an outstanding Texas State University student majoring in the School of Music, with a preference to those students who are studying piano.

This enduring tribute to his parents stands in the form of an endowment that honors the remarkable contributions of Drs. John Ralph Harrel and Doris Harrel. Dr. John Ralph Harrel, a distinguished pianist, music professor, and the first Dean of the TXST College of Fine Arts and Communication, laid the foundation for patronage of arts education at TXST. His pioneering spirit and unwavering dedication to his craft have left an indelible mark on the university and its students.

Dr. Doris Harrel, a noted pianist and esteemed Suzuki Piano teacher trainer, brought the joy of music to countless students in San Marcos and beyond. Her commitment to nurturing talent and sharing her expertise at institutes and workshops worldwide speaks volumes about her passion for music education.

Both were revered for their profound love of music and their wealth of knowledge. Their legacy as exceptional mentors and musicians continues to shape the future of piano education at Texas State University. Through their enduring influence, a new generation of pianists is poised to make their mark on the world stage.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dean and Susan Harrel for this gift and for honoring the values of excellence, passion, and mentorship his parents contributed to TXST and the community. The Harrels' legacy lives on, driving what’s NEXT in the vibrant community of piano students at Texas State.