The Texas State University System has received more than $60 million in state support for Sul Ross State University, including a historic investment of more than $59 million for capital projects in both service regions of the University. The funding, secured by TSUS leadership during the 2021 legislative sessions, includes:
- $33.1 million for multi-purpose education buildings in the Rio Grande College (RGC) service area
- $26.4 million for the renovation of the Beaux-Arts buildings in Alpine
- $1 million in recurring state general revenue support to enhance the university’s student success initiatives
“This funding for Sul Ross represents a historic investment in South and West Texas and will go a long way to help give our students the tools to prepare them for meaningful careers within the strong workforce. of Texas,” Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan said. “I commend the Texas State University System for continuing to make Sul Ross a priority and for putting in place a thoughtful process to ensure the best use of these funds.” TSUS institutions will receive combined support of $422.6 million for capital projects under Senate Bill 52, the Capital Construction Assistance Bill passed by the Legislative Assembly during the third extraordinary session of 2021.
The Texas State University System will engage a leading higher education consulting firm this month to meet with faculty, staff, students, employers, community members, and other key RGC stakeholders to Assess current and future education and labor needs in the Rio Grande region. As part of facilities programming, the consultant will analyze data and strategic information to determine the best use of new infrastructure and other investments.
“The historic level of funding secured by TSUS will allow Rio Grande College to significantly expand its own physical presence in the region, providing students with new classrooms, state-of-the-art technology and support services to enhance their college experience,” said TSUS Chancellor Brian McCall. Rio Grande College currently leases facilities from its educational partner, Southwest Texas Junior College.
Sul Ross State University, with campuses in Alpine, Del Rio, Eagle Pass, and Uvalde, has been a member of the Texas State University System since 1917. The system’s seven member institutions educate more than 87,000 students at 13 campuses in the Big Bend from Texas to the Gulf Coast.
