**History of East Texas State Normal College**
**Definition**
East Texas State Normal College (ETSNC) was a public institution of higher education established in 1917 in Commerce, Texas, primarily focused on training teachers. It played a significant role in the development of teacher education in East Texas before evolving into what is now Texas A&M University-Commerce.
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## History of East Texas State Normal College
### Origins and Establishment
East Texas State Normal College was founded in 1917 as part of a broader movement in the United States to improve public education by establishing normal schools—institutions dedicated to training teachers. The college was created to serve the educational needs of East Texas, a region that, at the time, had limited access to higher education and professional teacher training.
The establishment of ETSNC was authorized by the Texas Legislature, which recognized the growing demand for qualified teachers in the expanding public school systems of the state. The college was located in Commerce, Texas, a small town strategically chosen for its central location in the region and its accessibility by rail.
### Early Years and Mission
The primary mission of East Texas State Normal College was to prepare teachers for elementary and secondary schools. The curriculum was designed to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical training in pedagogy, child development, and subject matter expertise. The institution initially offered a two-year program leading to a teaching certificate, which was later expanded to include four-year degree programs.
In its early years, ETSNC operated with modest facilities and a small faculty. The campus consisted of a few buildings, including classrooms, dormitories, and administrative offices. Despite limited resources, the college quickly gained a reputation for producing competent and dedicated teachers who contributed significantly to the improvement of education in East Texas.
### Growth and Development (1920s–1940s)
During the 1920s and 1930s, East Texas State Normal College experienced steady growth in enrollment and academic offerings. The college expanded its curriculum beyond teacher training to include liberal arts and sciences, reflecting a broader educational mission. This period also saw improvements in campus infrastructure, including the construction of new academic buildings, dormitories, and recreational facilities.
The Great Depression posed financial challenges for ETSNC, as it did for many educational institutions nationwide. However, the college managed to maintain operations and continued to serve its student population. Federal programs such as the Works Progress Administration (WPA) contributed to campus improvements during this time.
World War II had a significant impact on the college, as many students and faculty members joined the military or contributed to the war effort. Despite these disruptions, ETSNC adapted by offering accelerated programs and training courses to support national needs.
### Transition to East Texas State Teachers College
In 1923, reflecting its expanded academic scope and degree offerings, East Texas State Normal College was renamed East Texas State Teachers College (ETSTC). This change marked a shift from a normal school model to a more comprehensive teachers college, capable of granting bachelor’s degrees in education.
The new designation also signaled the institution’s commitment to higher academic standards and professional preparation for educators. ETSTC continued to grow in size and reputation, attracting students from across Texas and neighboring states.
### Postwar Expansion and Diversification (1950s–1960s)
The post-World War II era brought significant changes to East Texas State Teachers College. The G.I. Bill led to a surge in enrollment as returning veterans sought higher education and professional training. To accommodate this growth, the college expanded its campus facilities, faculty, and academic programs.
During the 1950s and 1960s, ETSTC diversified its curriculum beyond teacher education to include programs in business, sciences, arts, and other professional fields. This diversification reflected broader trends in higher education and the evolving needs of the regional economy.
The college also began to emphasize research and graduate education, establishing master’s degree programs in education and other disciplines. These developments helped ETSTC transition from a regional teachers college to a more comprehensive institution of higher learning.
### Integration and Social Change
Like many institutions in the American South, East Texas State Teachers College faced challenges related to racial segregation and integration during the mid-20th century. The college was initially segregated, admitting only white students.
Following the landmark 1954 Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Board of Education, which declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional, ETSTC gradually moved toward integration. The first African American students were admitted in the 1960s, marking a significant step toward inclusivity and diversity on campus.
This period also saw increased student activism and engagement with national social movements, reflecting broader societal changes.
### Becoming East Texas State University
In 1965, the institution was renamed East Texas State University (ETSU) to reflect its expanded academic mission and university status. This change acknowledged the institution’s growth in graduate education, research, and comprehensive academic offerings.
As a university, ETSU continued to develop new programs, including doctoral degrees, and expanded its role in regional economic and cultural development. The university became a key educational and cultural center in East Texas.
### Integration into the Texas A&M University System
In 1996, East Texas State University joined the Texas A&M University System, one of the largest and most prestigious university systems in Texas. Upon joining the system, the institution was renamed Texas A&M University-Commerce.
This integration brought increased resources, research opportunities, and academic collaborations. It also enhanced the university’s visibility and reputation both within Texas and nationally.
### Legacy and Impact
The history of East Texas State Normal College is marked by its foundational role in teacher education and its evolution into a comprehensive university serving a diverse student body. The institution’s commitment to educational access and quality has had a lasting impact on East Texas and beyond.
Many of the college’s alumni have gone on to become influential educators, administrators, and community leaders. The transformation from a normal school to a university reflects broader trends in American higher education and the changing needs of society.
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## Summary
East Texas State Normal College was established in 1917 to train teachers for East Texas and evolved over the decades into a comprehensive university. Its history reflects significant developments in education, social change, and regional growth, culminating in its current status as Texas A&M University-Commerce.
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**Meta Description:**
East Texas State Normal College, founded in 1917 in Commerce, Texas, was a key institution for teacher education that evolved into Texas A&M University-Commerce. Its history reflects the growth of higher education and social change in East Texas.