Historically Bold: Three Texas Moments that Shaped Higher Education and Student Affairs

Abstract

Understanding the historical foundation of higher education is crucial in administrative practice and scholarly activity in student affairs. Professionals who understand the background and outcomes of historical movements when discussing the future of our profession is important. Higher education historical moments such as the Morrill Acts of 1862 and 1890, the Serviceman’s Readjustment Act of 1944 (also known as the G.I. Bill), and student activism movements in the 1960’s have influenced our efforts to improve the educational aspirations and conditions for generations of college students. Higher education institutions in the United States have evolved to provide college access for diverse populations and enriched the college experience by transforming institutional cultures (for example, the increasing number of Minority-Serving Institutions/MSIs). Higher education and student affairs administration owe a great deal to the important historical moments which occurred in Texas higher education and the players connected with them. How we understand and study college student development, learning outcomes, academic achievement, and campus engagement in many ways are connected to how we respond to these historic moments on college campuses.