History and Traditions

History

Authorized by the Texas Legislature in 1899, Southwest Texas State Normal School opened its doors in 1903. Over the years, the Legislature broadened the institution's scope and changed its name, in succession, to Normal College, Teachers College, College, University, and in 2003 to Texas State University-San Marcos. Each name reflects the university's growth from a small teacher preparation institution to a major, multipurpose university. Through its eight academic colleges, Texas State offers 109 undergraduate and 96 post-graduate degrees to serve the needs of future generations of Texans.

Landmarks and Traditions

Alumni House	Loud Crowd/Fanatics
Alma Mater	The Ceremonial Mace
Bobcat Alley	Old Main
Bobcat Build	Pack It Up and Pass It On
Bobcat Logo	The Quad
Bobcat Mascot	Ring Ceremony
Bobcat Pause	School Colors
Bobcat Victory Ball	Sewell Park
Fight Song	Soap Box Derby
Fighting Stallions	Spirit Fridays
Hand Signs	Strutters
Homecoming	Texas State Chant
LBJ Statue	Texas State Seal
LBJ Student Picnic	Victory Star

For more information, go to http://pride-traditions.ua.txstate.edu/