Lion statue in front of a bricked building. It is in the evening and the focus is on the lion.

A&M-Commerce Hosts Virtual Signing Day for Partnership with Multiple Organizations

Texas A&M University-Commerce hosted a virtual signing day on October 29 to commemorate partnerships with some of the most impactful professional organizations in Texas. The various agreements are part of the university's efforts to make college more accessible to underserved and underrepresented students in Texas.

A&M-Commerce President Mark Rudin and Dr. Kimberly McLeod, dean of the College of Education and Human Services, welcomed Ann Williams, president of the Texas Caucus of Black School Board Members; Dr. David Harris, president of the Texas Alliance of Black School Educators; Dr. Connie Williams, president of the Texas Association of Black Personnel in Higher Education; Zeph Capo, president of Texas AFT; and several other guests.

Also representing A&M-Commerce were Drs. DeMarquis Hayes and Juan Araujo, assistant deans for the College of Education and Human Services.

Rudin said the partnerships fit into the university's strategic goal of aligning with the community to leverage resources that advance the region's economic, social and cultural health and education.

“This is something I think will have an immediate impact,” said Rudin. “But I think the true impact will be realized generations from now.”

Rudin also thanked Dr. James Hallmark, The Texas A&M University System vice chancellor of Academic Affairs; Dr. Shonda Gibson, associate vice chancellor for Academic Affairs; and Abbie Harper, executive director of Community and Outreach at A&M-Commerce for their help and support in this momentous endeavor.

McLeod said the ceremonial signing represents a historic alliance for the university and the organizations involved.

“The collaborative agreements established by A&M-Commerce will enable our new educational partners and their respective members and institutions to create a clear, unobstructed pathway to a college education at one of the finest institutions in The Texas A&M University System,” McLeod.

McLeod reported that graduate students who are admitted through the partnership will have access to the President's Promise scholarship fund and the Dean's Opportunity Grant, available through the College of Education and Human Services.

“These new partnerships span the entire state of Texas, representing diverse voices and experiences,” McLeod said. “This collaboration creates new opportunities to earn a degree in higher education.”

Watch the signing day event.