About Dr. James Hurley

Dr. James Hurley began his tenure as Tarleton State University’s 16th President in August 2019, leading the institution to unprecedented heights. Since his arrival, Tarleton has elevated its academics, research, enrollment, retention rates, graduation rates, diversity, fundraising and athletics.
Under Dr. Hurley’s leadership, the university created and implemented Tarleton Forward 2030: Our Future-Focused Strategic Plan, a blueprint for becoming the premier comprehensive regional university in the nation. During his time, Tarleton has become one of the country’s fastest growing public universities.
His signature accomplishments include robust enrollment growth, innovative student funding models, accelerated degree completion, vigorous partnerships with high schools and community colleges, enhanced research initiatives, improved operational efficiency, and collaborations with business and community stakeholders. Additionally, Dr. Hurley launched the largest-ever comprehensive capital campaign in Tarleton’s history. Forward Together has shattered fundraising records and already eclipsed $100 million in philanthropic support, trending two years ahead of schedule toward its $125 million 2024 target…