Dr. James Hurley, the 16th President of Tarleton State University, has redefined the trajectory of the institution since his appointment by The Texas A&M System Board of Regents in August 2019. As a steadfast advocate for higher education, Dr. Hurley’s dynamic leadership has driven record-breaking growth, innovative initiatives, and transformative infrastructure improvements, all of which have significantly elevated Tarleton’s standing as a leading comprehensive public university.
A Legacy of Growth and Excellence
When Dr. James Hurley assumed leadership at Tarleton, he inherited a university with a rich history, but one poised for its next stage of evolution. Under his direction, Tarleton has grown into one of the fastest-growing public universities in the nation, experiencing a remarkable 25% increase in enrollment. This growth underscores the institution’s ability to meet the needs of a rapidly expanding and diverse student body.
Central to this transformation is Tarleton Forward 2030: Our Future-Focused Strategic Plan, a blueprint for positioning Tarleton as the premier comprehensive public university in the country. Guided by this plan, the university has made remarkable strides in key areas such as academic programs, student success, research initiatives, and regional engagement.
Dr. Hurley’s leadership has resulted in significant improvements in retention and graduation rates, enhancing the overall student experience. His emphasis on academic excellence earned Tarleton national recognition, with Money Magazine naming it one of the “Best Colleges in America” for 2024.
Advancing Research and Innovation
One of Dr. Hurley’s most significant contributions to Tarleton is his focus on expanding research capabilities. The university achieved the prestigious "Doctoral Universities: High Research Activity" designation by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, placing it among only 133 institutions nationwide. This milestone is a testament to Dr. Hurley’s efforts to elevate Tarleton’s academic profile and foster groundbreaking discoveries.
Research expenditures have increased by 67% during his tenure, bolstered by initiatives such as the President’s Excellence in Research Scholars program and the Institute for Rural Economic Development and Research. The opening of a state-of-the-art Research and Economic Development Building in 2024 further underscores his commitment to fostering a research-driven environment that benefits students, faculty, and the wider community.
Infrastructure to Meet Expanding Needs
As Tarleton’s student population has grown, so too has the need for modern, accessible infrastructure. Dr. Hurley has spearheaded numerous construction projects aimed at enhancing the university’s facilities and addressing critical workforce needs.
Among these projects is the $80 million Health Professions Building, which is set to play a vital role in addressing the state’s healthcare shortages. Additionally, the $110 million Event Center, currently under construction, promises to be a versatile venue for NCAA Division I basketball games, academic convocation ceremonies, conferences, and other events.
In total, more than $500 million in active construction and design projects are underway, reflecting Dr. Hurley’s strategic foresight in ensuring Tarleton’s infrastructure can support its ambitious goals.
Championing Student Success and Access
Dr. Hurley’s leadership philosophy centers on creating opportunities for all students, particularly those from underserved communities. Initiatives like the Tarleton Promise Scholarship demonstrate his commitment to financial accessibility. The program covers tuition, fees, room and board, and books for students who exhaust federal and state financial aid.
Additionally, the Tarleton Today dual-enrollment program has allowed more than 2,500 high school students to earn college credits, easing their transition into higher education. By building partnerships with regional high schools and community colleges, Dr. Hurley has further expanded access to educational opportunities.
Under Dr. Hurley, Tarleton has cultivated a student body that reflects the diversity of Texas and beyond, with students representing 230 Texas counties, 48 states, and 48 countries. These efforts highlight his dedication to ensuring that higher education is accessible to all, regardless of background or financial circumstances.
Recognized Leadership
Dr. James Hurley’s leadership has earned him recognition both within and beyond the academic community. In 2024, he received the United States Congressional Patriot Award for his positive contributions to society through higher education leadership. The North Texas Commission honored him with its Distinguished Education Leadership Award in 2022, and Fort Worth, Inc. Magazine named him one of the 400 most influential North Texans in 2023.
His accomplishments extend to athletics, where he successfully transitioned Tarleton State to NCAA Division I status in 2019. Under his guidance, the Texans have excelled both academically and competitively, setting records in the NCAA Academic Progress Rate and achieving multiple championships.
Building Regional and National Partnerships
Dr. Hurley’s influence reaches far beyond Tarleton’s campuses. He serves on several influential boards, including the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), the Western Athletic Conference Board of Presidents, and the North Texas Commission Executive Board of Directors. Through these roles, he contributes to discussions on higher education affordability, public policy, and economic development, ensuring that Tarleton remains at the forefront of addressing regional and national challenges.
His efforts to strengthen Tarleton’s reputation have also included cultivating partnerships with organizations such as the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities (APLU), which the university joined in 2022. This membership affirms Tarleton’s place among the top academic institutions in North America and highlights its commitment to educational access, research, and student success.
Preparing for the Future
Dr. Hurley’s approach to leadership is rooted in his own experiences as a first-generation college graduate and the grandson of coal miners. His belief in the transformative power of education drives his mission to create opportunities for students and communities alike.
His tenure at Tarleton has been marked by a focus on sustainability, growth, and innovation, ensuring that the university is well-equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow. From groundbreaking research initiatives to state-of-the-art facilities, Dr. Hurley has positioned Tarleton as a beacon of excellence in higher education.
A Lasting Impact
As Tarleton State continues to thrive under Dr. James Hurley, his leadership serves as a reminder of the importance of strategic vision, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to student success. His ability to balance immediate needs with long-term goals has not only transformed the university but also left an enduring legacy for future generations.
Dr. Hurley’s influence will be felt for years to come, as Tarleton State builds on its accomplishments and continues its rise as a leader in higher education. Through his dedication and leadership, Dr. James Hurley has solidified Tarleton’s place as an institution that not only educates but also inspires.
