Introduction to the University of Houston-Victoria
The University of Houston-Victoria is on the verge of a significant change. A bill that would transfer the campus to the Texas A&M University System has passed the state Senate and is now headed to the Texas House for consideration. This move could have a major impact on the region’s industries and the future of the university.
The Proposed Transfer
The proposed law, Senate Bill 2361, would transfer the governance, control, management, and property of the University of Houston-Victoria from the University of Houston System to the Texas A&M University System. This means that the Texas A&M University System would assume control of the campus’s land, facilities, and property. State Senators Lois Kolkhorst and Paul Bettencourt, who sponsored the bill, believe that this transfer would help the region’s petrochemical and agricultural industries thrive.
Benefits for the Region
The region around Victoria is known for its strong agricultural and petrochemical sectors. The transfer of the university is expected to boost these industries and create new opportunities for growth. "As we look at the crossroads region … it has strong agriculture and logistical petrochemical sectors and this transfer presents an opportunity to Texas to lead the future of U.S. industry sectors," said Senator Kolkhorst. The region’s agricultural industry alone generates around $35-$55 million every year from crops such as beef, corn, cotton, sorghum, soybeans, and rice.
Impact on Students and Employees
The good news for students and employees of the University of Houston-Victoria is that the transfer is not expected to have a significant impact on them. Any existing rules, policies, tuition, or fees instituted by the university would remain in place until the Texas A&M University System implements its own. This means that students can continue their studies without disruption, and employees can continue to work without worrying about their jobs.
The Future of the University
If the bill passes the House and is signed by the Texas governor, the Victoria campus will become the 12th campus in the Texas A&M University System on September 1. This would be a significant expansion for the Texas A&M University System, which already has a strong presence in the state. The university would be able to offer a wider range of programs and opportunities to students, and would be better positioned to serve the needs of the region.
Conclusion
The proposed transfer of the University of Houston-Victoria to the Texas A&M University System has the potential to be a game-changer for the region. With its strong agricultural and petrochemical sectors, the region is well-positioned for growth and development. The transfer of the university would provide a major boost to these industries and create new opportunities for students, employees, and the community as a whole. As Senator Bettencourt said, "It was great to see so much community support and this one will be the 12th campus and therefore I will proclaim it to be the campus of the 12th Man at this point in time."
