Texas A&M University-Commerce began as East Texas Normal College in 1889 when founder William Leonidas Mayo opened the doors to a one-building campus in Cooper. His creed, which continues today, was "ceaseless industry, fearless investigation, unfettered thought, and unselfish service to others." The institution's history of dynamic change began in 1894 when "Mayo's College" moved to Commerce. The State of Texas took over the campus in 1917 and the name was changed to East Texas State Normal College. In 1923, the school was renamed East Texas State Teachers College. The graduate program was added in 1935, and in 1957 the Legislature, recognizing that the purpose of the institution had broadened from teacher education, changed the name to East Texas State College. Following the inauguration of the first doctoral program in 1962, the name was changed to East Texas State University. In 1996, the institution entered the Texas A&M University System and became Texas A&M University-Commerce. Today, on the Commerce campus, the Metroplex Center, the Universities Center at Dallas, Navarro College Partnership, and through state-of-the-art distance learning, the University meets the undergraduate, graduate and professional needs of the citizens of Northeast Texas and beyond. Its mission is achieved through teaching, scholarship, and service activities on its campuses, and in the community and region. For a more detailed history, go to http://www.tsha.utexas.edu/handbook/online/articles/view/TT/kct50.html

OUR VISION

Texas A&M University-Commerce will be recognized as a premier regional university, distinctive for high expectations, a nurturing environment, and innovations in the enhancement of learning to produce graduates who distinguish themselves in their chosen careers and as active, contributing members of society. By focusing on access, participation, and success of students in quality undergraduate and graduate degree programs, Texas A&M University-Commerce will become the university of choice for those seeking a higher education in the Northeast Texas area. As a result, Texas A&M University-Commerce will be recognized for the creation of partnerships and initiatives that promote intellectual, social, environmental, economic, and cultural advancement of the region and state.

OUR MISSION

Texas A&M University-Commerce provides a personal educational experience for a diverse community of life-long learners. Our purpose is to discover and disseminate knowledge for leadership and service in an interconnected and dynamic world. Our challenge is to nurture partnerships for the intellectual, cultural, social, and economic vitality of Texas and beyond.