TIAER

Merge mingles College and Institute

Tarleton State University— For Immediate Release

Febuary 16, 2010

Stephenville, Texas - The Texas Institute for Applied Environmental Research (TIAER) is joining forces with Tarleton State University's College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (COAES). The realignment is part of a strategic step to broaden the academic and research mission of the university.

"The fusion of COAES and TIAER will provide a new research direction within the college," explained Tarleton President F. Dominic Dottavio, Ph.D., who officially announced the merger. "In addition, the environmental research staff within the Institute will help fulfill the expanded academic mission of the COAES.  This partnership will benefit students, faculty and research staff."

The merger was facilitated by the renaming of the College of Agricultural and Human Sciences to the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at the last meeting of the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents. This action was designed to help ease the enlarged scope of activities in agricultural and environmental studies.

"This opportunity will allow us to continue to fulfill a vital research agenda while providing a component in the academic success of the university," said Dan Hunter, the executive director of TIAER. "I am honored to become a part of such a highly respected agriculture program that now encompasses an expanded mission of environmental studies."

As Tarleton moves toward the goal of offering a doctoral degree through the COAES, the new affiliation will bring an additional environmental research component. The College will aid academic appointments across the campus for TIAER staff, and the Institute will assist with the expanded research opportunities within the COAES.

"This is an exciting opportunity for both the internal and external constituents we serve," said Don Cawthon, Ph.D., dean of COAES. "The college is currently undergoing a strategic visioning process that will re-shape many of our programs and enhance our relevance to today's students and clientele. Having TIAER join us will make many of our dreams possible."

The merger will become official on March 1, 2010.