On Aug. 29, Tarleton State University faculty and staff gathered in the Liberal Fine Arts auditorium for this year’s general address. As the meeting was brought to order, Tarleton President Dr. F. Dominic Dottavio took a moment to talk about the state of the University.

“We’ve welcomed 3,846 new students this fall to Tarleton’s campus which is the largest class in our history,” Dottavio said. “After moving 2,840 students in their residence halls we are now 117% over capacity.”

“I don’t even know how you do that quite frankly. I want to know who’s sleeping on a couch or a sleeping bag or I’m not going to mention where else,” he added.

Dottavio then introduced Chancellor John Sharp to the stage.

Mr. Sharp, Chancellor for the Texas A&M University system, told the faculty about the strategic plan for this year and the expectations of this plan, as well as Tarleton’s goals for it. Sharp went on to talk about why higher education is important for the state of the people.

“We are amongst the most powerful economic development tool on planet earth, and most certainly the most powerful economic development people in the state of Texas are in this room. I want to tell you why the whole future power house of Texas depends on what you do,” Sharp said.

“The truth of the matter is, economic development is higher education,” he added.

According to Sharp, Tarleton achieved one of the highest percent increases in funding across the state, and has brought in almost 70 new facility members.

After Sharp’s address, Dottovio explained the strategic plan for the next five years. The plan is structured around four strategic goals: academic innovation, student transformation, distinctive engagement, and exemplary service.

“We are here to transform lives,” said Dottavio.

Dottavio also commented on Tarleton’s great momentum for success, thanks in large part to increased enrollment rates. He closed his address with a challenge for the faculty.

“We have to embrace those four goals and bring them to life so we can earn the title of being the best.”