View source for Texas A&M University–Kingsville

{{Short description|Public university in Kingsville, Texas}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=March 2012}}
{{Infobox university
| name = Texas A&M University–Kingsville
| image = Texas A&M University–Kingsville seal.svg
| image_upright = 0.7
| former_names = South Texas Normal School (1917)<br />South Texas State Teachers College (1925)<br />Texas College of Arts and Industries (1929–1967)<br />Texas A&I University (1967–1993)
| established = {{start date and age|1925}}
| type = [[Public university|Public]] [[research university]]
| president = Robert H. Vela Jr.
| provost = James Palmer
| campus = [[Suburb]]an, {{convert|1600|acre|ha}}
| city = [[Kingsville, Texas]]
| country = United States
| coordinates = {{Coord|27.5251|-97.8825|type:edu_region:US|display=inline,title}}
| students = 	6,092 (4,847 undergraduate) (fall 2022)<ref>{{cite web | url=https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?q=Texas+A%26M+University&s=all&id=228705 | title=College Navigator – Texas A & M University–Kingsville }}</ref>
| endowment = $115.7 million<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Texas A&M University–Kingsville: Best Colleges|magazine =U.S. News & World Report |url=https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/texas-am-kingsville-3639}}</ref>
| faculty = 512
| sporting_affiliations = [[NCAA Division II]] – [[Lone Star Conference|Lone Star]]
| nickname = [[Texas A&M–Kingsville Javelinas|Javelinas]]
| mascot = Porky the [[Collared peccary|Javelina]]
| colors = Blue and Gold<ref>{{cite manual|url=https://www.tamuk.edu/marcomm/documents/graphic_standards_compressed.pdf|title=TAMUK Quick Reference Guide Graphic Standards|access-date=2017-05-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170504012622/http://www.tamuk.edu/marcomm/documents/graphic_standards_compressed.pdf|archive-date=May 4, 2017|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref><br />{{color box|#005DAA}}&nbsp;{{color box|#FCC10F}}
| parent = [[Texas A&M University System]]
| website = {{url|https://www.tamuk.edu/|tamuk.edu}}
| logo    = Texasam am univ kingsville logo.png
| logo_size = 200
}}

'''Texas A&M University–Kingsville''' is a [[Public university|public]] [[research university]] in [[Kingsville, Texas]], United States. It is the southernmost campus of the [[Texas A&M University System]]. The university developed the nation's first doctoral degree in [[bilingual education]]. It is [[Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education|classified]] among "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity" and [[Higher education accreditation in the United States|accredited]] by the [[Southern Association of Colleges and Schools|Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS)]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Carnegie Classifications Institution Lookup |url=https://carnegieclassifications.iu.edu/lookup/view_institution.php?unit_id=228705 |publisher=Center for Postsecondary Education |website=carnegieclassifications.iu.edu |access-date=13 September 2020}}</ref><ref>Hunter, Cecilia Aros and Leslie Gene. "Texas A&M University–Kingsville." Arcadia Press, 2000. p.55</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sacs.org/sacs_directory.pdf|title=SACS_directory.ai|access-date=2010-11-27|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101129052210/http://sacs.org/sacs_directory.pdf|archive-date=November 29, 2010|df=mdy-all}}</ref>

Texas A&M University–Kingsville is the oldest continuously operating public institution of higher learning in South Texas. The school was chartered as the "South Texas Normal School" in 1917; however, the opening of the school was delayed due to World War I. Founded in 1925 as "South Texas State Teachers College", the university's name changed in 1929 to "Texas College of Arts and Industries", or "Texas A&I" for short, signaled the broadening of its mission. A 1967 name change to "Texas A&I University" marked another transition. The university became a member of the [[Texas A&M University System]] in 1989 and changed its name to Texas A&M University–Kingsville in 1993.{{Citation needed | date=October 2024}}

==Academics==

===Student body===
[[File:CollegeHalltower001.jpg|thumb|left|150px|Bell tower atop College Hall]]

Texas A&M University–Kingsville has a highly diverse student body with 6,357<ref>{{Cite web|title=Our History {{!}} Texas A&M University Kingsville|url=https://www.tamuk.edu/about/index.html|access-date=2021-03-11|website=www.tamuk.edu}}</ref> students pursuing degrees from five academic colleges. The student body is represented by students from 40 U.S. states and more than 35 foreign countries. The student body is split almost evenly with 53% men and 47% women. Undergraduate students represent about 80% of the student population. The student body reflects the high [[Hispanic]] population of the [[South Texas]] area, with 69% of the students belonging to a Hispanic ethnicity, 15% white, and 4% African-American. Around 7% of students are international students.<ref name="tamuk.edu">{{cite web|date=2021-03-10|title=About Texas A&M University–Kingsville|url=https://www.tamuk.edu/about/index.html|access-date=2021-03-10|publisher=Tamuk.edu}}</ref>

===Admission===
As a [[List of colleges and universities in Texas|Texas public university]] and a member of the [[Texas A&M University System]], Texas A&M University–Kingsville participates in the [[Texas House Bill 588|Texas "top-10 law"]],<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://www.tamus.edu/overview/faq.html | title=Frequently Asked Questions |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100528130233/http://www.tamus.edu/overview/faq.html|archive-date=May 28, 2010}}</ref> which guarantees admission of the top 10% of Texas public high-school students into public colleges or universities in the state.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.legis.state.tx.us/billlookup/History.aspx?LegSess=80R&Bill=HB78&Sort=A|title=Texas Legislature Online – 80(R) History for HB 78|publisher=Legis.state.tx.us|access-date=2010-11-27}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tx.billhop.com/bills/80(R)/HB78/|title=BillHop – Texas &#124; HB 78|publisher=Tx.billhop.com|date=2006-12-11|access-date=2010-11-27|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110708001330/http://tx.billhop.com/bills/80(R)/HB78|archive-date=July 8, 2011|df=mdy-all}}</ref> Whereas certain Texas universities (such as the [[University of Texas at Austin]]) can limit these "top 10%" students to 75% of the incoming freshmen class via a tiered system, Texas A&M University–Kingsville offers admission to any student who graduated in the top 10%.<ref>{{cite web|author=Ralph K.M. Haurwitz|url=http://www.statesman.com/search/content/test/0526topten_FN.html|title=Austin news, sports, weather, Longhorns, business|publisher=Statesman.com|date=2009-05-26|access-date=2010-11-27}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.utexas.edu/student/admissions/research/HB588survey.html|title=Admissions Research: Perceptions of Entering Freshmen – UT Austin|publisher=Utexas.edu|date=2006-09-10|access-date=2010-11-27|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110514012105/http://www.utexas.edu/student/admissions/research/HB588survey.html|archive-date=May 14, 2011|df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.tamuk.edu/enrollment-management/admission/|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100527120228/http://www.tamuk.edu/admissions/faq/|url-status=dead|title=Admissions Home &#124; Texas A&M University Kingsville|archivedate=May 27, 2010|website=www.tamuk.edu}}</ref>

[[File:Irma Rangel College of Pharmacy.jpg|right|thumb|[[Texas A&M Health Science Center Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy|Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy]] on the campus]]

===Faculty===
More than 75% of the faculty hold terminal degrees (such as PhDs or [[Ed.D.]]s.) and have come to the university from more than 41 U.S. states and foreign countries. The university maintains a student/faculty ratio of 16 to one.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.princetonreview.com/schools/college/CollegeAcademics.aspx?iid=1023682|title=College Education &#124; Scholarships &#124; Admission|publisher=The Princeton Review|access-date=2015-08-02}}</ref>

===Programs===
Texas A&M–Kingsville has 56 undergraduate degree programs, 61 master's programs and six [[Doctorate|doctoral degrees]] in the Colleges of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Human Sciences, Arts and Sciences, Business Administration, Education and Human Performance, Engineering, and Graduate Studies.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.tamuk.edu/academics/|title=Academic Programs|publisher=Tamuk.edu|date=2010-10-20|access-date=2010-11-27}}</ref> The university features the region's only programs in engineering, [[social sciences]] and agriculture. A&M–Kingsville's [[bilingual education]] program, offering degrees at the master's and doctoral levels, was the first of its kind in the country and continues to be one of the strongest.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.tamuk.edu/news/2005/december/bilingual_ed/|title=News Release Campus News and Events &#93; – www.tamuk.edu|publisher=Tamuk.edu|access-date=2010-11-27|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100912194212/http://www.tamuk.edu/news/2005/december/bilingual_ed/|archive-date=September 12, 2010|df=mdy-all}}</ref>

===Rankings===
{{Infobox US university ranking
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| Forbes   =
| THE_WSJ  =
| USNWR_NU = 352 <small>(tie)</small>
| Wamo_NU  = 383
<!-- Global rankings -->
| ARWU_W   =
| QS_W     =
| THES_W   =
| USNWR_W  =
}}
[[File:Engineeringbuilding001a.jpg|left|thumb|Engineering Building as seen from West Avenue B]]

In 2006, [[Texas A&M Health Science Center Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy]] opened as the first professional school of any kind at any university south of [[San Antonio]].  The Center for Urban Education at the [[University of Southern California]] recently identified Texas A&M University–Kingsville as one of the top 25 Hispanic-serving institutions <!-- (HSIs) --> in America. The school is recognized as being "potential exemplary, or model, of effective practices for increasing the number of Latina and Latino bachelor’s degree holders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://cue.usc.edu/news/NSF-Report.pdf|title=NFS Report:Layout 1|access-date=2010-11-27|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110106003032/http://cue.usc.edu/news/NSF-Report.pdf|archive-date=January 6, 2011|df=mdy-all}}</ref> Texas A&M University–Kingsville ranks 43rd out of American colleges and universities in bachelor's degrees awarded to [[Hispanic]]s according to the [[Hispanic Outlook in Higher Education|Hispanic Outlook in Higher Education Magazine]]. The magazine also determined that the school ranks seventh in the nation for agriculture degrees and fifth in multi/interdisciplinary studies.<ref>{{cite web|last=Alford|first=Steven|url=http://www.caller.com/news/2010/jun/07/texas-am-university-kingsville-ranked-in-top-50/|title=A&M–Kingsville, A&M–Corpus Christi rank high in service to Hispanics » Corpus Christi Caller-Times|publisher=Caller.com|access-date=2010-11-27}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hispanicoutlook.com/top100.htm|title=Hispanic Outlook|publisher=Hispanic Outlook|access-date=2010-11-27|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110709213943/http://www.hispanicoutlook.com/top100.htm|archive-date=July 9, 2011|df=mdy-all}}</ref>

[[File:Nierman science hall of texas.jpg|thumb|left|J. L. Nierman Science Hall]]

The university's [[Buyer (fashion)|fashion and interiors merchandising program]], part of the Department of Human Sciences, was ranked as a top-10 program among schools in the Southwest by Fashion Schools in 2013.<ref name="ReferenceB">{{cite web|date=June 11, 2013|title=Fashion merchandising program puts Texas A&M–Kingsville in top rankings|url=https://www.tamuk.edu/news/2013/06/fashionmerchandisingranking.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130719145936/http://www.tamuk.edu/news/2013/06/fashionmerchandisingranking.html|archive-date=July 19, 2013|access-date=June 26, 2013}}</ref> The program ranked 10th among all schools with fashion programs in Texas, Oklahoma, Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, and Nevada and number 72 among all schools nationally.<ref name="ReferenceB"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.fashion-schools.org/articles/top-75-fashion-merchandising-schools-us?page=0,7|title=Top 75 Fashion Merchandising Schools in the US|publisher=Fashion Schools|date=2013-05-09|access-date=2015-08-02}}</ref>

===Research===
The National Natural Toxins Research Center at Texas A&M–Kingsville boasts a large collection of [[venomous snake]]s and attracts researchers from around the world to its one-of-a-kind [[serpentarium]]. For almost four decades, its mission has been to provide global research, training, and resources that will lead to the discovery of medically important [[toxin]]s found in snake venoms. They also provide [https://web.archive.org/web/20080509061918/http://ntrc.tamuk.edu/cgi-bin/serpentarium/snake.query snake venoms, venom fractions, and tissue] for biomedical research.

Texas A&M–Kingsville's Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute is internationally recognized for its research into the conservation and management of wildlife. As the leading wildlife research organization in Texas, it emphasizes research in such fields of study as [[Ecology|habitat ecology and management]], [[Conservation biology|wildlife biology, ecology and management]], [[Parasitology|wildlife diseases, parasitology, and toxicology]], [[Sustainable development|economic development of natural resources]], and [[citizen science]]. [[Wildlife biologist|Research scientists]] and biology and agriculture students conduct research in habitat, toxicology, genetics, and various animal programs, including deer, wild cats, and birds.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nfwf.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=Home&CONTENTID=3432&TEMPLATE=/CM/ContentDisplay.cfm|title=National Fish and Wildlife Foundation &#124; Home|publisher=Nfwf.org|date=2004-04-22|access-date=2010-11-28|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716145807/http://www.nfwf.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=Home&CONTENTID=3432&TEMPLATE=%2FCM%2FContentDisplay.cfm|archive-date=July 16, 2011|df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://ckwri.tamuk.edu/|title=CKWRI|publisher=Ckwri.tamuk.edu|date=2010-09-01|access-date=2010-11-28}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://ckwri.tamuk.edu/research-programs/feline-research-center/|title=CKWRI :: Feline Research Center|publisher=Ckwri.tamuk.edu|access-date=2010-11-28|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101213084012/http://ckwri.tamuk.edu/research-programs/feline-research-center/|archive-date=December 13, 2010|df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref>[http://www.wildlifejournals.org/perlserv/?request=get-document&doi=10.2193%2F2006-071 Unknown]{{dead link|date=June 2016|bot=medic | fix-attempted=yes}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.chron.com/sports/photogallery/Tracking_the_rare_ocelot.html|title=Learning about ocelots &#124; Photos &#124; Chron.com – Houston Chronicle|publisher=Chron.com|date=2010-02-17|access-date=2010-11-28}}</ref>

The Texas A&M University–Kingsville Citrus Center is known around the world for its work in [[citrus]] research and development. The center attracts scholars and research projects from around the world, incorporating undergraduate and graduate student training into its diverse research programs, such as [[biotechnology]], [[entomology]], [[pathology]], and [[budwood certification]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://kcc-weslaco.tamu.edu/|title=Texas A&M University Kingsville Citrus Center – Weslaco, Texas|publisher=Kcc-weslaco.tamu.edu|date=2010-07-02|access-date=2010-11-28}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://law.justia.com/texas/codes/ag/002.00.000019.00.html|title=2005 Texas Code – CHAPTER 19. CITRUS BUDWOOD CERTIFICATION PROGRAM – Texas Agriculture Code :: Justia – US Laws, Codes, Statutes & Cases – Justia|publisher=Law.justia.com|date=1995-06-08|access-date=2010-11-28}}</ref> The center is also known for its research and development of several popular varieties of citrus, including the [[Ruby Red grapefruit]].<ref name="texasweet.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.texasweet.com/About-Texas-Citrus/Texas-Grapefruit-History|title=Texas Citrus – Texas Rio Star Grapefruit and Texas Sweet Oranges/ Texas Citrus/Grapefruit – Texas Citrus – Texas Rio Star Grapefruit and Texas Sweet Oranges/ Texas Citrus/Grapefruit|publisher=Texasweet.com|access-date=2010-11-28|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101128162502/http://texasweet.com/About-Texas-Citrus/Texas-Grapefruit-History|archive-date=November 28, 2010|df=mdy-all}}</ref>

The Wellhausen Water Resources Center, through its membership in the [[International Arid Lands Consortium]], is playing a role in the Middle East with its expertise in water conservation and development. The newly founded South Texas Environmental Institute plans to bring regional entities together to solve environmental questions through research.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.tamuk.edu/news/archive/arch97/april/distgawd.html|title=Texas A&M–Kingsville Recognizes Outstanding Employees; Honors Past Chairs Of Faculty Senate|publisher=Tamuk.edu|date=1997-04-18|access-date=2010-11-28}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://ialcworld.org/About/AandM.html|title=IALC|publisher=Ialcworld.org|date=2009-07-14|access-date=2010-11-28}}</ref>

The James C. Jernigan Library is central to the university's goal of offering first-rate academic research. The collection includes more than a half million volumes and over 700,000 [[microfiche]] documents. The facility also subscribes to more than 2,200 academic and general-interest periodicals and is designated as a depository for selected U.S. government documents. The library hosts a rare book room that includes materials from throughout Texas, the [[Southwestern United States|Southwest]], and the United States.

[[File:JerniganLibrary007.jpg|thumb|left|James C. Jernigan Library]]The [[South Texas Archives and Special Collections]], a division of the [[James C. Jernigan Library]] hosts one of the largest archival collections in Texas, devoted almost exclusively to the history of South Texas. The South Texas Archives are a state depository that contains the official records from many local towns, cities, special districts, courts, and other regional agencies. In addition, the archive hosts large photograph collections, thousands of written and oral histories of the region, and the collections of many local and state legislators, such as [[Carlos Truan]], [[Irma Rangel (Texas politician)|Irma Rangel]], and [[J.T. Canales]].

==Campus==
[[File:EngineeringComplex002.jpg|thumb|right|Row of Palm trees leading to the Javelina Engineering Complex]]

Texas A&M–Kingsville is located in [[Kingsville, Texas]], just {{convert|40|mi|km}} southwest of [[Corpus Christi, Texas]] and {{convert|120|mi|km}} north of [[Mexico]]. Kingsville, with a population of 25,000, is home to the headquarters of the famed [[King Ranch]] and [[Naval Air Station Kingsville]]. The Kingsville campus of Texas A&M–Kingsville encompasses {{convert|1601|acre|ha}} of land, with the bulk of activities occurring within a {{convert|250|acre|ha|adj=on}} main campus that consists of more than 85 buildings.<ref name="tamuk.edu"/>

[[File:Collegehallaftervictory004.jpg|thumb|left|College Hall after football victory as seen from Javelina statue on University Blvd.]]
The architecture of the main campus reflects a [[Mission Revival Style architecture|Spanish Mission Revival]] style. The school's first president, [[R. B. Cousins]], decided that the campus should reflect the people and culture of the area. He established the tradition of having each of the buildings on campus reflect a Spanish Mission Revival style of architecture. Nearly every building on the campus has the red tile roofs, towers, and a curved-gable [[parapet]].

The first building constructed, Manning Hall, contains an eastern tower that is a stylized version of the tower at [[Mission San José (Texas)|Mission San José]]. The tower on the west is a replica of the tower at [[Mission Concepcion]]. The curved-gable parapet represents the [[Alamo]], the famous former mission located in San Antonio.{{Citation needed | date=October 2024}}

In addition to the main campus, the university operates several satellite campuses around the main campus. This includes the agricultural research area to the west of campus, the TAMUK Rodeo Arena and livestock area to the north of campus, and the Tio and Janell Kleberg Wildlife Research Park adjacent to the northwestern entrance of the main campus on Corral Avenue.

[[File:Tamuklights001.jpg|thumb|right|Lamps align alongside University Blvd.]]
[[File:Pharmacy and Business buildings, Texas A&M University-Kingsville - 20060129.jpg|thumb|left|Pharmacy complex with Business Administration building in the background]]
The university recently developed a new master plan for the campus. In May 2010, details of the plan were released to the public.<ref name="kr-bn.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.kr-bn.com/news/2010-05-16/|title=Front Page &#124; www.kr-bn.com &#124; Kingsville Record|publisher=www.kr-bn.com|access-date=2010-11-28|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110215191240/http://www.kr-bn.com/news/2010-05-16/|archive-date=February 15, 2011|df=mdy-all}}</ref> This plan calls for a multimillion-dollar improvement of the current campus infrastructure along with the development of several new buildings, walkways, green spaces, and parking additions. In addition to new and improved structures, the campus will undergo a campus beautification project that will include new signs, lighting, landscaping, and remodeling of existing outdoor facilities. <!-- Although some of these projects have been recently completed, the majority of projects will commence in the fall of 2010. --><ref name="kr-bn.com"/><ref name=constructing>{{cite web|url=https://www.tamuk.edu/construction/master_plan/|title=Constructing Tomorrow|publisher=Tamuk.edu|access-date=2010-11-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160424144624/http://www.tamuk.edu/construction/master_plan/|archive-date=April 24, 2016|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref>

In addition, Texas A&M–Kingsville maintains two large research farms known as the Texas A&M University–Kingsville Citrus Center in Weslaco. Scientists and researchers at the center seek to find innovative solutions for the global citrus industry while developing variations in citrus (such as the 'Ruby Red', 'Star Ruby', and 'Rio Red' [[grapefruit]] varieties) through cutting-edge scientific techniques.<ref name="texasweet.com"/>

Poteet Hall houses the [[Santa Gertrudis Independent School District]]'s comprehensive high school, Santa Gertrudis Academy High School.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sgisd.net/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=925191&type=d&pREC_ID=1260681|title=District Contact Information|publisher=Santa Gertrudis Independent School District|access-date=2024-03-09|quote=Santa Gertrudis School 803 Santa Rosa Kingsville, TX 78363 [...] Santa Gertrudis Academy High School Poteet Hall 1055 W. Santa Gertrudis Kingsville, TX 78363}}</ref>

==Student life==
{| class="wikitable floatright sortable collapsible"; text-align:right; font-size:80%;"
|+ style="font-size:90%" |Undergraduate demographics as of Fall 2023<ref>{{cite web |title= College Scorecard: Texas A & M University-Kingsville|url=https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/school/?228705-Texas-A-M-University-Kingsville|website=College Scorecard |publisher=[[United States Department of Education]] |access-date=June 30, 2025 }}</ref>
|-
! Race and ethnicity
! colspan="2" data-sort-type=number |Total
|-
| [[Hispanic and Latino Americans|Hispanic]]
|align=right| {{bartable|76|%|2||background:green}}
|-
| [[Non-Hispanic whites|White]]
|align=right| {{bartable|15|%|2||background:cyan}}
|-
| [[African Americans|Black]]
|align=right| {{bartable|4|%|2||background:purple}}
|-
| [[International student]]
|align=right| {{bartable|2|%|2||background:#008080}}
|-
| [[Asian Americans|Asian]]
|align=right| {{bartable|1|%|2||background:orange}}
|-
| [[Multiracial Americans|Two or more races]]
|align=right| {{bartable|1|%|2||background:violet}}
|-
! colspan="4" data-sort-type=number |[[Economic diversity]]
|-
| [[American lower class|Low-income]]{{efn|The percentage of students who received an income-based federal [[Pell grant]] intended for low-income students.}}
|align=right| {{bartable|57|%|2||background:red}}
|-
| [[Affluence in the United States|Affluent]]{{efn|The percentage of students who are a part of the [[American middle class]] at the bare minimum.}}
|align=right| {{bartable|43|%|2||background:black}}
|}
[[File:CourtyardofMSUB.jpg|Courtyard of the Memorial Student Union Building, referred to as the "MSUB" or "SUB" by students|thumb|right]]

===Residential life===
The majority of undergraduate students at Texas A&M–Kingsville live on campus in one of several major dormitory buildings. Martin Hall, Lynch Hall, Lucio Hall (Formerly University Village), and Mesquite Village West house approximately 2,300 students in a shared or private dormitory environment.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://osa.tamuk.edu/housing/index.shtm|title=University Housing and Residence Life|publisher=Osa.tamuk.edu|access-date=2010-11-28|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100826071150/http://osa.tamuk.edu/housing/index.shtm|archive-date=August 26, 2010|df=mdy-all}}</ref> In addition to traditional male and female dorms, Texas A&M University–Kingsville provides many apartment style residence halls and suites that house approximately 1,200 students.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.caller.com/news/2011/aug/26/texas-am-kingsville-unveils-new-18m-student/|title=Texas A&M–Kingsville unveils new $18M student dorms » Corpus Christi Caller-Times}}</ref> Many of the residence halls on campus provide distinct [[Learning community|"Living Learning Communities"]] for students. This optional housing arrangement helps provide a fraternal residential atmosphere for students from diverse backgrounds, academic fields and interests.<ref>[http://osa.tamuk.edu/llc/index.shtm Living and Learning Community] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120317142908/http://osa.tamuk.edu/llc/index.shtm|date=March 17, 2012 }}</ref> These communities currently include [[Physical fitness|Fitness and Wellness]], Music, Engineering, Agriculture and [[Wildlife]], [[:wikt:Fashionista|Fashionista]], Leadership, Technology and [[Honors student|Honors]].<ref>[http://osa.tamuk.edu/housing/llcinfo.shtm University Housing and Residence Life] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100826071155/http://osa.tamuk.edu/housing/llcinfo.shtm|date=August 26, 2010 }}</ref>

The university recently completed a new residence hall with 600 beds in a suite-style environment.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.tamuk.edu/news/2008/november/res_hall_groundbreaking/|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20090406234046/http://www.tamuk.edu/news/2008/november/res_hall_groundbreaking/|url-status=dead|title=Campus news and events |archivedate=April 6, 2009|website=www.tamuk.edu}}</ref> The university recently broke ground on a new residence hall that will also house students in the Honors College.<ref name=constructing/>

Another student dormitory, Mesquite Village West, opened in time for the Fall 2011 school year.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kr-bn.com/news/2011-08-31/Front_Page/TAMUK_opens_new_18M_Mesquite_Village_West_residenc.html|title=TAMUK opens new $18M Mesquite Village West residence hall|publisher=kr-bn.com|access-date=2011-09-01|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130128075019/http://www.kr-bn.com/news/2011-08-31/Front_Page/TAMUK_opens_new_18M_Mesquite_Village_West_residenc.html|archive-date=January 28, 2013|df=mdy-all}}</ref> At a cost of more than $18 Million, this 98,000 square foot building provides suite-style two and four bedroom apartments with a kitchenette, living room and one or two bathrooms per unit.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://osa.tamuk.edu/housing/mv.shtm|title=Mesquite Village West – Home|publisher=tamuk.edu|access-date=2011-09-01}}{{dead link|date=September 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> It also provides three separated housing wings, including Fashionista, Technology and Honors themed communities.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://javelinapride.net/justin/2011/08/15/mesquite-village-west/|title=Mesquite Village West Virtual Tour|publisher=javelinapride.net|access-date=2011-09-01}}{{Dead link|date=June 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=no }}</ref>

[[File:Newdorms004.jpg|thumb|left|University Village residence hall opened Fall 2009]]
Many students choose to obtain meals at various university dining halls and restaurants. In addition to the restaurants located on campus, the university operates several large dining halls in the dormitories and Student Union Building. The university is also building a new dining hall that will be able to accommodate 378 students at one time.<ref name=constructing/> Along with this new dining hall, resident students can also use the cafeteria located in Turner-Bishop Hall, Martin Hall or at the various restaurants located in the Memorial Student Union Building. There is also a new cafe located in the James C. Jernigan Library.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.campusdish.com/en-US/CSSW/TexasAMKingsville|title=Welcome to CampusDish at Texas A&M University – Kingsville!|publisher=Campusdish.com|access-date=2010-11-28|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101113155624/http://www.campusdish.com/en-US/CSSW/TexasAMKingsville/|archive-date=November 13, 2010|df=mdy-all}}</ref>

The Memorial Student Union Building (commonly called the MSUB or SUB) is often referred to as the "living room of campus."<ref name=constructing/> It is home to the Office of Financial Aid, the Office of Student Activities, the Dean of Students, several ballrooms and meeting rooms. The building also houses a [[Pizza Hut]], [[Starbucks]], [[Chick-fil-A]], and a [[Subway (restaurant)|Subway]]. Dining services throughout the campus are provided by [[Aramark]], operating as Javelina Dining.<ref>{{cite web|last=Bigger|first=Gloria|url=http://www.kr-bn.com/news/2010-05-16/Front_Page/Kingsville_skyline_would_change_dramatically_as_TA.html|title=Kingsville skyline would change dramatically as TAMUK master plan is fully implemented &#124; www.kr-bn.com &#124; Kingsville Record|publisher=www.kr-bn.com|date=2010-05-16|access-date=2010-11-28|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110216011553/http://www.kr-bn.com/news/2010-05-16/Front_Page/Kingsville_skyline_would_change_dramatically_as_TA.html|archive-date=February 16, 2011|df=mdy-all}}</ref> The building also hosts a large university bookstore, operated by [[Barnes & Noble]]. The Memorial Student Union Building also accommodates a large game room with a dozen pool tables, [[ping pong]] tables, a computer and study hall section, several large flat screen televisions, and a video arcade room.

===Activities===
The university recently opened a new Student Recreation Center. The new 24-hour center is approximately {{convert|36000|sqft|m2|abbr=on}} and contains two indoor multi-purpose gymnasiums that can be used for basketball, soccer, and volleyball. It also contains {{convert|5600|sqft|m2|abbr=on}} square feet for a new cardio fitness and weight room with an elevated track. It was officially opened in April 2010.<ref name=constructing/><ref name="ReferenceA">{{Cite web|url=https://www.tamuk.edu/news/2010/april/student_rec_center/|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100609055619/http://www.tamuk.edu/news/2010/april/student_rec_center/|url-status=dead|title=Campus news and events |archivedate=June 9, 2010|website=www.tamuk.edu}}</ref>

The [[Hampton Inn Court at the Steinke Physical Education Center (SPEC)|Steinke Physical Education Center (SPEC)]] is home to the university's Department of [[Kinesiology]]. The multistory complex also houses various recreational concourses that provide many activities for students, faculty, and staff throughout the semester. Among these are a bowling alley, racquetball courts, an Olympic sized swimming pool, a fitness center, and large locker rooms.

The school has many activities available to students and residents throughout the year. The Office of University Housing and Residence Life and the Office of Student Activities sponsor many activities throughout the year, including Hoggie Days (a student orientation program), fall and spring festivals, picnics, dorm activities. The Office of Student Activities also hosts free weekend movie events in the Peacock Auditorium, lawn and [[drive-in]] movie events, recreational sports, Family Weekend events, the Homecoming Bonfire, and several other traditional school spirit or entertainment activities throughout the year.

===Media===
[[File:Manninghallktai001.jpg|thumb|right|Manning Hall and the [[KTAI]] radio tower]]
[[Texas A&M University-Kingsville]] is home to several prestigious media outlets. [[The South Texan]] is the school's official newspaper. It is a newspaper produced by students and has been in continuous publication since 1925. [[The South Texan]] has produced a distinguished list of journalists who now work in media outlets across the nation.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.tamuk.edu/southtexan/mission.html|title=The South Texan Mission|publisher=Tamuk.edu|access-date=2010-11-28}}</ref> The university offers broadcast media outlets as well. [[KTAI|KTAI 91.1 FM]], the school's official radio station, has been in operation for over 40 years. As [[Kingsville, Texas|Kingsville]]'s only radio station, [[KTAI]] is a student-operated radio station that provides a mix of music, news, and live sports programming. The school also offers a campus television station, [[TAMUK TV-2]], which is aired throughout the campus and via local cable television. Like [[KTAI]], [[TAMUK TV-2]] offers students the opportunity to work in various aspects and roles of broadcast media while earning [[college credit]]. Many students have moved on to work in radio and television throughout Texas. Both [[KTAI]] and [[TAMUK TV-2]] are operated under the auspices of the Radio and Television division of the Communications and [[Theater Arts]] Department.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.tamuk.edu/ktai/history.html|title=KTAI|publisher=Tamuk.edu|access-date=2010-11-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100527123950/http://www.tamuk.edu/ktai/history.html|archive-date = May 27, 2010|url-status=dead}}</ref>

==Student organizations==
The university hosts a number of student organizations, including a number of Greek-letter academic honor societies, academic and professional societies, political clubs, religious student organizations, and many others. There are approximately 105 student organizations at Texas A&M University–Kingsville. They are divided into categories: academic, community service, honor societies, faith-based, spirit & tradition, cultural/international, military, sports, Greek, performing & visual arts, social & political issues, student government, student media, health & recreation, programming, and special interest.<ref>[http://osa.tamuk.edu/studenthandbook/StudentOrganizations.html Student Organizations] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080725043816/http://osa.tamuk.edu/studenthandbook/StudentOrganizations.html|date=July 25, 2008 }}</ref>

===Academic===

====College of Arts and Sciences====
* [[Javelina Broadcast Network]]
* [[Press Club]]

'''College of Education and Human Performance'''
*Texas Association of Students for Bilingual Education (TASBE)
*HKN Club

==== College of Engineering ====
* Engineering Student Council (ESC)
* [[Architectural Engineering Institute|Architectural Engineering Institute (AEI)]]
* [[American Society of Mechanical Engineers]]
* [[American Nuclear Society|American Nuclear Society (ANS)]]
* [[American Institute of Chemical Engineers]]
* [[Society of Women Engineers]]
* [[American Society of Civil Engineers]]
* [[National Society of Black Engineers]]
* [[Society of Manufacturing Engineers|Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME)]]
* [[Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers]]
* [[Society of Mexican American Engineers and Scientists]]
* [[Society of Petroleum Engineers]]
* [[American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics]]
* [[Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers]]
* [[Marine Technology Society]]
* [[Association for Computing Machinery]]
* [[Information school]]

==== College of Business Administration ====
* [[Delta Mu Delta]]
* [[Delta Sigma Pi]]
* [[Association of Information Technology Professionals]]
* [[Society for Human Resource Management]]
* [[Financial Management Association]]

===Greek life===
The university is home to chapters or colonies of several Greek [[Fraternity|fraternities]] and [[Sorority|sororities]].

*

==Athletics==
{{Main|Texas A&M–Kingsville Javelinas}}

Texas A&M–Kingsville (TAMUK) athletic teams are the Javelinas. The university is a member of the [[NCAA Division II|Division II]] level of the [[National Collegiate Athletic Association]] (NCAA), primarily competing in the [[Lone Star Conference]] (LSC) since the 1954–55 academic year.

Texas A&M–Kingsville (TAMUK) competes in 13 intercollegiate varsity sports: Men's sports include baseball, basketball, cross country, [[Texas A&M–Kingsville Javelinas football|football]] and track & field; while women's sports include basketball, beach volleyball, cross country, golf, softball, tennis, track & field and volleyball.

The Javelinas has seen much success in athletics, winning several conference titles, most recently in baseball and [[American football|football]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.javelinaathletics.com/MensBaseball.cfm?spcode=BASB|title=Texas A&M Kingsville – Javelinas|publisher=Javelinaathletics.com|access-date=2010-11-28|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110414220410/http://www.javelinaathletics.com/MensBaseball.cfm?spcode=BASB|archive-date=April 14, 2011|df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.lonestarconference.org/sports/fball/2009-10/weekly_releases/fbrelease110909.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110722075907/http://www.lonestarconference.org/sports/fball/2009-10/weekly_releases/fbrelease110909.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-date=July 22, 2011 |title=Unknown }}</ref>

===Football===
{{main|Texas A&M–Kingsville Javelinas football}}

The perennial success in football<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.javelinaathletics.com/MensFootball.cfm?spcode=FOOT|title=Texas A&M Kingsville – Javelinas|publisher=Javelinaathletics.com|date=2010-09-02|access-date=2010-11-28|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101027084253/http://www.javelinaathletics.com/MensFootball.cfm?spcode=FOOT|archive-date=October 27, 2010|df=mdy}}</ref> led some to dub the school as a "football factory" with 7 National Championships: 1979, 1976, 1975, 1974, 1970, 1969, 1959 and 34 Conference Championships: 1931, 1932, 1938, 1939, 1941, 1951, 1952, 1959, 1960, 1962, 1967–70, 1974–77, 1979, 1985, 1987–89, 1992–97, 2001–04, 2009. The university holds the record as the [[NCAA Division II|Division II]] school with the most professional athletes signed by teams in the [[National Football League|NFL]], including [[Pro Football Hall of Fame]] inductees [[Gene Upshaw]], [[Darrell Green]], and [[John Randle]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.javelinaathletics.com/UserFiles/File/Media_Guides/2009_Football_Media_Guide1.pdf |access-date=2023-04-26 |website=www.javelinaathletics.com |date=2009 |title=Football Media Guide |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110713091702/http://www.javelinaathletics.com/UserFiles/File/Media_Guides/2009_Football_Media_Guide1.pdf |archive-date=July 13, 2011 }}</ref>

Because of its great success, attendance at [[American football|football]] games in Javelina Stadium ranks amongst the highest in [[NCAA Division II]]. Javelina Stadium has more than 18,000 seats, which is one of the largest [[NCAA Division II|Division II]] football stadiums in the nation. Javelina Stadium has been chosen to host the [[NCAA Division II]] [[Cactus Bowl]] every year since 2001. The Cactus Bowl draws the best senior football players from [[NCAA Division II|Division II]] [[American football|football]] for [[National Football League|NFL]] scouting activities and culminates in a game pitting seniors from the East against seniors from the West.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.javelinaathletics.com/athleticFacilities.cfm?spcode=faci|title=Texas A&M Kingsville – Javelinas|publisher=Javelinaathletics.com|access-date=2010-11-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101108023836/http://www.javelinaathletics.com/athleticFacilities.cfm?spcode=faci|archive-date=November 8, 2010|url-status=dead|df=mdy}}</ref><ref name="cactusbowl.org">{{cite web|url=http://www.cactusbowl.org/about_us.aspx|title=About Us|publisher=Cactus Bowl|date=2001-01-12|access-date=2010-11-28|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100205085449/http://www.cactusbowl.org/about_us.aspx|archive-date = February 5, 2010|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url=http://web1.ncaa.org/web_files/stats/football_records/Attendance/2009.pdf | website=web1.ncaa.org | title=2009 National college football attendance (For All NCAA Men's Varsity Teams)}}</ref>

===Other sports===
[[File:TAMU-Kingsville college bus IMG 6077.JPG|225px|right|thumb|TAMU-Kingsville touring bus parked in front of the Lewis Education and Academic Center at [[Laredo Community College]] on April 30, 2012]]

The university offers no less than ten [[National Collegiate Athletic Association|NCAA]] sanctioned sports, including five men's sports and 5 women's sports. Facilities include [[Javelina Stadium]] for football, track, and field; the Gil H. Steinke Physical Education Center for volleyball and men's and women's basketball; [[Nolan Ryan]] Field for baseball; and Vernie & Blanche Hubert Field for [[softball]]. In addition, the campus maintains facilities for tennis, soccer, [[racketball]], swimming, [[Diving (sport)|platform diving]] and other various indoor sports.

The Department of [[Kinesiology]] and the Office of Student Activities also provide competitive intramural sports activities for students at the university. Students can compete in basketball, [[flag football]], [[bowling]], [[softball]], soccer and other intramural sports hosted at the school. Many of these intramural sports leagues are hosted in the new Student Recreation Center that opened during the Spring 2010 semester.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>

==Traditions==
[[File:Tamukclassring001.png|thumb|right|Javelina class ring for 2008]]

===Current===
{{prose|section|date=February 2012}}
* '''School colors''': The school's official colors are Blue and Gold. These colors are reflected around the campus. They are seen in the uniforms of athletes, coaches, and band members. They are also found on flags, school apparel and are proudly worn during sporting events.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.tamuk.edu/publications/graphic_standards/logos/|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100527175845/http://www.tamuk.edu/publications/graphic_standards/logos/|url-status=dead|title=Office of Marketing and Communications |archivedate=May 27, 2010|website=www.tamuk.edu}}</ref>
* '''Mascot''': The [[Peccary|Javelina]] is the official mascot of Texas A&M University–Kingsville. The mascot is paraded during official school events and games. Over the years, various mascots named Henry, Henrietta, Little Henry, Scrappy and Porky have held the honor as an official mascot. The current mascot is named Porky III.<ref>Hunter, Cecilia Aros, and Leslie Gene. "Texas A&M University-Kingsville." Arcadia Press, 2000. p.116-117</ref>
* '''Alma mater''': The official song of the university is ''Hail AMK''.
* '''Bell chimes''': Every quarter-hour, the bell chimes can be heard from atop College Hall. At the top of the hour, additional strokes will indicate the time of day. At the close of the school day, the tower will play the Alma Mater.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.tamuk.edu/news/bulletin/1999/march/chimes.html|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20041112094551/http://www.tamuk.edu/news/bulletin/1999/march/chimes.html|url-status=dead|title=New chimes add to campus tradition |archivedate=November 12, 2004|website=www.tamuk.edu}}</ref>
* '''School songs''': The official fighting song for TAMUK is ''Jalisco'' and is played by the band following every [[touchdown]]. In addition, the ''Javelina Victory March'' is played after every [[Field goal (American and Canadian football)|field goal]] or [[Conversion (gridiron football)|extra point]]. Other songs are played during the games, often followed by a chant of “''Go Hogs Go!''”<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.javelinaalumni.org/downloads.htm|title=Javelina Alumni Association|publisher=Javelinaalumni.org|date=2001-08-14|access-date=2010-11-28|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120802152735/http://www.javelinaalumni.org/downloads.htm|archive-date=August 2, 2012|df=mdy-all}}</ref>
[[File:BonfireTAMUK.jpg|thumb|right|Homecoming Bonfire at Texas A&M University-Kingsville]]
*
* '''Tailgate party''': A [[tailgate party]] is hosted in the northeastern parking lot of Javelina Stadium before each home [[American football|football]] game. These gatherings have become a normal part of Javelina football games and attract thousands of fans.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.javelinaathletics.com/TailgateCentral.cfm|title=Texas A&M Kingsville – Javelinas|publisher=Javelinaathletics.com|access-date=2010-11-28|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110713091821/http://www.javelinaathletics.com/TailgateCentral.cfm|archive-date=July 13, 2011|df=mdy-all}}</ref> The [[tailgate party]] is open to the public and many student organizations, clubs, and surrounding businesses around the area choose to participate with lots of food, drinks, and music.
* '''Hoggie Days''': The official and mandatory [[Orientation week|freshmen orientation]] of the university occurs prior to the beginning of each fall or spring semester. Events are designed to help students and parents become familiar with the traditions, procedures and experiences of life at Texas A&M University–Kingsville.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://osa.tamuk.edu/orientation/index.shtm|title=New Student Orientation|publisher=Osa.tamuk.edu|access-date=2010-11-28|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100530012827/http://osa.tamuk.edu/orientation/index.shtm|archive-date=May 30, 2010|df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://osa.tamuk.edu/orientation/|title=New Student Orientation|publisher=Osa.tamuk.edu|access-date=2010-11-28|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101210024132/http://osa.tamuk.edu/orientation/|archive-date=December 10, 2010|df=mdy-all}}</ref>
* '''Mesquite Groove''': Every year, the [[KTAI]] radio station hosts a concert series at the stage in the Mesquite Grove located on the southern portion of the campus.<ref>{{cite web|title=Six Alumni Inducted Into KTAI FM 91.1 Hall of Fame During Station's 40th Anniversary Banquet|url=https://www.tamuk.edu/news/2010/april/ktai_banquet/|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100603191339/http://www.tamuk.edu/news/2010/april/ktai_banquet/|archive-date=June 3, 2010|access-date=May 27, 2010}}</ref>
* '''Miss TAMUK pageant''': Each spring, the Office of Student Activities holds a themed scholarship [[Beauty contest|pageant]]. Female students compete for the title to become representatives of the university at community and school sponsored events. Past winners include [[Eva Longoria]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://osa.tamuk.edu/|title=::Welcome to the Memorial Student Union and Activities Webpage|publisher=Osa.tamuk.edu|access-date=2010-11-28|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100724215002/http://osa.tamuk.edu/|archive-date=July 24, 2010|df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://perezhilton.com/?p=69996|title=Eva Longoria Goes Back To School|date=September 24, 2009 |publisher=PerezHilton.com|access-date=2010-11-28}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://javelinajournalism.blogspot.com/2008_02_13_archive.html|title=Javelina Journalism: 02/13/08|publisher=Javelinajournalism.blogspot.com|date=2008-02-13|access-date=2010-11-28}}</ref>
* '''Freshman night out''': Each fall, the incoming [[freshman]] class is encouraged to attend dinner with the various [[Faculty (teaching staff)|faculty]] and [[Employment|staff]] of the university at one of the university dining halls. The purpose of this event is to allow incoming [[freshmen]] to have an opportunity to become familiar with many of the professors at the school.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://freshmannightout.blogspot.com/|title=Freshman Night Out @ TAMUK|publisher=Freshmannightout.blogspot.com|access-date=2010-11-28}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.tamuk.edu/universitycollege/javelinafirstyear.html|title=Unknown}}{{Dead link | date=October 2024 | fix-attempted=yes}}</ref>
* '''Class ring''': The school has an official class ring. Graduating seniors are encouraged to order their rings and attend a special ceremony shortly before graduation.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://osa.tamuk.edu/ring/history.shtm|title=The Javelina Ring|publisher=Osa.tamuk.edu|access-date=2010-11-28|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100530020148/http://osa.tamuk.edu/ring/history.shtm|archive-date=May 30, 2010|df=mdy-all}}</ref>
[[File:FallCarnival2009.jpg|thumb|right|Fall Carnival on University Blvd]]
*
* '''Army ROTC''': The University is the proud home of Javelina Battalion, an official Army ROTC program. Cadets who complete the Army ROTC course at TAMUK become commissioned officers in the U.S. Army. In addition to coursework and sanctioned activities, the cadets of Javelina Battalion present colors during official school functions. Javelina Battalion upholds several internal traditions, including the firing of “Old Smokey” (prior to 1965, cadets fired a cannon known as "Little Jav") during home football games as well as sponsoring the Military Ball each year since 1975.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tamukrotc.com/|title=> Texas A&M University Kingsville > Javelina Battalion|publisher=Tamukrotc.Com|access-date=2010-11-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101207234813/http://www.tamukrotc.com/|archive-date=December 7, 2010|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref name="tamukrotc.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.tamukrotc.com/cadet_life.aspx|title=Cadet Life|publisher=Tamuk Rotc|access-date=2010-11-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090730064250/http://www.tamukrotc.com/cadet_life.aspx|archive-date=July 30, 2009|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref>
* '''Honor Code''': In the effort to encourage academic and scholastic purity, students at Texas A&M University–Kingsville are expected to abide by the Javelina [[Academic honor code|Honor Code]]. The Principles of the Javelina Honor Code include five fundamental values that must be adhered by students, including ''honesty'', ''trust'', ''fairness'', ''respect'' and ''responsibility''.
[[File:Tamukdriveinmovie001.jpg|thumb|right|Students enjoy a [[Drive-in theater|Drive-In movie]] in the western parking lot of Javelina Stadium]]
* '''Honor Pledge''': The accompanying Javelina Honor Pledge states, "''As a student of Texas A&M University-Kingsville, I pledge to conduct myself honorably and to uphold high standards in all academic work, and to adhere to all of the values set forth in the Javelina Honor Code.''"<ref>{{cite web|url=http://osa.tamuk.edu/dean/honorcode.shtm|title=Office of the Dean of Students-Texas A&M University Kingsville|publisher=Osa.tamuk.edu|access-date=2010-11-28|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100530155815/http://osa.tamuk.edu/dean/honorcode.shtm|archive-date=May 30, 2010|df=mdy-all}}</ref>
* '''Business Etiquette Dinner''': During the fall and spring semesters, students are expected to attend a special dinner that provides training in formal dinner manners and protocol. This entertaining black tie event has become a staple of the TAMUK experience.
* '''Rush Week''': This is the official recruiting method of the various Greek societies found at the university. During Rush, the fraternities and sororities set up recruitment stations around campus in order to promote their organizations.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://osa.tamuk.edu/greeks/index.shtm|title=Greek Life|publisher=Osa.tamuk.edu|access-date=2010-11-28|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101219021857/http://osa.tamuk.edu/greeks/index.shtm|archive-date=December 19, 2010|df=mdy-all}}</ref>
* '''Moon Festival''': This annual celebration in the courtyard of the Memorial Student Union Building kicks off the various Asian Pacific Heritage events around the campus. Visitors are treated to Asian food, visuals and entertainment that celebrates the cultures of Asia.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.tamuk.edu/news/2010/march/asian_pacific_heritage/|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100609062002/http://www.tamuk.edu/news/2010/march/asian_pacific_heritage/|url-status=dead|title=Campus news and events |archivedate=June 9, 2010|website=www.tamuk.edu}}</ref>
* '''Holiday decorations''': Prior to the November [[Thanksgiving]] holiday, students, faculty and staff are invited to assist in decorating the campus for the winter holidays.

==Notable alumni==
{{alumni|date=February 2016}}
[[File:Eva Longoria Cannes 2015.jpg|thumb|right|150px|Eva Longoria]]
[[File:Roberto Garza.jpg|thumb|right|150px|Robert Garza]]
[[File:Ricardo Sanchez2.jpg|thumb|right|150px|General Ricardo Sanchez]]
*[[Mike Adams (pitcher)|Mike Adams]], MLB pitcher, [[Texas Rangers (baseball)|Texas Rangers]]
*[[Elsa Alcala]], judge of the [[Texas Court of Criminal Appeals]]; former Houston prosecutor and state and intermediate appeals court judge<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.txcourts.gov/cca/about-the-court/judges/judge-elsa-alcala.aspx|title=Judge Elsa Alcala|publisher=txcourts.gov|access-date=December 19, 2014}}</ref>
* [[Johnny Bailey (American football)|Johnny Bailey]], retired [[NFL]] [[running back]]
* [[Sid Blanks]], retired NFL running back, [[Houston Oilers]] and the [[New England Patriots]]. First African American player in the [[Lone Star Conference]]
* [[Michael T. Boyd]], [[Emmy Award]]-winning costume designer for film and television
* [[Laura Canales]], Tejano singer, known as the "Queen of Tejana music"<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.javelinaalumni.com/news.cfm?Id=16|title=Javelina Alumni|publisher=Javelina Alumni|access-date=2010-11-28|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110713091635/http://www.javelinaalumni.com/news.cfm?Id=16|archive-date=July 13, 2011|df=mdy-all}}</ref>
* [[Juan Castillo (American football)|Juan Castillo]], [[NFL]] Coach, [[Baltimore Ravens]] offensive line coach
* [[James Crumley]], crime novelist, author of ''The Last Great Kiss'' and other works
* [[Jorge Diaz (American football)|Jorge Diaz]], retired NFL offensive lineman, [[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]], [[Dallas Cowboys]]
* [[Earl Dotson]], retired [[NFL]] [[offensive tackle]] for the [[Green Bay Packers]]
* [[Ramón H. Dovalina]] (B.S. and M.S.), former president of [[Laredo Community College]]
* [[Mike Dyal]], retired [[NFL]] [[tight end]]
* [[George Floyd]], best known for being a [[Murder of George Floyd|fatal victim of police brutality]], and the inspiration behind both [[List of George Floyd protests in the United States|national]] and [[List of George Floyd protests outside the United States|international]] protests, he transferred to Texas A&M University–Kingsville in 1995 and played basketball for the school but left before graduating.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Wallace|first=Danielle|date=June 4, 2020|title=Hundreds, including Al Sharpton, Eric Garner's mom, mourn at George Floyd memorial in Minneapolis|url=https://www.foxnews.com/us/george-floyd-memorial-minneapolis-al-sharpton-eric-garner-mother|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200604180305/https://www.foxnews.com/us/george-floyd-memorial-minneapolis-al-sharpton-eric-garner-mother|archive-date=June 4, 2020|access-date=April 4, 2021|website=Fox News|language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Carmen Lomas Garza]], artist
* [[Roberto Garza]], retired [[NFL]] [[offensive lineman]], [[Atlanta Falcons]], [[Chicago Bears]]
* [[Raquel González (wrestler)]], [[professional wrestler]] for [[WWE]]
* [[Darrell Green]], [[Pro Football Hall of Fame]]r, retired [[cornerback]] for the [[Washington Redskins]]
* [[Don Hardeman]], retired [[NFL]] [[running back]], [[Houston Oilers]] and [[Indianapolis Colts#The NFL Baltimore Colts|Baltimore Colts]]
* [[Al Harris (cornerback)|Al Harris]], [[NFL]] [[Cornerback]] for the [[Green Bay Packers]]
* [[Dwight Harrison]], retired [[NFL]] [[cornerback]], [[Denver Broncos]], [[Buffalo Bills]] and [[Oakland Raiders]]
* [[David Hill (tight end)|David Hill]], retired [[NFL]] [[tight end]], [[Detroit Lions]] and [[Los Angeles Rams]]
* [[Jim Hill (American football)|Jim Hill]], retired NFL player for the [[Green Bay Packers]] and [[San Diego Chargers]], Sports anchor at [[KCBS-TV]] in Los Angeles
* [[Armando Hinojosa]], sculptor
* [[Rubén Hinojosa]], Member of the [[United States House of Representatives|U.S. House of Representatives]] from [[Texas's 15th congressional district|Texas's 15th District]]<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://www.rubenhinojosa.com/biography.html | title=Rubén Hinojosa - Biography |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100826194111/http://www.rubenhinojosa.com/biography.html| archive-date=August 26, 2010}}</ref>
* [[Tom Janik]], former [[American Football League]] safety and punter, [[Denver Broncos]], [[Buffalo Bills]] and [[New England Patriots]]
* [[James Jefferson (gridiron football)]], retired [[NFL]] [[Defensive back]], [[Seattle Seahawks]]
* [[Levi Johnson]], retired [[NFL]] [[cornerback]], [[Detroit Lions]]
* [[Randy Johnson (quarterback)|Randy Johnson]], (June 17, 1944 – September 17, 2009) was an American football player. He was the starting quarterback for the [[Atlanta Falcons]] in their inaugural season of 1966. In 1974 he played with [[The Hawaiians (WFL)|The Hawaiians]] of the [[World Football League]].
* [[Eva Longoria]], actress and model
* [[Maurice Lukefahr]], agricultural scientist, known for research into plant resistance to insect pests
* [[Al Matthews (American football)|Alvin Matthews]], retired [[NFL]] [[cornerback]], [[Green Bay Packers]], [[San Francisco 49ers]]
* [[Texas National Guard|Jose S. Mayorga]], Current Adjutant General of Texas National Guard<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ng.mil/ngbGomo/library/bio/1629.htm|title=Major General Jose s. Mayorga|publisher=Ng.mil|access-date=2010-11-28|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719052230/http://www.ng.mil/ngbGomo/library/bio/1629.htm|archive-date=July 19, 2011|df=mdy-all}}</ref>
* [[Jermane Mayberry]], [[NFL]] Guard for the [[New Orleans Saints]]
* [[Eddie Moten]], [[Arena Football League|AFL]] Cornerback for the [[Orlando Predators]]
* [[Dwayne Nix]], College Football Hall of Famer
* [[Ernie Price|Ernest Price]], retired [[NFL]] [[defensive lineman]], [[Detroit Lions]] and [[Seattle Seahawks]]
* [[John Randle]], retired [[NFL]] Hall of fame [[defensive tackle]]
* [[Richard Ritchie]], [[College Football Hall of Fame]]r, Quarterback. Attorney at Law.
* [[Pete Saenz]], B.S. and MS., mayor of [[Laredo, Texas|Laredo]], Texas
* [[Ricardo Sanchez]], U.S. Army [[Lieutenant general (United States)|Lt. General]]
* [[Kimberly Scott|Kimberly A. Scott]], actress
* [[Heath Sherman]], retired NFL running back for the [[Philadelphia Eagles]]
* [[Gil Steinke]], NFL defensive back for the [[Philadelphia Eagles]]. Longtime coach of the Javelinas. [[Texas Sports Hall of Fame]], deceased
* [[Carlos Truan]], member of both houses of the [[Texas Legislature]] from 1969 to 2003
* [[Gene Upshaw]], Pro Football Hall of Famer, former Executive Director of the [[National Football League Players Association]], deceased
* [[Buzz Williams]], current head coach of the Texas A&M men's basketball team

==Notes==
{{noteslist}}

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
{{Commonscat}}
* {{Official website}}
* [https://javelinaathletics.com/ Athletics website]

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