East Texas A&M University Celebrates Name Change with Unveiling Ceremony

ETAMU Community and Leaders Celebrate a Historic Milestone as Entrance Signs are Unveiled

On Friday, January 17, East Texas A&M University (ETAMU) unveiled its new name on the stone signs at the campus’s main entrance. East Texas A&M, formerly known as Texas A&M University-Commerce, adopted its new name on November 7, 2024, following a vote by The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents.

A special ceremony preceded the unveiling, drawing a crowd of students, employees, alumni and friends of the university to commemorate the historic event. Distinguished guests included Chancellor John Sharp, Board Chairman Bill Mahomes and Regent James “Randy” Brooks from the The Texas A&M University System. At the event, ETAMU President Mark Rudin gratefully acknowledged the advocacy and partnership of these A&M System leaders throughout the name change process.

Other special guests included District Deputy Director Natalie Steinsholt, representing U.S. Congressman Keith Self; former East Texas A&M President Keith McFarland; Hunt County Judge Bobby Stovall; Hunt County Commissioner Steve Harrison; City of Commerce Mayor Teddy Reel; and Commerce ISD Administrator Steve Drummond.

Bigger name, bigger brand

In his remarks, Chancellor Sharp said he and President Rudin have discussed the possibility of renaming the university for many years.

“One of the first things we both talked about was that this is a great university, and it ought to have a bigger name, a bigger brand,” Sharp said. He described East Texas A&M as “one of the best universities in the Texas A&M System,” adding, “Today, it has a name that reflects that …”

Honoring the past, moving forward

Board Chairman Mahomes emphasized the strong connection between the university's new name and its rich history.

“As we unveil the welcome signs with your new name—East Texas A&M University—we are reminded of the rich history that has shaped this institution for 136 years,” he said. “From its founding in 1889 as a teachers' college until today, East Texas has always been part of its identity, mission and commitment to the region. The new name honors your past and reflects our bright future.”

Student Body President Estefania Olivias echoed the sentiments of others at the ceremony.

“East Texas A&M is reconnecting us back to our roots while moving us forward,” she said. She added that the entrance signs, now bearing the university's new name, “represent a bold statement about where we are and where we're headed.”

View the photo gallery from the unveiling ceremony.

Featured Photo: The sign is unveiled. Photo by East Texas A&M Marketing and Communications