Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls would become part of the Texas Tech University system under legislation by State Reps. Tan Parker and James Frank.
“For almost 100 years, [Midwestern State University] has provided excellent academic growth for Texans in Wichita Falls and beyond,” Parker said. “ Now, with the addition of the MSU Flower Mound satellite campus which has benefited those seeking educational opportunities, a collaborative partnership has developed.”
HB 1522 would “formalize the process for the university to become the fifth member of the Texas Tech University System.” Parker said.
Midwestern began exploring the possibility of joining the Texas Tech University system more than a year ago its president, Suzanne Shipley, said on the university’s social media page.
“Little did we know at the time that just one month later, our world would be thrust into a pandemic that would shift our normal operations and alter our plans,” Shipley said. “However, our exploration and deliberations continued and, given our established timeline, we were able to accomplish much in the weeks leading up to spring break and our abrupt transition to remote operations.”
The MSU Board of Regents approved the merger in May 2020 and the university is now awaiting passed of HB 1522.
“Another vital component in the transition will be the matter of our accreditation,” Shipley said.
MSU will seek approval from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to transfer its accreditation when the merger takes place.
“There is much work to be done as we survey the opportunities of 2021, and it may all seem a bit overwhelming, especially as we continue to navigate through what is hopefully the last stages of the pandemic,” Shipley said. “But as I have expressed to you before we will continue to do as we have done for the past year and take things one step at a time. Thank you for your commitment and your patience as we take this historic next step for Midwestern State University.”