Imagine the scene: it’s 8:15 a.m., and the day is already buzzing with excitement. Parents stroll hand in hand with their wide-eyed kiddos, brimming with anticipation to showcase the inner workings of their workplace or perhaps their future alma mater. This year, at our 2nd annual Bring a Kid to TXST Day, we warmly welcomed approximately 120 children, aged 5-15, along with their parents, for a day filled with exploration and excitement. Our special guest, Eric Algoe, our Executive VP of Operations & CFO, greeted the kids and parents in the morning, setting the tone for the day ahead.
Among the day’s highlights, one activity stole the show: Stuff-a-Bobcat. Watching the kids toss around their newly created companions, one couldn’t help but envy their limitless energy, all before 10 AM and a cup of coffee or two. From marshmallow bridge building to arts and crafts sessions, the day was a whirlwind of hands-on fun. I mean, who wouldn’t want to craft a friendship bracelet or create their own masterpiece?
Throughout the day, the kids enjoyed a range of activities at Texas State University. Some took boat tours at the Meadows Center, exploring the beauty of the San Marcos River, while others toured the campus on foot, seeing landmarks and scenic spots. And let’s not forget about our resident squirrels – they’re practically celebrities around here! They dove into the world of technology on the AlkekOne tour, learning about cutting-edge resources available to students. At the Campus Rec tour, they discovered the range of recreational activities offered. And for our mini sports enthusiasts, the Bobcat Athletics Tour at the baseball complex provided a glimpse into the thrilling world of college athletics.
At the University Police Department, some lucky kids had the chance to meet Pawifficer Brady, Texas State’s beloved therapy dog. However, there was a moment of slight disappointment for one group when they learned that Pawifficer Brady was off duty during their tour. But, spirits were quickly lifted when the officers unveiled a surprise: the police horses! Kids gathered around to feed and pet the majestic animals, while others excitedly took turns sitting on the police four-wheelers and even got the chance to sit behind the wheel of a police car! 
Beyond the activities, something even more precious awaited: the connections made throughout the day. As the kids roamed our campus, they were met with warm smiles and friendly waves from students and staff alike. It was a reminder that at Texas State, we’re more than just a university – we’re a tight-knit community always ready to embrace newcomers.
As the day wound down, there lingered a bittersweet feeling in the air. It had been a whirlwind of laughter, learning, and a few unforeseen adventures (who knew marshmallow bridges could be so… sticky?). By the end, even the most energetic among us may have jokingly wished for a nap time to be added to the agenda. But as families bid farewell and headed home, they did so with memories that would last a lifetime.
As we reflect on the incredible experiences shared, we wanted to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to all the staff, faculty, and campus partners who poured their time, effort, and creativity into making Bring a Kid to TXST Day a resounding success. Your dedication and enthusiasm brought joy to countless young hearts and created cherished memories that will be treasured for years to come. We also extend a special thank you to the parents for bringing their kids and being part of this memorable day. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your unwavering commitment to fostering a welcoming community here at Texas State University. We look forward to continuing this tradition and welcoming all the kids back next year for another unforgettable adventure!
Want to see all photos from Bring a Kid TXST 2024? Click Here!
