Serving those who serve

MSU Texas Public Information
06 August 2024

Education Policy and Law Student Life General

University garners support for Military Education Center initiative

MSU Texas Public Information
06 August 2024
3 min read

The Wichita Falls City Council approved funding of up to $2 million to support Midwestern State University’s proposed student success initiative anchored by a Military Education Center at its regular meeting Tuesday, August 6. Both the Wichita Falls Economic Development Corporation (4A) and the Wichita Falls B (4B) Sales Tax Corporation brought forth resolutions to commit $1 million each to help fund the initiative. With commitments from the J.S. Bridwell Foundation, Bryant Edwards Foundation, Inc., The Fain Foundation, James N. McCoy Foundation, and the City of Wichita Falls, MSU Texas has raised $4 million toward the project with another $750,000 toward military scholarships.

“Midwestern State University is grateful for the collective support of Sheppard Air Force Base, the City of Wichita Falls, the Wichita Falls Chamber of Commerce, and generous local donors to develop this initiative,” said Stacia L. Haynie, MSU Texas President. “Over the past year, we have worked to strengthen and expand our partnership with Sheppard Air Force Base so that we may better serve those who serve. From the moment they arrive at Sheppard Air Force to the time they depart, we want to be the premiere educational partner to help them achieve their educational and professional goals while also supporting their military mission.”

The Military Education Center builds upon an existing program for first-year undergraduate students that has yielded significant outcomes in retention and graduation rates.

Haynie describes the initiative as a force multiplier that will bolster support for Sheppard AFB and provide invaluable assistance to active-duty military personnel as they advance their careers. “The guidance from Sheppard leadership in this initiative has been invaluable, as they have strongly advocated to extend support to their families,” she said.

“Midwestern State’s vision of how to provide educational support to our active duty members, their families and our veterans is inspiring, and we’re excited to see this project develop,” Col. Paul Filcek, 82nd Training Wing and Sheppard Installation Commander.

Bridwell Activities Center from outside — Bridwell Activities Center at Midwestern State University.

“The long history of community support and partnership between Sheppard and Wichita Falls is well known throughout the Air Force, and this is one more example of what makes this place so special.”

At the heart of the Center will be a comprehensive support network comprised of staff members of various departments to address the unique needs of military-affiliated students and their families.

“This is a result of a partnership of fully committed leaders who are meeting the needs of our community and Sheppard Air Force Base,” said Ron Kitchens, CEO of the Wichita Falls Chamber of Commerce. “This is a recommitment to our retirees, and military service members and the Air Force. We want you to come to Wichita Falls knowing that you can accelerate your career.”

Wichita Falls Mayor Tim Short reiterated the importance of community partners working closely together for the benefit of Sheppard AFB and Wichita Falls. “This work is important to our city, MSU Texas, and Sheppard Air Force Base. An investment of this size is certainly warranted for military members, veterans, and their families. We want to strengthen the ties of Wichita Falls and Sheppard Air Force Base so that they know that this is not only a great place to serve and work ̶ but also a great place to come back to and experience all our city has to offer.”

While plans are underway to begin the establishment of the center, MSU Texas is offering scholarships to active-duty military, spouses, and dependents as early as this semester. Current and prospective military-affiliated students are encouraged to contact MSU Texas Admissions Counselor CJ Miles at chantin.miles@msutexas.edu or 940-397-4118 for more information regarding military scholarships.