Tarleton Alumni: Ever Forward, Ever Onward

BY DREW FLEMING / Multimedia Journalist

125 years of excellence is no small feat. The students of the past who are now alumni have had quite an impact on our past and our future.

The Tarleton Alumni Association’s responsibility is to support the current students, help them make the transition from student to alumni and preserve traditions.

Michelle Heavyside, class of 2000, is a Tarleton Sports Hall of Famer for track and field, a member of the Delta Zeta sorority and a member of the Alumni Association Board Member.

“Witnessing its growth fills me with a deep sense of pride and nostalgia. The expansion and development of the campus reflect not just the physical growth, but also the evolving spirit and increasing impact of the university,” Heavyside said.

Kaylee Cerda is the Associate Director of Alumni Engagement. While at school, she was a part of the Purple Poo as a TTS, Student Coordinator for Student Transition Programs, and was Homecoming queen. 

“Although change can sometimes be viewed as challenging, I think the changes at Tarleton State have been handled with excellence and I am personally encouraged to see our University become one of the best in the nation,” Cerda said. 

Cerda graduated in 2014 and so much can happen in a decade.

“Even with change, Tarleton State has managed to maintain its sense of tradition and integrity,” Cerda said. “One thing will never change about Tarleton State University and that is the spirit and pride each and every Texan holds in their hearts.” 

The Wall Street Journal ranked Tarleton fifth in universities highly recommended by students and recent alumni in an article posted in …… University President Dr. James Hurley stated that he is not surprised by The Wall Street Journal ranking.

“The academics, the knowledge exchange, the campus life — they’re all here.” Dr. Hurley said in an article posted through the Office of the President..

Heavyside echoed this sentiment.

“Seeing new facilities, programs, and opportunities emerge reminds me of my time there, and it reinforces my belief in the lasting value of a Tarleton education,” Heavyside said.

Anyone that has stepped on Tarleton’s campus knows this very well. Alumni, students, and staff all agree that Tarleton is the place where you find your family, your home and that the gates are always open.

“From their first day on campus, our students know they’re part of the Tarleton family. Their success is our top priority, and that will never change,” Dr. Hurley said in the article.

As Heavyside stated, Tarleton Alumni feel a strong connection to Tarleton’s future and a desire to support its mission to shape future generations. It is evident that this anniversary is a major milestone in the lives of past, current and future Tarleton Texans.