20-05-2025
Growth at TAMUT creates new jobs at university
TEXARKANA, Texas (KTAL/KMSS) – Texas A&M University-Texarkana's (TAMUT) growth has created several positions and is attracting professionals who have never worked in education.
'Dozens of new academic programs are being developed and added,' a press release stated. 'New facilities are springing to life around campus, and record enrollment continues semester after semester with no indication of slowing. The athletic department is adding new programs and on-campus venues and preparing for the jump to NCAA Division II.'
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TAMUT's Executive Director of Financial and Entrepreneurial Engagement, Jay Davis, oversees the Center for Financial Literacy and Investment (CFLI) and hosts workshops on financial literacy, investing, saving, and taxes.
'While I enjoyed a fulfilling career in banking, the opportunity to contribute to the mission of higher education at TAMUT presented a unique and compelling direction,' said Davis. 'What truly intrigued me was the university's clear vision for growth and its deep commitment to serving the Texarkana region. There was a tangible energy and ambition to become a pivotal force in our community's development.
'Furthermore, the leadership at TAMUT, including Dr. Alexander, clearly embodies this forward-thinking approach. His passion for the university's potential and his commitment to its success created an environment that I found incredibly inspiring and a place where I felt my skills and experience in finance could make a significant impact in empowering individuals and fostering economic growth.'
Davis added that TAMUT's growth and opportunity impacted his personal and professional development. He recently completed his MBA in Management at TAMUT.
'The knowledge and insights gained through my MBA directly enhance my ability to lead the Center for Financial Literacy and Investment and to empower individuals across the region with the financial tools they need to succeed,' Davis said. 'It's a testament to the supportive and forward-thinking environment that drew me to TAMUT in the first place.'
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Fred Meisenheimer became TAMUT's Associate Vice President for Operations following the expansion of the physical campus, which required effective management.
'Texarkana has been my home for the past 20 years, and I remain deeply committed to this community,' said Meisenheimer. 'I believe a strong, vibrant university can serve as a powerful catalyst for economic and social growth in a city like ours. At Texas A&M University–Texarkana, we are undertaking several ambitious initiatives that will result in a meaningful and lasting impact on the region. I am proud to contribute to the university's progress and excited about the opportunities ahead for both TAMUT and the greater Texarkana community.'
Amber Lawrence, a Texarkana native with previous experience in the non-profit and development sectors, was named TAMUT's Senior Development Officer.
'I have always had a passion for giving back to the community that has always been so good to me, so when the opportunity came to be part of TAMUT, it just felt like the right fit,' said Lawrence. 'The energy on campus and the direction the university is heading really inspired me. It's exciting to be part of something that's making a real difference in our region.
'The university's growth isn't just about new buildings or programs—it's about building a culture of innovation and purpose. I was intrigued by how TAMUT balances academic mission with strategic vision, and I saw a place where I could apply my experience to make a meaningful impact on students, faculty, and the broader community.'
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TAMUT recently hired Dr. Brandy Eldridge as its inaugural director of The Assembly Line, a new economic and business development hub.
'I'm incredibly passionate about the vision and purpose driving the growth and expansion at Texas A&M University-Texarkana,' Eldridge said. 'It's beyond inspiring to be part of an organization that's not only fostering the next generation of leaders but also taking concrete and exciting steps to enhance our community.
'The Assembly Line project is a prime example of this. It's more than just a business incubator; it's about bringing together people with big dreams and providing them with the resources and support to turn those dreams into reality. This initiative will not only support the growth of new businesses and create a more vibrant economic ecosystem, but it will also offer our graduates and other local talent a compelling reason to stay and build their lives right here in Texarkana. That's a powerful draw!'
According to Eldridge, 'the opportunity to be part of something extraordinary, to contribute to a project that will have a lasting and transformative impact on our workforce and the future of Texarkana,' was a key reason for taking on the new role.
'TAMUT has become a catalyst of innovation, leadership, and regional impact,' the release stated. 'As the university continues its remarkable ascent, one thing is clear: TAMUT is not just growing—it is thriving, leading, and helping to give Texarkana and the surrounding region a brighter, stronger future.'
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