The Spring Football League ( SFL ) was a short lived professional american football minor league that existed for only one season in 2000.
114-559: Founded by several ex-NFL players such as Eric Dickerson , Drew Pearson , Bo Jackson , and Tony Dorsett , the SFL planned to use the four-game mini-season (dubbed "Festival 2000") to test cities, fans, stadiums, the media, entertainment, and springtime American football as a product. The year before, the Regional Football League staggered through a spring season, then announced it would not return for 2000. In late 1999,
228-586: A Boer goat , pigs, a cat, a deer, and a horse. In 2016, the animal-rights group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) targeted the university and alleged abusive experiments on dogs. According to Texas A&M, the dogs in question were given several experimental treatments to improve or cure a genetic condition that also affects humans. During this period, the dogs were under the care of board-certified veterinarians and other highly trained staff with oversight from multiple agencies including
342-477: A National Public Radio affiliate since 1977, and the student-run station KANM , which bills itself "the college station of College Station". W5AC , a student-run amateur radio club, broadcast the first live, play-by-play broadcast of a college football game at Kyle Field in November 1921. Texas A&M culture is a product of the university's founding as a rural military and agricultural school. Although
456-630: A Rough Collie , lives with her handlers in the Corps in the Quad. Texas A&M is one of six United States senior military colleges . As of 2019, the university's Corps of Cadets (or the Corps), with more than 2,500 members, is the largest uniformed student body outside the service academies . Many members participate in Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs and earn commissions in
570-679: A $ 6 million marine biology center in Haifa , Israel, in 2016. As of 2020, approximately 20% of the Texas A&;M student body lived on campus, primarily in one of two distinct housing sections located on opposite ends of the campus. Both the Northside and Southside areas contain student residence halls. Some halls are single-sex. Several halls include a "substance-free" floor whose residents pledge to refrain from bringing alcoholic beverages , recreational drugs , or tobacco products into
684-417: A cameo appearance in the television series Hawaii Five-0 in 2014. In August 2016, he began hosting a two-hour Monday afternoon program on Los Angeles sports-talk station KLAC . In 2017, he competed in the reality television game show The New Celebrity Apprentice . He was the third contestant "terminated" by host Arnold Schwarzenegger . In 2019, Dickerson played a role as LAFD Chief Brinkle in
798-462: A full-time, volunteer Cadet Corps whose members study alongside civilian undergraduate students. About one-fifth of the student body lives on campus. Texas A&M has more than 1,000 officially recognized student organizations. Many students observe university traditions that govern conduct in daily life and sporting events. The university's students, alumni, and sports teams are known as Aggies , and its athletes compete in eighteen varsity sports as
912-593: A game against Kansas City . That year, he led the team in rushing attempts and yards. However, he suffered from splitting carries with Marcus Allen by having the latter finish the second half. The following season, Dickerson was traded to the Atlanta Falcons on July 7, 1993, for a sixth-round draft pick. He played in a backup role, making his final national televised appearance during the Monday Night Football game on September 27, 1993, when
1026-590: A higher proportion than that of any other American college or university. In early September 1918, the entire senior class enlisted, and there were plans to send the younger students at staggered dates throughout the next year. Many of the seniors were fighting in France when the war ended two months later. More than 1,200 alumni served as commissioned officers. After the war, Texas A&M grew rapidly and became nationally recognized for its programs in agriculture, engineering, and military science. The first graduate school
1140-667: A member of the Association of American Universities . The university was the first public higher education institution in Texas; it opened for classes on October 4, 1876, as the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas (A.M.C.) under the provisions of the 1862 Morrill Land-Grant Act . In the following decades, the college grew in size and scope, expanding to its largest enrollment during WWII before its first significant stagnation in enrollment post-war. Enrollment grew again in
1254-547: A member of the Southeastern Conference . In 1862, the U.S. Congress passed the Morrill Act , which auctioned land grants of public lands to establish endowments for colleges at which the "leading object shall be, without excluding other scientific and classical studies and including military tactics, to teach such branches of learning as are related to agriculture and mechanical arts ... to promote
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#17327838443841368-520: A misunderstanding and that Dickerson had not been placed on waivers. Dickerson retired as the second leading rusher of all time after failing a physical with the Packers. On August 29, 2017, Dickerson signed a one-day contract to officially retire as a member of the Los Angeles Rams . Dickerson became the seventh back to gain more than 10,000 yards and the fastest ever to do so, reaching
1482-403: A new NFL record with seven straight seasons of more than 1,000 yards rushing, and led the league for four of those seasons. With the retirement of Tony Dorsett at the end of 1988, he became the leader among active players in career rushing yards, a position he occupied until his own retirement in 1993. However, injuries, further contract disputes, and suspensions clouded his final two seasons with
1596-424: A portfolio of over 2,600 inventions. On average, Texas A&M files over 50 patents and closes 25 license agreements per year. Texas A&M has led the world in several fields of cloning research. Scientists at the university's College of Veterinary Medicine created the first cloned pet, a cat named 'cc', on December 22, 2001. Texas A&M was also the first academic institution to clone six species; cattle,
1710-467: A pronounced effort to attract both African-Americans and Latino fans, and innovative use of wireless communication. SFL coaches of note: The Spring Football League suffered from a distinct lack of media attention: newspaper coverage was spotty at best, and the SFL had no radio or TV contracts (although some games were apparently carried on the internet). Attendance was disastrously low, despite some very competitive contests; only 1,100 people showed up at
1824-548: A return on investment. As of 2015, Texas A&M was rated the second-best university for veterans in USA Today and ninth for "business schools for veterans" by the Military Times . The Texas A&M University System has an endowment valued at more than $ 19.2 billion; the second highest among U.S. public universities and seventh overall. Apart from revenue received from tuition and research grants, as part of
1938-662: A sideline reporter on Monday Night Football broadcasts for ABC during the 2000 and 2001 NFL seasons. During the 2007 football season and 2016 football season , Dickerson worked as a broadcaster for KCBS television in Los Angeles , providing commentary for NFL pregame and postgame shows. He started a sports memorabilia company called Original Mini Jerseys with former Los Angeles Rams teammate LeRoy Irvin. The company received their NFL license in 2006 and sells authentic miniature replica jerseys. He also owns an internet-based sporting goods company, E Champs. Dickerson made
2052-529: A student-run safe ride program , has provided over 250,000 free rides (as of 2016 ) to students who are unable to transport themselves home. Its organizers help other universities establish similar programs. In 2009, GLBT Aggies , formerly Gay Student Services (GSS), successfully sued the university for official recognition and the Fifth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled the U.S. Constitution requires public universities to allow such student organizations under
2166-556: A three-team deal, the Colts traded linebacker Cornelius Bennett , whom they drafted but were unable to sign to a contract, to the Buffalo Bills for their first-round pick in 1988, first- and second-round picks in 1989, and running back Greg Bell . The Colts in turn traded Bell and the three draft choices from Buffalo plus their own first- and second-round picks in 1988, their second-round pick in 1989, and running back Owen Gill to
2280-417: Is State Highway 6 , and several smaller state highways and Farm to Market Roads connect the area to larger highways such as Interstate 45 . The College Station campus is bisected by a railroad track operated by Union Pacific . The area east of the tracks, known as main campus, includes buildings for the colleges of engineering, architecture, geosciences, science, education, and liberal arts. Dormitories,
2394-699: Is an American former professional football running back who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 11 seasons. Dickerson played college football for the Mustangs of Southern Methodist University and was recognized as an All-American . He was selected second overall in the 1983 NFL draft by the Los Angeles Rams , and later played for the Indianapolis Colts , Los Angeles Raiders , and Atlanta Falcons . During his NFL career, he rushed for over 13,000 yards. He holds
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#17327838443842508-592: Is dedicated to marine research and hosts the Texas A&;M Maritime Academy ; Texas A&M University Higher Education Center at McAllen is dedicated to engineering, biomedical science, public health, and food systems industry management; and Texas A&M University at Qatar (TAMUQ) in Education City , Al Rayyan , Qatar , is dedicated to engineering disciplines. Texas A&M Health maintains several other Health Science Centers and campuses away from
2622-596: Is located in Fort Worth . Texas A&M maintains the RELLIS Campus , formerly the Texas A&M University-Riverside Campus and Bryan Air Force Base, which was transferred from the university to become a separate entity within the Texas A&M University System in September 2015. Texas A&M is part of the Texas A&M University System, which consists of eleven universities, eight state agencies, and
2736-749: Is not based upon his service in the Confederate Army. Amid the Black Lives Matter movement and vandalism of the statue, attempts in 2020 by a group of students and activists to secure its removal were rebuffed by the university's administration, other students and alumni, and counter-protestors. The university also confirmed that the removal of the statue would require Texas Congressional approval. In 2022, university president M. Katherine Banks implemented university-wide administrative restructuring that involved several changes to academic unit names and branding. The College of Science ,
2850-556: Is part of the Bryan-College Station metropolitan area of Brazos County , which is located in the Brazos Valley (Southeast Central Texas) region, an area often referred to as "Aggieland". Brazos Valley is centrally located within 200 miles (320 km) of three of the ten largest cities in the U.S. and 75% of the population of Texas and Louisiana —approximately 13 million people. The area's major roadway
2964-483: Is scheduled for 2025—it will be the largest optical telescope ever constructed with seven mirrors, each with a diameter of 8.4 meters (9.2 yd), the equivalent of a mirror 24.5 meters (26.8 yd) across and ten times more powerful than the Hubble Space Telescope . As part of a collaboration with the U.S. Department of Energy 's National Nuclear Security Administration , Texas A&M completed
3078-684: Is selected by and reports to the chancellor. The provost is responsible for all educational and service activities of the university, and reports to the president. The cabinet, as the institution's administrative arm, and the deans of the respective colleges, also report to the president. The university and colleges are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and associated professional organizations offering degrees in 130 courses of study, over 260 professional and graduate degrees via its 17 colleges, and further opportunities in 21 research centers and institutes. As of
3192-590: Is the mother of the current emir Sheikha Moza bint Nasser , Texas A&M University at Qatar was set up through an agreement between Texas A&M and the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science, and Community Development and continues its part of Qatar's efforts to expand higher education with the assistance of elite institutions from the United States. All degrees at the Qatar campus are granted by
3306-435: Is wearing an Aggie Ring , whose design has been relatively unchanged since its introduction in 1894. Although not sanctioned by the university, many students "dunk" their newly acquired Aggie Rings into a pitcher of beer and drink the entire pitcher in seconds. Texas A&M students have created two major traditions to honor deceased former students. The Aggie Muster is a ceremony of remembrance held annually on April 21,
3420-578: The College of Geosciences , and the College of Liberal Arts, were merged to form the Texas A&M University College of Arts & Sciences. Several academic units underwent a change in name from "college" to "school". Additionally, the Texas A&M pharmacy unit was renamed the Texas A&M University Irma Lerma Rangel School of Pharmacy . The following year, Banks suddenly resigned in July, only days after
3534-539: The Electronics Training Program , which would train Navy personnel to maintain new radar systems. During the war, 29 Texas A&M graduates reached the rank of general . After the end of World War II, enrollment rapidly grew as many former soldiers used the G.I. Bill to fund their education; however, enrollment stagnated in the following decade. In 1948, the state legislature established
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3648-495: The First Amendment 's "freedom to assemble" clause. The university newspaper The Battalion has been in production since 1893. The ''Aggieland'' , formerly known as ''The Olio'' and ''The Longhorn'' , is one of America 's largest college yearbooks in number of pages and copies sold. As of 2007, the university houses three public broadcasting stations: KAMU-TV , a PBS member station since 1970; KAMU-FM ,
3762-544: The George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum —one of fifteen American presidential libraries operated by the National Archives and Records Administration . Former U.S. President George H.W. Bush remained actively involved with the university, frequently visiting the campus and participating in special events until his death in 2018. He was buried on campus. With strong support from Rice University and
3876-654: The Heisman Trophy voting, behind Herschel Walker and John Elway . He was also a first-team All-American in 1982 and a second-team All-American in 1981 . Before the 1983 NFL draft , the Houston Oilers said they would draft Dickerson second if they did not make a trade. Dickerson's family opposed him playing for the Oilers — although Dickerson himself was merely cool about doing so — while, like John Elway Dickerson would have flatly refused to play for
3990-686: The National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Muscular Dystrophy Association . The university is also engaged in significant scientific exploration projects. In 2004, as part of its responsibilities under the space grant program, it joined a consortium of universities and countries to build the Giant Magellan Telescope in Chile. Construction began in November 2015; on its completion—which
4104-722: The Texas Transportation Institute , the Cyclotron Institute, the Institute of Biosciences and Technology, and the Institute for Plant Genomics and Biotechnology. Texas A&M University is a member of the SEC Academic Consortium . Texas A&M works with state and university agencies on local and international research projects to develop innovations in science and technology that can have commercial applications. In 2006,
4218-560: The United States Armed Forces upon graduation. Members of the Corps have served in every armed conflict fought by the United States since 1876, and over 285 alumni have served as generals or flag officers as of 2021. Until 1965, Corps membership was mandatory. The Corps began accepting female members in the fall semester of 1974. The Corps of Cadets is composed of four major units, the Air Force Wing,
4332-442: The 17th-best public university in the country and 50th overall. After conducting a survey of leading employment recruiters, The Wall Street Journal ranked Texas A&M second nationally as "most likely to help students land a job in key careers and professions" and the 83rd-best college overall. As of 2017, according to Best Value Schools , Texas A&M graded first in nation as the best college for military veterans, based on
4446-520: The 1960s under the leadership of President James Earl Rudder , during whose tenure, the college desegregated, became coeducational, and ended the requirement for participation in the Corps of Cadets . In 1963, to reflect the institution's expanded roles and academic offerings, the Texas Legislature renamed the college Texas A&M University; the letters "A&M" were retained as a tribute to
4560-422: The 58th Legislature of Texas approved Rudder's proposal for a substantial expansion of the college. Over the coming years, Texas A&M augmented and upgraded its physical plant and facilities, and diversified and expanded its student body by admitting women and minorities. Membership in the Corps of Cadets also became voluntary from the start of the fall semester of 1963. Initially, the decision to admit women made
4674-484: The Aggie Spirit, a strong sense of loyalty and respect for the university. They dictate many aspects of student life, including greeting others using the official school greeting of "Howdy!", personal conduct at university sporting events, and students' word choices in conversation. A visible designation tradition among senior undergraduates, graduate students nearing the end of their programs, and former students
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4788-786: The Army Brigade, the Navy/Marine Regiment, and the Fightin' Texas Aggie Band , whose members may be affiliated with any military branch. Parson's Mounted Cavalry is the only mounted ROTC unit in the United States. The Ross Volunteer Company, one of the oldest student-run organizations in the state, is the official honor guard for the Governor of Texas. The Fish Drill Team , a precision, close-order rifle drill team composed entirely of Corps freshmen, represents Texas A&M in local and national competitions. The team have won
4902-894: The Baltimore Colts had they drafted him. A trade with the Oilers saw the Los Angeles Rams acquire the second pick, which they used to draft Dickerson. Although he considered going to the Los Angeles Express in the United States Football League , Dickerson ultimately decided to play for the Rams. An immediate success, he established rookie records for most rushing attempts (390), most rushing yards gained (1,808) and most touchdowns rushing (18), including another two receiving touchdowns. His efforts earned him All-Pro, Pro Bowl , Player of
5016-880: The Bryan-College Station campus. The School of Engineering Medicine (EnMed), at the Houston Methodist Hospital , and the Texas A&M Institute of Biosciences and Technology , are both located in the Texas Medical Center in Houston . The School of Dentistry is located in Dallas , and the institution has a presence in Corpus Christi , Kingsville , Lufkin , McAllen, Round Rock , and Temple . Texas A&M School of Law, formerly Texas Wesleyan University School of Law,
5130-404: The Colts in 1986 following Rod Dowhower 's firing. Although he played in just nine games with the Colts that year, he still managed to gain 1,011 yards to finish the season with 1,288. Also, he spearheaded a late season Colts run that helped the team to their first winning season (and first playoff berth) in 10 years. In 1988 , Dickerson, with 1,659 yards rushing, became the first Colt to lead
5244-572: The Colts. Dickerson, at 29, was the highest-paid running back in the NFL, receiving an annual reported salary of $ 1.4 million. Following prolonged contract disputes, the Colts placed him on the inactive list before the start of the 1990 season where he stayed for 7 weeks and lost more than $ 600,000 in salary. In his sixth game back from suspension, he rushed for 143 yards against the Bengals on 22 carries—this effort lifted him past Jim Brown to third place on
5358-625: The Falcons hosted the Pittsburgh Steelers in a losing effort. The Falcons traded Dickerson and third-year cornerback Bruce Pickens to the Green Bay Packers for running back John Stephens on October 13, 1993. The trade came a week after Dickerson said he had been told that the Falcons were waiving him because Coach Jerry Glanville wanted to use younger players. The next day, Falcons officials said that there had been
5472-424: The NFL career rushing list behind Walter Payton and Tony Dorsett . He was again suspended in November 1991, and amidst injuries and age, managed to run for only 536 yards that season. The Colts finished the year bottoming out with a 1–15 record. Dickerson has described the trade to Indianapolis as the worst moment of his career, and stated that he disliked his time with the Colts. On April 26, 1992 , Dickerson
5586-463: The NFL expanded the regular season from 14 to 16 games in 1978, Dickerson had the benefit of playing in two additional games. No one has since rushed for more yards in a single NFL season. Dickerson's 5.6 yards per carry led the Rams to a playoff berth in 1984. Although he rushed for 1,234 yards in 1985 while missing the first two games due to a contract dispute, Dickerson missed the Pro Bowl for
5700-672: The NFL's single-season rushing record with 2,105 yards, set in 1984. Dickerson was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1999 and, in 2019, was named to the NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team . He is widely regarded as one of the greatest running backs of all time. He wore prescription goggles throughout his career due to myopia . Dickerson committed to Texas A&M before reconsidering and deciding amongst Oklahoma , Southern California and Southern Methodist University (SMU). His great-great aunt talked him into staying in
5814-515: The Quadrangle, known as "The Quad" , an area consisting of dormitories, Duncan Dining Hall, and the Corps training fields. The Corps Arches, a series of twelve arches that allude to the spirit of the 12th Man , mark the entrance to the Quadrangle. All cadets, except those who are married or who have had previous military service, must live in the Quad with assigned roommates from the same unit and graduating class. The Aggie mascot Reveille ,
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#17327838443845928-566: The RELLIS Campus. The system is governed by a ten-member Board of Regents , nine of whom are appointed by the Governor of Texas to six-year terms, and one non-voting Student Regent who is appointed to a one-year term. The Chancellor of the Texas A&M University System is responsible for day-to-day operations and is answerable to the Board of Regents. The university is led by the university president, who has executive responsibility, and
6042-460: The Rams for Dickerson. With the picks the Rams took running back Gaston Green , wide receiver Aaron Cox , linebacker Fred Strickland , running back Cleveland Gary , linebacker Frank Stams , and defensive back Darryl Henley . The trade reunited Dickerson with Ron Meyer , who had left SMU after Dickerson's junior season to take the head coaching position in New England and who was hired by
6156-474: The SFL announced an inaugural season of 2000, with ten individually-owned teams playing a 12-week schedule, followed by a championship game during Memorial Day weekend. Mark Rice, chairman of the SFL board of governors, placed eight of the franchises in Birmingham ; Canton, Ohio ; Houston ; Jackson, Mississippi ; Los Angeles ; Miami ; San Antonio and Washington, D.C. On March 1, 2000, the SFL announced
6270-731: The SFL would return was scotched by the tech-market crash of 2000 and the subsequent announcement of the XFL by the WWF . The last professional football game played at the Miami Orange Bowl was an SFL game: a crowd estimated at "less than a thousand" watched on April 29, 2000 as the San Antonio Matadors defeated the Miami Tropics, 16-14. Eric Dickerson Eric Demetric Dickerson (born September 2, 1960)
6384-420: The TV Series S.W.A.T. . In 2017, he joined Fox Sports ' FS1 as an NFL analyst. In 2023, Dickerson attended the fifth dinner service in Hell's Kitchen ' s 22nd season . Italics denotes active player Texas A%26M University Texas A&M University ( Texas A&M , A&M , or TAMU ) is a public , land-grant , research university in College Station, Texas , United States. It
6498-441: The Texas A&M College Station campus as the flagship of a new system of universities, the Texas A&M University System. Its goal was to serve as the lead institution to foster the evolution of a statewide educational, research and service system. On July 1, 1959, Major General James Earl Rudder , class of 1932, became the 16th president of the college. In 1963, with the backing of State Senator William T. "Bill" Moore ,
6612-493: The Texas A&M University System was the first to explicitly state in its policy technology commercialization could be used for tenure . Passage of this policy was intended to give faculty more academic freedom and strengthen the university's industry partnerships. The efforts of system-wide faculty and research departments have yielded millions of dollars for Texas A&M in royalty-bearing license agreements through more than 900 patents and 1,500 patent applications relating to
6726-417: The Texas Wesleyan University School of Law and renamed it the Texas A&M University School of Law . In 2017, the retention of the statue of Lawrence Sullivan "Sul" Ross was in question after other institutions removed statues of former Confederate officers . The Texas A&M University System Chancellor, John Sharp , and President, Michael Young , announced the statue would remain on campus because it
6840-419: The University and its branch campus in Qatar and shared accurate information. In 2013, Texas A&M signed an agreement to open a $ 200 million campus in Nazareth , Israel, as a "peace campus" for Arabs and Israelis. The agreement led to protests from students at the Qatari campus, who called it "an insult to [their] people". The planned campus in Nazareth was never opened; instead, Texas A&M opened
6954-401: The University of Texas and was never incorporated into the University of Texas System . In the late 1880s, many Texas residents saw no need for two colleges in Texas and advocated for the elimination of Texas A.M.C. In 1891, the college was saved from closure by its new president Lawrence Sullivan Ross , former Governor of Texas and former Confederate Brigadier General , by demonstrating
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#17327838443847068-401: The University of Texas, in May 2001, the Association of American Universities inducted Texas A&M on the basis of the depth of its research and academic programs. As the student population increased, so did the university's diverse academic offerings. On July 12, 2013, Texas A&M Health Science Center was formally merged into the university. On August 12, 2013, the university acquired
7182-450: The Year and Rookie of the Year honors. In his second season, Dickerson continued his onslaught on the NFL record book becoming a member of the 2,000-yard club . Twelve times in 1984 he gained more than 100 yards rushing, breaking the record of 100-yard games in a season held by O. J. Simpson . His 2,105 total yards rushing beat Simpson's 1973 NFL season record of 2,003 yards (Dickerson having reached 2,007 yards after 15 games), but since
7296-453: The agreement with the Qatar Foundation, TAMU agreed 70% of its undergraduates at its Qatar campus would be Qatari citizens. The curriculum is designed to emulate the academic rigors of the facility at College Station but critics question whether this is possible due to Qatar's strict stance on some of the freedoms granted to U.S. students. TAMU has also been criticized over its Qatari campus due to Qatar's alleged ties to Islamic terrorism and
7410-413: The anniversary of the Battle of San Jacinto , to honor current and former students who died the previous year. Alumni also typically socialize and remember their time at the university. Over 300 Musters are held around the world, the largest taking place at Reed Arena on the university's main campus. All Muster ceremonies feature the Roll Call for the Absent, in which names of deceased alumni are called,
7524-405: The college began to focus on degrees in scientific agriculture, and civil and mechanical engineering. In 1881, enrollment grew to 258 but declined to 108 in 1883, the same year the University of Texas opened in Austin . Although originally envisioned and annotated in the Texas Constitution as a branch of the soon-to-begin University of Texas, Texas A.M.C. had a separate Board of Directors from
7638-412: The college could function and excel in its established form under proper leadership. Ross made many improvements to the campus, installing running water and permanent dormitories. Enrollment doubled under his tenure to 467 cadets as parents sent their sons to Texas A.M.C. to emulate the traits of Ross. Many college traditions began under Ross's presidency, including the creation of the first Aggie Ring ,
7752-412: The college's educational and technical training resulted in 20,229 trained combat troops for U.S. military efforts. Of those, 14,123 alumni served as officers, more than any other school, and more than the combined total of the United States Naval Academy and the United States Military Academy . At the start of World War II, Texas A&M was selected as one of six engineering colleges to participate in
7866-482: The country's human rights record. In 2016, Texas A&M Aggie Conservatives, a campus activism group, criticized the campus and called for its immediate closure on the grounds it violated a commitment to educating Texans and diminished the credibility of engineering degrees of students at College Station. On 7 January 2024, Mark A. Welsh III , President of TAMU, addressed inaccuracies and misconceptions circulating on various websites and social media platforms regarding
7980-474: The fall semester in 2021, Texas A&M was the largest American university with an enrollment of 72,982 students who were pursuing degrees in 17 academic colleges. The student body originates from all 50 U.S. states and over 120 other countries. Texas residents account for 86.27% of the student population and 7.42% are of international origin. The demographics of the student body are 52.9% male and 47.1% female. Members of ethnic minority groups make up 42.2% of
8094-417: The first conversion of a nuclear research reactor from using highly enriched uranium fuel (70%) to use low-enriched uranium (20%). The eighteen-month project ended on October 13, 2006, after the first-ever refueling of the reactor, thus fulfilling a portion of the United States' Global Nuclear Threat Reduction Initiative. In 2013, geography researchers named the largest volcano on Earth, Tamu Massif , after
8208-661: The first four universities given the designation sea-grant for its achievements in oceanography and marine resources development in 1971. In 1989, the university earned the title space-grant from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to recognize its commitment to space research and participation in the Texas Space Grant Consortium. In 1997, the university opened the Bush School of Government and Public Service and
8322-507: The first time in his young NFL career. He did go on to rush for a playoff record 248 yards against the Dallas Cowboys in post-season play. The 1985 season marked the beginning of ongoing contract disputes between Dickerson and the Rams. In 1987, after playing just three games for the Rams during the strike-shortened 1987 season , Dickerson was traded to the Indianapolis Colts in one of the NFL's biggest trades ever at that time. In
8436-410: The hall. Northside consists of seventeen student residence halls, including two dedicated to honors students . Approximately half of the residence halls on campus are reserved for members of the Corps of Cadets. The university also has four major apartment complexes for both staff and students, which are located both on and adjacent to the campus. Facilities for the Corps of Cadets are located in
8550-753: The impropriety one of his family members made the purchase and was reimbursed by the boosters. He said he later sold the car to an SMU teammate. Initially, Dickerson shared carries with Craig James and Charles Waggoner, all three blue-chip recruits in 1979. Waggoner was hurt returning a kickoff their freshman season, leaving Dickerson and James to lead SMU's running attack, called the Pony Express. Dickerson gained 4,450 yards on 790 carries to break Earl Campbell ’s Southwest Conference record for yards and attempts. His 48 career touchdowns tied Doak Walker ’s SMU total for career scoring. In his senior year, despite splitting time with James, Dickerson finished third in
8664-550: The institution has over 11,750 acres (50 km ), which includes 3,000,000 square feet (279,000 m ) of dedicated research space. The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education classifies Texas A&M among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" as of 2021. Its research entities include the Hagler Institute for Advanced Study , the Texas Institute for Genomic Medicine ,
8778-434: The late 1920s, students were officially nicknamed "Farmers" but the moniker "Aggies"—a common nickname for students at schools focused heavily on agriculture—gained favor and became the official student-body nickname in 1949. The first day of classes was set for October 2, 1876, but only six students enrolled on the first day. Classes were delayed and officially began on October 4 with six faculty members and forty students at
8892-462: The league had scaled down to four teams that would play four-game schedules on Saturdays from April 29, followed by a championship game in Miami on May 27. SFL teams consisted of 38 players, each of whom would receive $ 1,200 per game with a $ 200 winners bonus. The league's games included pre-game and half-time shows featuring national musical acts (such as The O'Jays , Mark Wills, and Poncho Sanchez),
9006-473: The league in rushing since Alan Ameche in 1955. This would mark the apogee of Dickerson's career with the Colts (although he would gain 1,311 yards rushing in 1989 ). Also, 1989 was the year that he passed the 10,000-yard mark, becoming the fastest player ever to do so (91 games), accomplishing the feat faster than greats like Jim Brown (98 games), Barry Sanders (103 games), Emmitt Smith (106 games), and LaDainian Tomlinson (106 games). By 1989, he had set
9120-552: The liberal and practical education of the industrial classes in the several pursuits and professions in life". In 1871, the Texas Legislature used these funds to establish the state's first public institution of higher education, the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas, (Texas A.M.C.). Brazos County donated 2,416 acres (10 km ) near Bryan, Texas , for the college's campus. From its beginning until
9234-695: The main dining centers, and many campus support facilities are also on the main campus. Notable buildings on main campus include Kyle Field , Sterling C. Evans Library, the Academic Building, Harrington Hall, the Memorial Student Center, the Administration Building, Rudder Tower, Albritton Bell Tower, and the Bonfire Memorial . To the west of the railroad tracks lies West Campus, which includes most of
9348-489: The maneuvers. Membership of the Corps of Cadets is a requirement for joining the Aggie Band, whose members live by the same standards, schedules, and regimens as the rest of the Corps. Texas A&M has over 1,000 student organizations, including academic, service, religious, social, and common interest organizations, and hosts 58 nationally or internationally recognized Greek Letter Organizations (GLOs). About 10% of
9462-411: The milestone in just 91 games. During his 11-year career, Dickerson gained 13,259 yards rushing, which was second all-time at the time of his retirement, and rushed for 90 touchdowns. He gained another 2,137 yards and 6 touchdowns on 281 pass receptions. A six-time Pro Bowl selection, Dickerson was All-Pro in 1983 , 1984 , 1986 , 1987 and 1988 . In 1999, his first year of eligibility, Eric Dickerson
9576-487: The military school. During the first semester, enrollment increased to 48 students and by the end of the 1877 spring semester, 106 students had enrolled. Admission was limited to white males, who were required to participate in the Corps of Cadets and receive military training. Originally, the college taught no classes in agriculture or engineering, instead concentrating on classical studies, languages, literature, and applied mathematics. After initial resistance from faculty,
9690-506: The national championship almost every year since their creation in 1946, and have appeared in several Hollywood films, including A Few Good Men and Courage Under Fire , in which they had prominent roles. The Fightin' Texas Aggie Band, the nation's largest precision military marching band , provides music for university functions and presents halftime performances at football games. Some band drills are so complicated they require band members to step between each other's feet to complete
9804-450: The one game played at cavernous Los Angeles Coliseum . The SFL wasn't even able to finish out its modest, one-month season—league officials ended the test program after only two weeks and four games. Houston and San Antonio, both with 2–0 records, were declared league co-champions. The SFL planned to return in 2001 with at least eight teams. However, with funding for the league having been provided by tech-stock entrepreneurs, any chance that
9918-460: The resignation of the interim dean of the College of Arts & Sciences, after a botched attempted hiring of Kathleen McElroy to revive the university's journalism program. The initial job offer, which included a multiyear offer and tenure, was later watered down, with McElroy being presented with a succession of different offer letters. The final, which was rejected, was a one-year contract that could be terminated at any time. Her potential hiring
10032-581: The same. Though not explicitly envisioned as such, over time it became a de facto all-male institution and led to a decades-long debate about the role of women at the college. In 1911, under pressure from the Texas Legislature, the college allowed women to attend classes during the summer semester. A.M.C. expanded its academic offerings with the establishment of the School of Veterinary Medicine in 1915. Many Texas A&M alumni served during World War I and by 1918, 49% of all Aggies were in military service,
10146-496: The school and surrounding community have grown and military training is no longer mandated, the university's history has instilled in students, according to Paul Burka, "the idealized elements of a small-town life: community, tradition, loyalty, optimism, and unabashed sentimentality". Texas Monthly posits that Texas A&M students' respect for school traditions and values is the university's greatest strength. These traditions enable and encourage students and alumni to cultivate
10260-452: The senior class ring . Ross served until his death in 1898; to honor his contributions to the college, a statue of him was erected in 1918 in front of modern-day Academic Plaza. Initially, women were permitted to attend classes only as "special students" but were not permitted to seek degrees. In 1893, Ethel Hudson, a daughter of one of the faculty, became the first woman to take classes; in 1899, her sisters Sophie and Mary Hudson did
10374-431: The sports facilities, the business school, agricultural programs, life sciences, the veterinary college, the political science and economics school, George Bush School of Government & Public Service , George Bush Presidential Library , and two schools within the Texas A&M Health Science Center. Outside the main campus, the institution formally includes three branch campuses : Texas A&M University at Galveston
10488-402: The state of Texas to attend Southern Methodist University because she liked SMU coach Ron Meyer . Dickerson was the subject of recruiting controversy when he started driving a new Pontiac Trans Am during his senior year of high school. According to myth, Dickerson began driving the vehicle about the same time he committed to A&M, and, when he signed with SMU, he purportedly stopped driving
10602-758: The student body receives about $ 810 million in financial aid annually. The admission rate of students who applied as undergraduates in 2020 was 63%. The school is rated as "more selective" by U.S. News & World Report . In a comparison of educational quality, faculty quality, and research output, the Center for World-Class Universities placed Texas A&M 57th nationally and 151st internationally in its 2021 Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) rankings. In its 2021–2022 rankings, The Times Higher Education Supplement listed Texas A&M 61st among North America's universities and 193rd among world universities. The 2021–2022 QS World University Rankings placed
10716-434: The student body very unhappy. The change was initially resisted and some minor efforts to reverse it persisted for several decades. The positive impact of these changes was rapid. By 1972, on-campus housing was dedicated for women and in 1976, the student body elected its first Black student-body president. In the same series of actions, the Texas legislature officially renamed the school "Texas A&M University", specifying
10830-450: The student body, respectively. The School of Education and Human Development and Mays Business School each enrolled 9%. The remaining schools enrolled less than 6% each. In addition, slightly more than 3% of the student body had not declared a major. As of 2019, the university enrolled the seventh-highest total of National Merit scholars in the United States and the third-highest among all public universities. As of 2021, about 72% of
10944-493: The student government for Texas A&M University's graduate and professional students. Student organizations have had a nationwide impact. Texas A&M students founded the largest one-day, student-run service project in America known as The Big Event . The annual service project allows students to serve the community by assisting local residents. Such events are now also held at other universities. The organization CARPOOL,
11058-465: The student population. According to U.S. News & World Report , Texas A&M has a student-to-teacher ratio of 19:1 and an average-freshman-retention rate of 92%. According to the institution, in 2019, it had a four-year-graduation rate of 59% and a six-year-graduation of 81.7%. College of Engineering had the largest enrollment of 29.6%. The College of Liberal Arts and the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences followed, enrolling 12% and 11% of
11172-463: The symbolic nature of the letters "A" and "M", which reflect the institution's past, and no longer denote "Agricultural and Mechanical". By the time of his death in 1970, Rudder had overseen the growth of the college from 7,500 to 14,000 students from all 50 U.S. states and from 75 other nations. In the 35 years following his death, Texas A&M more than tripled its enrollment from 14,000 students to more than 45,000. Texas A&M became one of
11286-768: The undergraduate population is affiliated with a GLO fraternity or sorority. One of the oldest student organizations is the Singing Cadets , an all-male choral group not affiliated with the Corps of Cadets with about 70 members that was founded in 1893. Texas A&M Hillel , the oldest Hillel organization in the United States , was founded in 1920 at the original college. Since 1955, the MSC Student Conference on National Affairs has held conferences, lectures, and other programs to discuss national and international issues with speakers. The Department of Recreational Sports provides athletic activities to
11400-530: The university 168th in the world. In its 2022 edition, the Center for World University Rankings placed Texas A&M as the 74th-best university globally and 41st nationally. In the 2022 edition of the U.S. News & World Report ranking of universities, Texas A&M was placed 68th nationally and 130th globally. In 2021, The Washington Monthly assessed Texas A&M 21st nationally based on their criteria that weigh research, community service, and social mobility. In 2021, Forbes rated Texas A&M as
11514-681: The university community; sports facilities include the Student Recreation Center, a natatorium ; the Penberthy Rec Sports Complex; and the Omar Smith Instructional Tennis Center. The Student Government Association (SGA), one of A&M's largest organizations, has over 1,300 student members in three branches, fifteen committees, and four commissions. The Graduate Student Council, which was founded in 1995, serves as
11628-622: The university in honor of their research contributions. Of the university's numerous agreements and joint facilities of international cooperation, Texas A&M owns a multipurpose center in Mexico City, Soltis Research and Education Center near San Isidro, Costa Rica, and Santa Chiara Study Abroad Center in Castiglion Fiorentino , Italy. During the 2018 academic year, over 5,600 Texas A&M students—primarily undergraduates—studied in 110 countries. Marine research occurs on
11742-783: The university system, Texas A&M is partially funded from two endowments. The smaller endowment and investment assets, totaling $ 2.6 billion as of 2021, is run by the private Texas A&M Foundation. A larger sum is distributed from the Texas Permanent University Fund (PUF), in which the system holds a one-third stake. As of 2021 , the PUF ending net-asset value was approximately $ 30 billion. The National Science Foundation ranked Texas A&M 16th among American universities for research and development expenditures in 2021 with $ 1.14 billion. Concentrated in two primary areas, Research Valley and Research Park,
11856-478: The university's TAMU College of Engineering. TAMUQ was opened in 2003, and the current contract extends through 2023. The campus offers undergraduate degrees in chemical, electrical, mechanical and petroleum engineering, and a graduate degree in chemical engineering. TAMUQ has received awards for its research. Texas A&M receives $ 76.2 million per year from the Qatar Foundation for the campus. In
11970-977: The university's branch campus, Texas A&M University at Galveston . It also has collaborations with international facilities such as Hacienda Santa Clara in San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato , Mexico. The university is one of two American universities in partnership with CONACyT , Mexico's equivalent of the National Science Foundation , to support research in areas including biotechnology, telecommunications, energy, and urban development. The university also hosts Las Americas Digital Research Network, an online architecture network for 26 universities in 12 nations, primarily in Central and South America. Founded in 1995 by then-emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and his wife, who
12084-424: The university's former designation. The university's main campus spans over 5,500 acres (22 km ), and includes the George H. W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum . The university offers degrees in more than 130 courses of study through 18 colleges, and houses 21 research institutes. As a senior military college , Texas A&M is one of six American universities classed as a senior military college and has
12198-498: The vehicle because it "had been destroyed by a vengeful Aggie". Ron Meyer called the car the "Trans A&M". At the time, he said his grandmother from Mexico had purchased it for him. Dickerson has refused to answer whether he accepted anything to attend SMU, saying, "Even if I did take something, I still wouldn't tell." In 2022, Dickerson admitted that the Trans Am had been paid for by A&M boosters, and that in an attempt to hide
12312-736: The week 15 game against the Houston Texans on December 15, 2013, along with Marshall Faulk , another former Colts running back, who, coincidentally, also played for the Rams-albeit in St Louis. In 1999, he was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame . In 2019, he was one of twelve running backs selected to the NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team . Dickerson was elected to the College Football Hall of Fame in 2020. Along with Melissa Stark , Dickerson served as
12426-732: Was appointed interim president. April 2024, students at Texas A&M University joined other college students across the USA in protesting against the Israel-Hamas war . They demanded that A&M divest funds from companies supporting the war. The protests continued in into the next academic year with the students alleging that Israel was carrying out a genocide and the administration cracking down on protests and further limiting free speech . Texas A&M's College Station campus spans 5,200 acres (21 km ) and Research Park covers an additional 350 acres (1 km ). The university
12540-404: Was founded in 1876 and became the flagship institution of the Texas A&M University System in 1948. Since 2021, Texas A&M has enrolled the largest student body in the United States , and is the only university in Texas to hold simultaneous designations as a land-, sea- , and space-grant institution. It is classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" and
12654-418: Was heavily criticized by conservative groups and alumni, as the offer was made to a black woman who had previously worked at The New York Times and studied how to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion in newsrooms. Shortly thereafter, the university paid McElroy $ 1 million to settle her legal claims. After Banks resigned, Mark A. Welsh III , the dean of the Bush School of Government and Public Service ,
12768-411: Was organized in 1924 and the school awarded its first PhD in 1940. In 1925, Mary Evelyn Crawford Locke became the first female student to receive a diploma from Texas A&M but she was not allowed to participate in the graduation ceremony. The following month, the Board of Directors officially prohibited all women from enrolling. Many Texas A&M alumni served in the military during World War II ;
12882-545: Was selected to become a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Also in 1999, he was ranked number 38 on The Sporting News ' list of the 100 Greatest Football Players. The following year , he provided on-field commentary during Monday Night Football broadcasts. The Rams' number 29 has been retired in his honor. Dickerson was inducted into the Indianapolis Colts Ring of Honor during
12996-616: Was traded by the Colts to the Los Angeles Raiders for their fourth- and eighth-round picks in the 1992 draft. There were occasional flashes of greatness—107 yards against the Broncos, 103 against the Chargers, where he recorded his 63rd and 64th career 100-yard games—but those would be his last. Dickerson also scored on a 40-yard touchdown run, reminiscent of his prime, in front of a nationally televised Monday Night audience in
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