2019 College Report

H O R I Z O N S Whether hiking on foot or sailing on a ship, gazing at the horizon often evokes a sense of wonder. Life is marked by the continual facing of personal horizons. Horizons mark the point where the known and the unknown meet. Horizons can be flled with both anticipation and anxiety. Across the horizon may lie a signifcant challenge… as well as a great opportunity. Te pursuit of excellence involves the expansion of one’s horizons. Whether faculty, staf, student, or audience member, venturing forth into new experiences opens opportunities for growth. As we expand our horizons, we expand our potential as human beings. Te mission of the College of Fine Arts and Communication involves impacting society and helping individuals fulfll their potential. As I start my 21st year at Texas State, I have seen the continual, steady rise in excellence. Indeed, our “22 Points of Pride” (p. 6) refect a team efort and shared purpose that allows us to stand alongside any College of Fine Arts and Communication in the country. Tis College Report documents the individual accolades, international outreach, and national rankings that mark Texas State as a preferred destination, a place that provides a quality work environment, top-notch academics, cutting-edge research, and frst-rate cultural experiences. As the Texas State brand expands across the horizon, Bobcats are increasingly in demand for their expertise and indomitable work ethic. For example, last year 80 faculty were invited to deliver 165 performances/presentations in 46 countries on 6 continents. Tey are truly leaders in their feld. While I am extremely proud of the faculty, staf, students, and alumni, there are always more horizons towards which we strive. It is through our striving that we gain in wisdom and knowledge. It is in our interactions (artistically, scholarly, pedagogically) where our individual horizons intersect, enriching both giver and receiver. Te future is unknown— until we cross the horizon and forge the future we wish to see. Tank you for joining me on this journey. — John Fleming, Dean | August 1, 2019