Austin College
Encyclopedia
Austin College is a private
liberal arts college
affiliated by covenant relationship with the Presbyterian Church (USA)
and located in Sherman, Texas
, about 60 miles (about 100 km) North of Dallas.
The undergraduate student body of Austin College is limited to about 1,350. Most students are required to live on campus for the first three years in an attempt to create a close-knit community. Austin College actively promotes various study abroad
programs; 70% of students study abroad during their four years at the college. The college states that it attempts to foster close interaction between students and professors via a 13:1 student to faculty ratio and an average class size of fewer than 25 students. The college has no teaching assistants, so regular faculty teach all levels of coursework.
Chartered in November 1849, it is the oldest college in Texas under original charter and name as recognized by the State Historical Survey Committee
.
by Princeton
-educated missionary Dr. Daniel Baker.
The college moved to Sherman in 1876 and became co-educational in 1918, merging in 1930 with the all female Texas Presbyterian College
.
Baker named the school after Texas historical figure Stephen F. Austin
. Another important figure in Texas history, Sam Houston
, served on the original board of trustees for the school, and the former site in Huntsville later became today's Sam Houston State University
.
On September 20, 1973, musician Jim Croce
died in a plane crash in Natchitoches, Louisiana
on his way to perform the next night at Austin College. Six people perished in the crash.
. Dr. Hass succeeded Dr. Oscar Page.
"Guide to the 331 Most Interesting Colleges". Austin College is also ninth on the U.S. News 2006 list of "most students studying abroad." It is a member of the International 50, a group of the top colleges in the nation for international focus.
in New Mexico
, Washington D.C., Las Vegas
, and New York City
.
Courses are taught on-campus as well. A longstanding policy requires freshmen to spend their first Jan-term on-campus, although some instructors allow exceptions.
A native speaker, always coming from abroad, resides in each section to assist students in their study of the language. The native speaker also holds intermediate and advanced conversation classes for the students. The Jordan House contains a multimedia language laboratory.
Students who live in the house are enrolled in a half-credit course, in addition to another course in the language or literature. Course requirements include meeting several times a week for language table, weekly house meetings with skits, games, and other presentations in the target language, and a variety of other culturally appropriate activities. http://www.austincollege.edu/ViewPage.asp?857
around the country since 1983. Model UN conferences simulate the workings of the United Nations, with delegates assuming the current positions of the countries they represent.
The purpose of the program is to gain skills in leadership, verbal and written communication, teamwork, decision-making, and research. At the National Model U.N. Conference in New York City
, the AC program has earned more than 20 top rankings for Outstanding Delegation. AC has also attended conferences in Chicago
, Washington, DC, Hawaii
, Russia
, and China
.http://www.austincollege.edu/Category.asp?1693
Participating students complete special courses beyond their normal academic workload. These include a freshman introductory leadership course, an internship on leadership in action, a Jan-term course, a second-year course on national and international leadership, and a senior conference on advanced leadership studies.http://www.austincollege.edu/ViewPage.asp?1870
Austin College participates in NCAA
Division III athletics. Previously, Austin College competed in NAIA Division II athletics. Austin College athletes do not receive athletic scholarships and take pride for being true scholar athletes. The football team became known as the "Kangaroos" sometime during the 1914 to 1915 seasons. According to campus legend, the mascot name was derived from a kangaroo court of organized students that would paddle violators of school rules.
Kangaroo varsity teams include football, men and women's soccer, volleyball, men and women's basketball, swimming and diving, tennis, baseball and softball, which was added for the 2006-2007 season. More than 225 student-athletics participate in varsity intercollegiate athletics each year. In 2004-2005, 28 students were recognized with all-conference athletic honors and 61 students received all-conference academic honors. Austin College also has a Lacrosse team, which is run as a club sport.
Austin College joined the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference
on July 1, 2006, replacing Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
. Austin College was previously a member of the American Southwest Conference
, Texas Intercollegiate Athletic Association, and Texas Conference.
has the most wins in school history. The defense is known as "The Redshirts". Defensive players have long used the motto "Redshirt Pride" to remind them of their work ethic. Austin College won the 1981 National Championship when Gene Branum scored on a 57-yard field goal with 1:12 left in the game against Concordia College. Austin College won conference championships in 1920, 1923, 1935, 1979, 1981, 1984, 1985, and 1988. The school's career leading rusher is Mike Maloney (1964–1967). The career passing leader is Jerry Bishop (1962–1965). The leading pass receiver is Otis Amy (1986–1988). The football program boasts more than 130 All-American players during its history. Otis Amy was a three time All-American in 1986, 1987, and 1988. Otis Amy finished his college career as the all time leading NAIA pass receiver. Defensive Back Chris Luper was an All-American 1979, 1980, and 1981. Punter Brent Badger (1991–1994) also was a 3 time All-American selection. In 1993, Badger kicked an 80 yard punt against Nebraska Wesleyan. Charles "Bo" Miller (Class of 1961), Willie Williams (Class of 1977), Chris Luper (Class of 1982), and Gene Branum (Class of 1982) have been inducted into the NAIA Football Hall of Fame. Aaron Kernek (Class of 2001) was the last AC player to play in the NFL. He was a member of the NY Giants and Baltimore Ravens.
Saturday Morning Program (SMP) is an opportunity for Austin College students to become active in the Sherman community. Students participating in this program provide support and encouragement for low-income children ages 6-10 through group recreational, cultural, intellectual, and social activities.
Student Development Board (SDB) is a selected group of student volunteers who provide support both to the Institutional Enrollment and Institutional Advancement Divisions on various projects throughout the year, including serving as host and campus tour guides.
Registered organizations can be sponsored by religious denominations and/or may be affiliated with a national or local organization. Registered organizations are ineligible for Student Activity Fee appropriations and can not use the College name in publicity campaigns or materials.
Any student who meets the qualifications of the specific organization may audition. Auditions for the various organizations are generally held during the first week of the fall term in Craig Hall and are open to all students, regardless of their major. Participating students may elect to register for zero credit. Majors should register for zero credit.
Austin College Jazz Ensemble consists of one full 20-piece Big Band as well as small combos that perform both standard and contemporary literature. Regularly scheduled appearances throughout the year include those on campus and at various area colleges and high schools, providing valuable solo and ensemble performance experience to anyone interested in this medium.
A Cappella Choir is a select group of singers that makes frequent concert appearances and tours; all types of music are included in its repertoire but special emphasis is placed on sacred music. All registration is for S/W only, non-credit.
Chorale provides an opportunity for students to participate in a choral ensemble regardless of past experience and membership ranges from music major to choral novice. The Chorale builds upon the students’ enthusiasm for choral singing and a willingness to develop musical skills. Previous experience is helpful. An audition is required for placement.
Austin College Concert Band is a new large ensemble organized to play the standard concert band repertoire and will perform on and off campus at least once a semester. All percussion, brass, and woodwind players with high school experience are encouraged to audition.
Sherman Symphony Orchestra, sponsored jointly by the College and Sherman Musical Art, Inc., is a volunteer and professional organization of approximately 65 members, which performs works from the standard classical orchestral repertoire.
Private university
Private universities are universities not operated by governments, although many receive public subsidies, especially in the form of tax breaks and public student loans and grants. Depending on their location, private universities may be subject to government regulation. Private universities are...
liberal arts college
Liberal arts colleges in the United States
Liberal arts colleges in the United States are certain undergraduate institutions of higher education in the United States. The Encyclopædia Britannica Concise offers a definition of the liberal arts as a "college or university curriculum aimed at imparting general knowledge and developing general...
affiliated by covenant relationship with the Presbyterian Church (USA)
Presbyterian Church (USA)
The Presbyterian Church , or PC, is a mainline Protestant Christian denomination in the United States. Part of the Reformed tradition, it is the largest Presbyterian denomination in the U.S...
and located in Sherman, Texas
Sherman, Texas
Sherman is a city in and the county seat of Grayson County, Texas, United States. The city's estimated population as of 2009 was 38,407. It is also one of two principal cities in the Sherman-Denison Metropolitan Statistical Area.-History:...
, about 60 miles (about 100 km) North of Dallas.
The undergraduate student body of Austin College is limited to about 1,350. Most students are required to live on campus for the first three years in an attempt to create a close-knit community. Austin College actively promotes various study abroad
Study abroad
Studying abroad is the act of a student pursuing educational opportunities in a country other than one's own. This can include primary, secondary and post-secondary students...
programs; 70% of students study abroad during their four years at the college. The college states that it attempts to foster close interaction between students and professors via a 13:1 student to faculty ratio and an average class size of fewer than 25 students. The college has no teaching assistants, so regular faculty teach all levels of coursework.
Chartered in November 1849, it is the oldest college in Texas under original charter and name as recognized by the State Historical Survey Committee
Texas Historical Commission
The Texas Historical Commission is an agency dedicated to historic preservation within the state of Texas. It administers the National Register of Historic Places for sites in Texas....
.
History
The college was founded on October 13, 1849 in Huntsville, TexasHuntsville, Texas
Huntsville is a city in and the county seat of Walker County, Texas, United States. The population was 35,508 at the 2010 census. It is the center of the Huntsville micropolitan area....
by Princeton
Princeton University
Princeton University is a private research university located in Princeton, New Jersey, United States. The school is one of the eight universities of the Ivy League, and is one of the nine Colonial Colleges founded before the American Revolution....
-educated missionary Dr. Daniel Baker.
The college moved to Sherman in 1876 and became co-educational in 1918, merging in 1930 with the all female Texas Presbyterian College
Texas Presbyterian College
Also known as Texas Presbyterian College for Girls was a woman's college as well as high school in Milford, Texas. The college was opened in 1902 with a donation of $25,000 and of land from the town of Milford....
.
Baker named the school after Texas historical figure Stephen F. Austin
Stephen F. Austin
Stephen Fuller Austin was born in Virginia and raised in southeastern Missouri. He was known as the Father of Texas, led the second, but first legal and ultimately successful colonization of the region by bringing 300 families from the United States. The capital of Texas, Austin in Travis County,...
. Another important figure in Texas history, Sam Houston
Sam Houston
Samuel Houston, known as Sam Houston , was a 19th-century American statesman, politician, and soldier. He was born in Timber Ridge in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, of Scots-Irish descent. Houston became a key figure in the history of Texas and was elected as the first and third President of...
, served on the original board of trustees for the school, and the former site in Huntsville later became today's Sam Houston State University
Sam Houston State University
Sam Houston State University was founded in 1879 and is the third oldest public institution of higher learning in the State of Texas. It is located in Huntsville, Texas. It is one of the oldest purpose-built institutions for the instruction of teachers west of the Mississippi River and the first...
.
On September 20, 1973, musician Jim Croce
Jim Croce
James Joseph "Jim" Croce January 10, 1943 – September 20, 1973 was an American singer-songwriter. Between 1966 and 1973, Croce released five studio albums and 11 singles...
died in a plane crash in Natchitoches, Louisiana
Natchitoches, Louisiana
Natchitoches is a city in and the parish seat of Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana, United States. Established in 1714 by Louis Juchereau de St. Denis as part of French Louisiana, the community was named after the Natchitoches Indian tribe. The City of Natchitoches was first incorporated on February...
on his way to perform the next night at Austin College. Six people perished in the crash.
Administration
Dr. Marjorie Hass became the 15th president of Austin College on July 1, 2009. She previously served as provost of Muhlenberg CollegeMuhlenberg College
Muhlenberg College is a private liberal arts college located in Allentown, Pennsylvania, United States. Founded in 1848, Muhlenberg is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and is named for Henry Melchior Muhlenberg, the patriarch of the Lutheran Church in America.- History...
. Dr. Hass succeeded Dr. Oscar Page.
Rankings
Listed in the U.S. News & World ReportU.S. News & World Report
U.S. News & World Report is an American news magazine published from Washington, D.C. Along with Time and Newsweek it was for many years a leading news weekly, focusing more than its counterparts on political, economic, health and education stories...
"Guide to the 331 Most Interesting Colleges". Austin College is also ninth on the U.S. News 2006 list of "most students studying abroad." It is a member of the International 50, a group of the top colleges in the nation for international focus.
Academics
Austin College offers about 35 majors and pre-professional programs for study, and students can also create a specialized major to match their academic interests. The college is known for its nationally recognized five-year Master of Arts in Teaching program, its pre-medical, international studies, and pre-law programs, which draw many students to the campus. The school also has a music program, and is home to the Austin College A Cappella Choir and the Sherman Symphony Orchestra made up of students and local musicians, and assorted smaller musical ensembles. It also sponsors the Posey Center of Excellence in Leadership, the Center for Environmental Studieshttp://www.austincollege.edu/Category.asp?1450, and the Center for Southwestern and Mexican Studies http://www.austincollege.edu/Category.asp?1968, three specialized programs that give students numerous research and internship opportunities. The school also has active programs in over 40 academic disciplines. The school's student newspaper, the Austin College Observer, is a bi-weekly publication.Communication/Inquiry
Communication/Inquiry is a seminar course taken by freshmen during the fall of their entry year. The professor becomes a mentor for the students in the class over the next four years. C/I serves as the initial course in the undergraduate core curriculum, meant to emphasize the enhancement of core academic skills. Course topics are generally aligned with specialty of the instructors. C/I professors and topics rotate every year.http://www.austincollege.edu/Info.asp?2332Heritage of Western Culture
Heritage of Western Culture, a 3 semester program, was the Austin College core curriculum. Starting in the Fall of 2007, "Heritage" ceased to exist. The purpose of the Heritage classes was to tie together various liberal arts disciplines into an overview of the development of western culture.January Term
January Term is a three-week course taught every January. Students are required to take three Jan-terms during their time at AC, and many use the semester to either take a class in a different area than their regular studies, intensify their study in their designated field, or travel abroad on one of the many travel Jan-terms. Off-campus Jan-terms are an opportunity for those who cannot study abroad during the normal school year to do so. International destinations rotate from year to year. There are also a number of domestic travel locations, such as Ghost RanchGhost Ranch
Ghost Ranch is a retreat and education center located close to the village of Abiquiu in Rio Arriba County in north central New Mexico. The conference center and lodgings at Ghost Ranch are run by the Presbyterian Church but open to the general public.-History:Ghost Ranch is part of Piedra...
in New Mexico
New Mexico
New Mexico is a state located in the southwest and western regions of the United States. New Mexico is also usually considered one of the Mountain States. With a population density of 16 per square mile, New Mexico is the sixth-most sparsely inhabited U.S...
, Washington D.C., Las Vegas
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is the most populous city in the U.S. state of Nevada and is also the county seat of Clark County, Nevada. Las Vegas is an internationally renowned major resort city for gambling, shopping, and fine dining. The city bills itself as The Entertainment Capital of the World, and is famous...
, and New York City
New York City
New York is the most populous city in the United States and the center of the New York Metropolitan Area, one of the most populous metropolitan areas in the world. New York exerts a significant impact upon global commerce, finance, media, art, fashion, research, technology, education, and...
.
Courses are taught on-campus as well. A longstanding policy requires freshmen to spend their first Jan-term on-campus, although some instructors allow exceptions.
Jordan Family Language House
Completed in 1998, the Jordan Family Language House is both a residence hall and a place of study for German, Spanish, French, Chinese and Japanese language and culture. The hall is divided into four sections, one for each language. Each section functions independently, with the number of students varying from Spanish (the largest) to Japanese (the smallest, with a capacity for eight). Students are encouraged to speak in their language of study when in the house.A native speaker, always coming from abroad, resides in each section to assist students in their study of the language. The native speaker also holds intermediate and advanced conversation classes for the students. The Jordan House contains a multimedia language laboratory.
Students who live in the house are enrolled in a half-credit course, in addition to another course in the language or literature. Course requirements include meeting several times a week for language table, weekly house meetings with skits, games, and other presentations in the target language, and a variety of other culturally appropriate activities. http://www.austincollege.edu/ViewPage.asp?857
Model United Nations
Austin College has participated in Model United NationsModel United Nations
Model United Nations is an academic simulation of the United Nations that aims to educate participants about current events, topics in international relations, diplomacy and the United Nations agenda....
around the country since 1983. Model UN conferences simulate the workings of the United Nations, with delegates assuming the current positions of the countries they represent.
The purpose of the program is to gain skills in leadership, verbal and written communication, teamwork, decision-making, and research. At the National Model U.N. Conference in New York City
New York City
New York is the most populous city in the United States and the center of the New York Metropolitan Area, one of the most populous metropolitan areas in the world. New York exerts a significant impact upon global commerce, finance, media, art, fashion, research, technology, education, and...
, the AC program has earned more than 20 top rankings for Outstanding Delegation. AC has also attended conferences in Chicago
Chicago
Chicago is the largest city in the US state of Illinois. With nearly 2.7 million residents, it is the most populous city in the Midwestern United States and the third most populous in the US, after New York City and Los Angeles...
, Washington, DC, Hawaii
Hawaii
Hawaii is the newest of the 50 U.S. states , and is the only U.S. state made up entirely of islands. It is the northernmost island group in Polynesia, occupying most of an archipelago in the central Pacific Ocean, southwest of the continental United States, southeast of Japan, and northeast of...
, Russia
Russia
Russia or , officially known as both Russia and the Russian Federation , is a country in northern Eurasia. It is a federal semi-presidential republic, comprising 83 federal subjects...
, and China
China
Chinese civilization may refer to:* China for more general discussion of the country.* Chinese culture* Greater China, the transnational community of ethnic Chinese.* History of China* Sinosphere, the area historically affected by Chinese culture...
.http://www.austincollege.edu/Category.asp?1693
Posey Leadership Institute
The Austin College Posey Leadership Institute is intended to instruct student leaders in leadership and service. Each fall, 15 entering freshmen and up to five sophomores are selected to participate, based on demonstrated leadership ability and potential. Participants receive a scholarship of around $11,000 a year.Participating students complete special courses beyond their normal academic workload. These include a freshman introductory leadership course, an internship on leadership in action, a Jan-term course, a second-year course on national and international leadership, and a senior conference on advanced leadership studies.http://www.austincollege.edu/ViewPage.asp?1870
Study abroad
Austin College has a strong emphasis on international learning opportunity. A 2009 report by Open Doors Online http://opendoors.iienetwork.org/?p=150651 showed that Austin College sent more than 80% of their students abroad at some point during their undergraduate careers.Athletics
National Collegiate Athletic Association
The National Collegiate Athletic Association is a semi-voluntary association of 1,281 institutions, conferences, organizations and individuals that organizes the athletic programs of many colleges and universities in the United States...
Division III athletics. Previously, Austin College competed in NAIA Division II athletics. Austin College athletes do not receive athletic scholarships and take pride for being true scholar athletes. The football team became known as the "Kangaroos" sometime during the 1914 to 1915 seasons. According to campus legend, the mascot name was derived from a kangaroo court of organized students that would paddle violators of school rules.
Kangaroo varsity teams include football, men and women's soccer, volleyball, men and women's basketball, swimming and diving, tennis, baseball and softball, which was added for the 2006-2007 season. More than 225 student-athletics participate in varsity intercollegiate athletics each year. In 2004-2005, 28 students were recognized with all-conference athletic honors and 61 students received all-conference academic honors. Austin College also has a Lacrosse team, which is run as a club sport.
Austin College joined the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference
Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference
The Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference , founded in 1962, is an athletic conference which competes in the NCAA's Division III. Member institutions are located in Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Texas...
on July 1, 2006, replacing Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
Rose–Hulman Institute of Technology , formerly Rose Polytechnic Institute, is a small private college specializing in teaching engineering, mathematics, and science. RHIT is highly regarded for its undergraduate engineering program, which US News and World Reports ranked in 2011 as No...
. Austin College was previously a member of the American Southwest Conference
American Southwest Conference
The American Southwest Conference is a college athletic conference, founded in 1996, whose member schools compete in the NCAA's Division III. The schools are located in Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas and Mississippi...
, Texas Intercollegiate Athletic Association, and Texas Conference.
Football
The Austin College football program began competition in 1896. Former head coach Mel TjeerdsmaMel Tjeerdsma
Mel Tjeerdsma is a retired American football coach. He served as the head coach at Austin College in Sherman, Texas from 1984 to 1993 and at Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville, Missouri from 1994 until his retirement after the 2010 season. In his 27 years as a head coach, Tjeerdsma...
has the most wins in school history. The defense is known as "The Redshirts". Defensive players have long used the motto "Redshirt Pride" to remind them of their work ethic. Austin College won the 1981 National Championship when Gene Branum scored on a 57-yard field goal with 1:12 left in the game against Concordia College. Austin College won conference championships in 1920, 1923, 1935, 1979, 1981, 1984, 1985, and 1988. The school's career leading rusher is Mike Maloney (1964–1967). The career passing leader is Jerry Bishop (1962–1965). The leading pass receiver is Otis Amy (1986–1988). The football program boasts more than 130 All-American players during its history. Otis Amy was a three time All-American in 1986, 1987, and 1988. Otis Amy finished his college career as the all time leading NAIA pass receiver. Defensive Back Chris Luper was an All-American 1979, 1980, and 1981. Punter Brent Badger (1991–1994) also was a 3 time All-American selection. In 1993, Badger kicked an 80 yard punt against Nebraska Wesleyan. Charles "Bo" Miller (Class of 1961), Willie Williams (Class of 1977), Chris Luper (Class of 1982), and Gene Branum (Class of 1982) have been inducted into the NAIA Football Hall of Fame. Aaron Kernek (Class of 2001) was the last AC player to play in the NFL. He was a member of the NY Giants and Baltimore Ravens.
Service Programs
- ACtivators are a group of students of various church memberships who work with the Director of Church Relations to plan and lead Presbyterian Church youth ministry events throughout the Southwest.
Saturday Morning Program (SMP) is an opportunity for Austin College students to become active in the Sherman community. Students participating in this program provide support and encouragement for low-income children ages 6-10 through group recreational, cultural, intellectual, and social activities.
- Service Station is the central office for coordinating and facilitating community service by Austin College students. Opportunities include Alternative Spring Break program and the Great Day of Service.
Student Development Board (SDB) is a selected group of student volunteers who provide support both to the Institutional Enrollment and Institutional Advancement Divisions on various projects throughout the year, including serving as host and campus tour guides.
Social Programs
Campus Activities Board (CAB) is responsible for planning, promoting and implementing a wide variety of activities on campus for all AC students. Events include bands, comedians, participatory events, a movie series, and a variety of other events.Campus Publications
- Chromascope is the Austin College’s yearbook. It is produced by students and funded by the Student Activity fee.
- Observer is the bi-monthly student newspaper that covers events on campus and around the world.
- Suspension is the Austin College student literary magazine. Produced by students and supported through the English department.
Service Organizations
- Alpha Phi OmegaAlpha Phi OmegaAlpha Phi Omega is the largest collegiate fraternity in the United States, with chapters at over 350 campuses, an active membership of approximately 17,000 students, and over 350,000 alumni members...
(ΑΦῼ) is a national service fraternity. The Phi Xi chapter was founded at Austin College in 1970 to help the College through service projects. Its main purpose is to assemble college students in fellowship, develop leadership, promote friendship, and provide service to humanity. - Circle KCircle KCircle K is an international chain of convenience stores, founded in 1951, in El Paso, Texas, United States. It is owned and operated by the Canadian-based Alimentation Couche-Tard.-Overview:...
is affiliated with the International Kiwanis Club. Members believe in the premise of today’s college student becoming tomorrow’s leader. The group seeks to meet the personal needs of members through the qualities of leadership, the rewards of service, and the unique spirit of friendship. - Habitat for Humanity works to implement the gospel of Jesus Christ at Austin College and elsewhere by working with economically disadvantaged people to help them create a better human habitat in which to live and work.
- RotaractRotaractRotaract originally began as a Rotary International youth programme in 1968 and has now grown into a major Rotary-sponsored organisation of over 8,700 clubs spread around the world and 200,000 + members. It is a service, leadership and community service organisation for young men and women between...
allows students the opportunity to work independently and with rotary clubs to serve the local and global community while gaining a better understanding of the world which we live in.
Spirit Organizations
- Aussies is the dance team formed in 1995 to promote school spirit and provide entertainment during the halftimes of various sporting events.
- Cheerleaders (started in 1927) and the Mascot are integral parts of the athletic program. These hardworking students help rally the crowd during sporting events.
- Pep Band was formed in 1998 to promote school spirit at various college activities, primarily at athletic events.
Social Action
- ACCares is the organization formed to make the Austin College community aware of the impact of AIDS/HIV on their lives and others in the community, encouraging students to be educated and compassionate about AIDS/HIV.
- Amnesty InternationalAmnesty InternationalAmnesty International is an international non-governmental organisation whose stated mission is "to conduct research and generate action to prevent and end grave abuses of human rights, and to demand justice for those whose rights have been violated."Following a publication of Peter Benenson's...
is a worldwide movement that works for releasing all prisoners of conscience and ending tortures and executions. The Austin College chapter strives for equal human rights for all people and works to educate the campus about these issues. - Environmentally Concerned Organization of Students (ECOS) is dedicated to the student and preservation of the environment. ECOS coordinates a campus recycling program, shares information, sponsors Earth Day, and organizes environmentally oriented service projects and activities.
- People Reaffirming identity Differences and Educating (PRiDE) is a group of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and heterosexual students and faculty concerned with providing a safe environment for students, regardless of sexual orientation. The group discusses topics related to harassment against and the rights of gay, lesbian, and bisexual people.
- Peace, Unity, Racial Harmony and Equality of women and men (PURE) fosters spiritual transformation and promotes the oneness of mankind, world peace, race unity, and the equality of women and men. The fact that humanity is one species is at the core of PURE’s programs.
- Women’s Issues, Support and Education (WISE) was organized to provide the Austin College community with a group that provides an awareness of and education in women’s issues.
Cultural
- Asian Student Association (ASA) is an organization that celebrates East and South Asian culture and values, and provides educational programming to the Austin College campus.
- Black Expressions (BE) is an organization the promotes unity and enhances an awareness of the African-American culture for Austin College, as well as the surrounding community.
- Los Amigos is an organization that strives to promote awareness of the Hispanic culture and provide support services for students of Hispanic backgrounds. Los Amigos is also committed to improving relationships with the greater Hispanic community.
- Student International Organization (SIO) is an organization which provides cultural awareness in the Austin College community. It is for International students, students returning from or planning to study abroad, and students interested in other cultures.
- Indian Cultural Association (ICA) celebrates Indian culture and values which includes different religious beliefs, music, food, etc.
- Muslim Student Association (MSA) is an organization that promotes the religion and culture of Islam on the Austin College campus.
Interest
- Biology Interest Group (BIG) is interested in encouraging students to share their enthusiasm for biology, acting as a forum for the discussion of biological topics, providing information about careers and educational opportunities that are available for graduate studies, and promoting interest in the vast field of biology.
- Chemical Society allows students of chemistry, biochemistry, and related fields to become better acquainted, while providing intellectual stimulation and experiences in preparing and presenting material before scientific audiences.
- Classics Club exists for the purpose of promoting interest and awareness of Ancient Greek and Roman cultures among those studying Greek and Latin languages and ancient history.
- English Country Dance Club was formed to teach the community the historical English Country Dance steps celebrated between the 17th and 21st centuries.
- French Club was established to celebrate and learn about the rich culture of France.
- German Club was established to educate and celebrate the German culture amongst the student body.
- International Relations Club (IR) promotes awareness of International cultures through speakers and activities on campus. The club also promotes academic excellence through the Model UN program.
- Lacrosse Club was founded in 1989 to enhance the competitive drive of students interested in lacrosse. The club is open to all students.
- Pre-Law Society is a career-oriented student organization. Speakers of various legal interests are invited to share their expertise and insight about this growing career. Texas Law School Admission personnel, area attorneys, and prominent legally-oriented political figures are common guests.
- Pre-Med Society was organized to provide a support network for the health science students at Austin College.
- Psychology Club is an organization for any person interested in psychology. Discussions and speakers concerning current issues in the field provide opportunities to pursue learning outside the classroom.
- Student Organization of Modern Art (SOMA) provides a healthy outlet for artistic creation for Austin College students.
- Society of Physics Students (SPS) facilitates the understanding of the science of physics while stimulating and promoting an interest in physics among the Austin College community.
- Young Democrats seeks to advance the cause of more responsible and efficient government on the local, state and national level. They promote the ideals of the Democratic Party, unify members of the party on campus, and develop increased involvement and political responsibility of those members.
- Young RepublicansYoung RepublicansThe Young Republicans is an organization for members of the Republican Party of the United States between the ages of 18 and 40. It has both a national organization and chapters in individual states....
seeks to further inform Austin College students of the importance of politics through open, consistent, campus wide political discussion.
Fellowship
- Inter-Varsity Christian Fellowship (IVCF) provides prolonged opportunities for fellowship, while presenting the claims of historical Christianity in an intelligent manner with a vision of worldwide missions.
- Fellowship of Christian AthletesFellowship of Christian AthletesThe Fellowship of Christian Athletes is a non-profit interdenominational Christian organization founded in 1954 and that has been based in Kansas City, Missouri since 1956. It falls within the tradition of Muscular Christianity. Although established by evangelical Protestants, the concept has...
(FCA) strives to share the gospel of Jesus Christ, especially through such activities as singing, sharing, laughing, and fellowship. The group welcomes coaches, athletes, and everyone else who is interested.
Registered organizations can be sponsored by religious denominations and/or may be affiliated with a national or local organization. Registered organizations are ineligible for Student Activity Fee appropriations and can not use the College name in publicity campaigns or materials.
- Baptist Student Ministries (BSM) conducts weekly prayer meetings, worship services in local churches, meetings, and Baptist-related retreats.
- Best Buddies provides opportunities for students to become friends with persons with mental retardation.
- Catholic Student Association (CSA) provides an environment filled with social and spiritual activities in an atmosphere that allows for the well-being of its members in the Catholic faith.
- Canterbury Society meets the fellowship needs, enhances the worship of, and provides service for the Episcopal students at Austin College.
Honor Societies
- Alpha Chi (ΑΧ)
- Alpha Psi OmegaAlpha Psi OmegaAlpha Psi Omega National Theatre Honor Society is an American recognition honor society recognizing participants in collegiate theatre. The Alpha Cast was founded at Fairmont State College on August 12, 1925 by professor Paul F...
(ΑΨΩ) - Beta Beta Beta (ΒΒΒ)
- Delta Phi Alpha (ΔΦΑ)
- Eta Sigma PhiEta Sigma PhiEta Sigma Phi is a College honor society which grew out of a local undergraduate classical club founded by a group of students in the Department of Greek at the University of Chicago in 1914. This organization later united with a similar organization at Northwestern University and became Phi Sigma...
(ΗΣΦ) - Omicron Delta EpsilonOmicron Delta EpsilonOmicron Delta Epsilon is an international honor society in the field of economics. Resulting from the merger of Omicron Delta Gamma and Omicron Chi Epsilon, ODE was founded in 1963 . Its board of trustees includes well-known economists such as Robert Lucas, Kenneth Arrow, and Robert Solow...
(ΟΔΕ) - Phi Beta Kappa (ΦΒΚ)
- Phi Sigma IotaPhi Sigma IotaPhi Sigma Iota, or ΦΣΙ, is an honor society whose members are elected from among outstanding advanced and graduate students of foreign languages and literatures including Classics, Comparative Literature, Philology, Bilingual Education, and Applied Linguistics...
(ΦΣΙ) - Pi Delta PhiPi Delta PhiPi Delta Phi is the French National Honor Society for undergraduate and graduate students at accredited public and private colleges and universities in the United States. The society was admitted to membership in the Association of College Honor Societies in 1967.Pi Delta Phi was founded as a...
(ΠΔΦ) - Pi Gamma MuPi Gamma MuPi Gamma Mu or ΠΓΜ is the oldest and preeminent honor society in the social sciences. It is also the only interdisciplinary social science honor society. It serves the various social science disciplines which seek to understand and explain human behavior and social relationships as well as their...
(ΠΓΜ) - Pi Sigma AlphaPi sigma alphaPi Sigma Alpha , the National Political Science Honor Society, is the only honor society for college and university students of political science in the United States. Its purpose is to recognize and promote high academic achievement in the field of political science...
(ΠΣΑ) - Psi ChiPsi ChiPsi Chi is the International Honor Society in Psychology, founded in 1929 for the purposes of encouraging, stimulating, and maintaining excellence in scholarship, and advancing the science of psychology. With over 1,050 chapters, Psi Chi is one of the largest honor societies in the United States...
(ΨΧ) - Sigma Delta PiSigma Delta PiSigma Delta Pi, the National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society , was established on November 14, 1919, at the University of California at Berkeley. Its insignia is the royal seal of Fernando and Isabel, representing Castille, León and Aragón...
(ΣΔΠ) - Sigma Pi SigmaSigma Pi SigmaSigma Pi Sigma is the National Physics Honor Society. It strives to promote physics at all stages, to promote fraternity between those who excel at physics, and to promote service among its members. It is closely associated with the Society of Physics Students .- External links :*...
(ΣΠΣ)
Any student who meets the qualifications of the specific organization may audition. Auditions for the various organizations are generally held during the first week of the fall term in Craig Hall and are open to all students, regardless of their major. Participating students may elect to register for zero credit. Majors should register for zero credit.
Music
Woodwind, Brass, and String Ensembles consist of performing groups ranging in size from three to ten players which specialize in chamber music from Baroque through contemporary periods. The standard, as well as lesser-known works for each medium are covered, stressing ensemble techniques and performance practices appropriate for the period under consideration. Several on-campus and off-campus recitals are given each year, including guest appearances at other colleges and universities.Austin College Jazz Ensemble consists of one full 20-piece Big Band as well as small combos that perform both standard and contemporary literature. Regularly scheduled appearances throughout the year include those on campus and at various area colleges and high schools, providing valuable solo and ensemble performance experience to anyone interested in this medium.
A Cappella Choir is a select group of singers that makes frequent concert appearances and tours; all types of music are included in its repertoire but special emphasis is placed on sacred music. All registration is for S/W only, non-credit.
Chorale provides an opportunity for students to participate in a choral ensemble regardless of past experience and membership ranges from music major to choral novice. The Chorale builds upon the students’ enthusiasm for choral singing and a willingness to develop musical skills. Previous experience is helpful. An audition is required for placement.
Austin College Concert Band is a new large ensemble organized to play the standard concert band repertoire and will perform on and off campus at least once a semester. All percussion, brass, and woodwind players with high school experience are encouraged to audition.
Sherman Symphony Orchestra, sponsored jointly by the College and Sherman Musical Art, Inc., is a volunteer and professional organization of approximately 65 members, which performs works from the standard classical orchestral repertoire.
Notable faculty
- Light Townsend CumminsLight Townsend CumminsLight Townsend Cummins, born 1946, is an educator and historian. He is the Bryan Professor of History at Austin College in Sherman, Texas and is also the official State Historian of Texas.-Education:...
, (State Historian of Texas, Texas history author) - George DiggsGeorge DiggsGeorge M. Diggs, Jr. holds a Ph. D. in Biology from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. He is Professor of Biology at Austin College in Sherman, Texas...
, (Biologist, Texas flora) - Jerry B. LincecumJerry B. LincecumJerry Bryan Lincecum is Emeritus Professor of English at Austin College in Sherman, Texas. He is a folklorist and specialist in Texas and Southwestern literature....
, ((English, Texas folklore author) - Shelton WilliamsShelton WilliamsShelton Williams, a native of Odessa, Texas, is Professor Emeritus of Political Science and International Studies at Austin College in Sherman, Texas. He is also the President of the Osgood Center for International Studies in Washington, D.C. Williams is a specialist in issues relating to nuclear...
, (Political Science/International Studies, government consultant) - Mark S. SmithMark S. SmithMark Stratton John Matthew Smith is an American professor and Biblical scholar who currently holds the Skirball Chair of Bible and Ancient Near Eastern Studies in the Department of Hebrew and Judaic Studies at New York University....
, (Art, painting)
Notable alumni
- Marshall ApplewhiteMarshall ApplewhiteMarshall Herff Applewhite, Jr. , known among his followers as "Do", was the leader of the Heaven's Gate religious group. A self-proclaimed prophet and messiah, he died in the group's mass suicide of 1997.-Early life:...
, Leader of the Heaven's Gate religious cult. - Gene BabbGene BabbGene Walter Babb is a former American football fullback and linebacker in the National Football League for the San Francisco 49ers and the Dallas Cowboys. He also played in the American Football League for the Houston Oilers in 1962 and 1963...
, President, National Football Scouting Inc.; former player for the Dallas CowboysDallas CowboysThe Dallas Cowboys are a professional American football franchise which plays in the Eastern Division of the National Football Conference of the National Football League . They are headquartered in Valley Ranch in Irving, Texas, a suburb of Dallas...
, Houston Oilers, and San Francisco 49ersSan Francisco 49ersThe San Francisco 49ers are a professional American football team based in San Francisco, California, playing in the West Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The team was founded in 1946 as a charter member of the All-America Football Conference and... - Byron BostonByron BostonByron Boston is an American football official in the National Football League since the 1995 NFL season. He is a line judge and wears the uniform number 18...
, a football official in the National Football LeagueNational Football LeagueThe National Football League is the highest level of professional American football in the United States, and is considered the top professional American football league in the world. It was formed by eleven teams in 1920 as the American Professional Football Association, with the league changing... - George C. ButteGeorge C. ButteGeorge Charles Butte was a jurist, educator, and Republican politician from the U.S. state of Texas, who was his party's gubernatorial nominee in 1924 against the controversial Democrat Miriam Wallace "Ma" Ferguson, one of the first two women governors in the United States.U.S...
, American jurist and Texas politician - Larry FedoraLarry Fedora-References:...
, Head Football Coach at University of Southern Mississippi - Ron KirkRon KirkRonald "Ron" Kirk is the 16th United States Trade Representative, serving in the Obama administration. He served as mayor of Dallas, Texas from 1995 to 2002; he also ran for the United States Senate in 2002.-Early life and career:...
, Former Mayor of Dallas and current United States Trade Representative - Candace KitaCandace KitaCandace Kita real name Candace Bender, is a Japanese-American actress and former fashion model, who has appeared in roles in TV shows such as Complete Savages, Two and a Half Men, According to Jim, and Ugly Betty.-Acting:...
, Actress - Joshua KowertJoshua KowertJoshua Kowert is a Republican political activist from Sherman, Texas, who has in 2008 and 2010 unsuccessfully opposed the veteran Democrat-turned-Republican U.S. Representative Ralph Hall of Rockwall in the race for Texas's 4th congressional district.-Early life and education:Kowert was born in...
, Republican political activist - Ray MorehartRay MorehartRaymond Anderson Morehart was an American major league baseball player.Born in Terrell, Texas, Morehart attended Austin College and played two seasons for the Chicago White Sox before being traded for infielder Aaron Ward in January 1927; Morehart was therefore a member of the 1927 New York...
, baseball player, Chicago White SoxChicago White SoxThe Chicago White Sox are a Major League Baseball team located in Chicago, Illinois.The White Sox play in the American League's Central Division. Since , the White Sox have played in U.S. Cellular Field, which was originally called New Comiskey Park and nicknamed The Cell by local fans...
, New York YankeesNew York YankeesThe New York Yankees are a professional baseball team based in the The Bronx, New York. They compete in Major League Baseball in the American League's East Division...
, played with Babe RuthBabe RuthGeorge Herman Ruth, Jr. , best known as "Babe" Ruth and nicknamed "the Bambino" and "the Sultan of Swat", was an American Major League baseball player from 1914–1935...
and Lou GehrigLou GehrigHenry Louis "Lou" Gehrig , nicknamed "The Iron Horse" for his durability, was an American Major League Baseball first baseman. He played his entire 17-year baseball career for the New York Yankees . Gehrig set several major league records. He holds the record for most career grand slams... - Carroll PickettCarroll PickettReverend Carroll L. "Bud" Pickett is a Presbyterian minister in Huntsville, Texas. In the 1960s and 1970s, Rev. Pickett served as pastor for three churches in Texas. In 1980 he began serving as a chaplain in the Huntsville, Texas, prison, where he spent most of the next 15 years working with...
, Presbyterian minister, author, and advocate against the death penalty