Tarleton State Giving

10/09/2026

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Joe R. Long, a beloved alumnus whose generosity, kindness and belief in Tarleton State students touched countless lives. He never forgot where his journey began, and his commitment to opening doors for others will continue to make a difference for generations to come. We are forever grateful for his legacy and the lasting impact he leaves on our Tarleton State family.

The Tarleton State community mourns the passing of Dr. Joe Long, alumnus and passionate supporter of the university.

Dr. Long attended John Tarleton Agricultural College in 1947, earning an associate degree in government and history. He was also a proud member of the ROTC program.

His commitment to Tarleton State continued throughout his life. In 2021, the Joe R. and Teresa L. Long Endowed Scholarship was established to support students in their educational journeys. Through their generosity, the Longs made one of the largest gifts in university history, helping launch Tarleton State’s proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine and expand opportunities for future physicians. Their commitment to serving others and supporting underserved students continues through the Lozano Long Division of Global, Community and First-Gen Initiatives, which bears their name.

We extend our deepest condolences to Dr. Long’s family and friends. 💜

Read more about Dr. Joe Long’s extraordinary legacy and the establishment of the Dr. Joe Long Philanthropy of the Year Award, which will be presented annually at Tarleton State’s gala celebration: https://bit.ly/4jeeNXe

10/08/2026

Last Saturday, we held our second annual John Tarleton Society induction ceremony, where we welcomed the 2026 induction class and upgraded the members who moved up a class. New this year, we also presented our Tarleton State University exclusive tartan jackets to their recipients.

The generosity of our John Tarleton Society members is a testament to their commitment to the betterment of our university and our students. To learn more about Tarleton State’s premier philanthropic community, visit https://www.tarleton.edu/giving/john-tarleton-society/.

10/06/2026

Throughout his career as one of Texas's most successful auto dealers, Dr. Sam Pack has never measured his success solely by the number of vehicles sold. Instead, he measures it by the lives changed, relationships cultivated, communities strengthened, and opportunities created for future generations. His legacy is a testament to the power of integrity, mentorship, and generosity.

We had the honor of sitting down with Dr. Pack to hear more about his remarkable journey and the legacy he continues to build. His story will be featured in the upcoming issue of Access and Excellence, arriving in early November. Stay tuned.

10/01/2026

“This scholarship facilitated my goals of getting into Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. I am exceedingly thankful that I left my undergraduate program with very little debt, so that I could enter into my next season as a veterinary student with minimal financial burden. This will continue to impact me as I am enabled to intentionally pour myself into my learning, and not experience the pull of diverted attention due to financial stress.”- Joan Fatzinger ’26

By giving to the College of Science and Mathematics at Tarleton State University, you help students like Joan access scholarships, research opportunities, and the tools they need to succeed as the next generation of scientists, physicians, and more. Make your gift today, and together we can build a brighter future. https://bit.ly/COSMDiscovery.

09/29/2026

At Tarleton State University, discovery starts with curiosity and opportunity, and every day, students in the College of Science and Mathematics have the chance to participate in hands-on research, solve real-world challenges, and make a lasting impact on industry.

In the College of Science and Mathematics, discovery starts here. With your gift, you can provide talented students with access to transformative learning experiences that will strengthen the future of science and mathematics. Give today at https://bit.ly/COSMDiscovery.

09/25/2026

Our hearts are heavy following the tragic passing of Tarleton State Rodeo student-athlete Alejandra Franco.

We extend our deepest condolences to Alejandra’s family, friends, teammates and everyone in the Tarleton State community who knew and loved her. We join the Rodeo Team in keeping them in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.

The Tarleton State Rodeo Team is deeply saddened by the passing of our own, Alejandra Franco.

Alejandra tragically lost her life yesterday, leaving behind a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

During this difficult time, we ask that you join us in keeping her family, friends, and the team in your thoughts and prayers.

09/24/2026

Last Friday, Tarleton State University students celebrated a pivotal milestone and proudly received their university rings, a symbol of their academic achievements and personal growth.

Your support empowers students to overcome challenges and seize new opportunities, and every gift opens doors to education and leadership for all Texans. Give today, and together we can build a brighter future. https://donate.tarleton.edu

09/22/2026

This past weekend, Tarleton State University celebrated Family Weekend, reminding us that families are the foundation of student success. Thank you to all the families whose support helps our Texans overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and achieve their goals.

Now, with your gift, you can open doors to education, well-being, and leadership for every student. Make your gift today, and together we can build a brighter future. https://donate.tarleton.edu/g/give-to-tarleton-state-university.

09/17/2026

It was through hard work, dedication, and taking every chance that came her way that first-generation student Amanda Castanon ‘25 overcame her initial uncertainty and was awarded the Outstanding Graduate Award for her major and department last December. Her achievements are a testament to the direct impact that scholarships and student support have on student success at Tarleton State University.

Read more about Amanda at https://www.tarleton.edu/giving/2026/09/17/from-first-generation-student-to-confident-graduate/

09/15/2026

First-generation student Gabrielle Darby has excelled at Tarleton State University. From taking on multiple campus leadership roles and representing the university at national conferences to serving in the Student Government Association and Inner Greek Council, her achievements are proof that scholarships and support can be life-changing on our campus.

Read more about Gabrielle in Access and Excellence at https://bit.ly/3R5wcpj.