Giving Societies

Texas State Development
Athletics Giving Societies

Founders Society - $500,000

The Southwest Texas State Normal School was established March 3, 1899 in a bill drafted by State Representative Fred Cocke with support from State Senator J.B. Dibrell. Despite early opposition, the bill passed and was signed into law on May 10, 1899 by Governor Joseph D. Sayers. In October 1899, the San Marcos City Council voted to donate 11 acres of land at what was known as Chautauqua Hill for the school to be built on. In 1901, the Texas legislature accepted this donation and approved $25,000 to be used for construction of buildings on the site. The building now known as Old Main was completed thereafter, and the school opened its doors to its first enrollment of 303 students in September 1903.

Much like those early founders who helped establish this great university, the Founders Society stand as a group of Texas State supporters whose commitment to Texas State Athletics has been truly transformational. The most prestigious of the athletics giving societies, the Founders Society serves as an elite group of donors who have supported, and continue to support, Texas State Athletics at the highest level.

The Founders Society recognizes the philanthropic support of individuals and families who have given $500,000 over their lifetime to Texas State Athletics in support of our student-athletes and the advancement of the department.

Old Main Society - $250,000 - $499,999

The most iconic of Texas State University's buildings, Old Main first opened its doors to Texas State students in the fall of 1903. Over 110 years later, Old Main still serves as the corner stone of Texas State's campus. With its iconic red, spired roof and ornately carved, filigreed cathedral ceilings, this classic structure has inspired generations of Texas State Alumni over the past century.

Just as Old Main has stood as a beacon for generations of Texas State alumni, members of the Old Main Society serve as shining examples of distinction, vision, passion and loyalty to Texas State Athletics. The donors who make up this prestigious society are truly pillars of our program, and their support has built a lasting foundation for the future success of Texas State Athletics.

The Old Main Society recognizes the philanthropic support of individuals and families who have given between $250,000 and $499,999 over their lifetime to Texas State Athletics in support of our student-athletes and the advancement of the department.

Oak and Cypress Society - $100,000 - $249,999

With the exception of Old Main, the most recognizable characteristics of the Texas State University campus are the abundance cypress and live oak trees that mark its landscape. Native to the Texas Hill County, the oak tree has long stood as a symbol of strength, hardiness and longevity, and the cypress tree is praised for its unique beauty, ingenuity and majestic appearance. Their presence on Texas State's campus has long providing protection and beauty while serving as an important member of the Aquarena Springs ecosystem.

Much like these iconic trees - with their combination of time-tested strength and beauty - members of the Cypress and Oak Society have proven their steadfast commitment to excellence with their charitable contributions to Texas State Athletics. The donors of this society ensure success of our athletics programs now and for years to come, just as the trees that fill Texas State's campus have watched over the Bobcat students for generations.

The Cypress and Oak Society recognizes the philanthropic support of individuals and families who have given between $100,000 and $249,999 over their lifetime to Texas State Athletics in support of our student-athletes and the advancement of the department.

Victory Star Society - $25,000 - $99,999

Texas State students first saw the Victory Star on campus in December 1936. In 1942, the tradition to light the star on the water tower after a Bobcat football team victory was created. When the water tower was replaced, the star was moved to Jackson Hall, the tallest building on campus, where it remains until this day and the tradition continues. It can be seen from miles away when the Bobcats win any athletic contest.

Since 1942, the Victory Star continues to shine bright over Texas State's 492-acre campus. The Victory Star Society is the epitome of pride and pageantry, and the gifts members of this society have bestowed on our department are visible representations of their pride in Texas State Athletics.

The Victory Star Society recognizes the philanthropic support of individuals and families who have given between $25,000 and $99,999 over their lifetime to Texas State Athletics in support of our student-athletes and the advancement of the department.