2013 State of the University Address

Today's Houstonian has some highlights from SHSU President Dana Gibson's September 5 State of the University:

Gibson said that the university has a projected goal of 18,830 students in fall 2013. The projected enrollment shows a 40 percent growth over the past ten years from fall 2003. She also indicated that although the official tally won’t be taken until the 12th day after classes started, enrollment was unofficially over 19,000.

Gibson also highlighted Master Plan changes at the meeting Thursday. She focused on land allocation and gave updates on various building projects.

"It’s good for you to know as member of the university and community to know where we are going," Gibson said.

The university was transferred 75 acres from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice in August and is in the final process of transferring the deeds. The land, which is on the north side of town on Highway 75 North, will be the home to a new TDCJ training facility. This is the first project that’s being planned this year, according to Gibson.

Another project Gibson mentioned was a new residential complex on the south side of campus on the parking lot currently between Ave. I and Ave. J.

More updates presented include the new Student Health and Counseling Center. She said that she hopes to break ground on the new building by the end of the year.