Orientation and Opening Keynote
Open Datathon Orientation and Keynote
Date: February 6, 2026
Time: 2 - 5pm
Location: Alkek 250, Teaching Theater (San Marcos); RRC Library (in-person with Zoom option)
The University Libraries is excited to host the third annual Open Datathon during International Love Data Week 2026. The Datathon encourages participants to leverage open data for insights that drive effective decision-making and fosters interdisciplinary collaboration by sharing data and project outcomes with the TXST community. The Orientation and Keynote session welcomes all Texas State University students, faculty, and staff to engage in an opening talk featuring a keynote speaker setting the stage for an inspiring week. Attendees from the Round Rock Campus (RRC) are encouraged to participate in person at the RRC Library or virtually via Zoom. Participants will have time for team building and networking, and gear up for the Datathon competition kick-off. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of open data and collaborative exploration! (Light refreshment will be provided).
Save the date and time here. No Registration is required.
Stay tuned!
Information Sessions: 2026 TXST Open Datathon Q&As
TXST Open Datathon Pre-event Q&As
Session 1: January 23, 2026, 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm; RSVP here.
Session 2: January 30, 2026, 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm; RSVP here.
Location: Zoom.
Prepare for the 2026 Open Datathon at a Q&A session. This session will give you an overview of the event, resources regarding open data, the topics of the Datathon challenges. You will also be able to know the expectations as well as and the scoring rubric for the final digital work and presentations. Please come on and join us!
Workshop: Introduction to TXST Dataverse Repositories
Learn how Texas State University’s Dataverse repositories support research data management and sharing. This session provides an overview of the platform, its features, and best practices for depositing, organizing, and accessing datasets to enhance collaboration and compliance with data policies.
February 9, 2026, 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm, Zoom
Registration will open soon. Stay tuned!
Workshop: Good Practices in Managing Data on Spreadsheets
February 10, 2026, 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm,
Location: Zoom.
This workshop is designed to equip the audience with essential skills and knowledge for effectively managing data within spreadsheet applications (i.e., Excel). Attendees will delve into best practices for organizing, structuring, and maintaining data in spreadsheet formats. By exploring good practices, attendees will gain valuable insights into creating reliable datasets, ensuring seamless collaboration, and promoting efficient data management workflows using spreadsheet tools.
Registration will open soon. Stay tuned!
Staff Event: Connecting with TXST Data
Wednesday, February 11, 2026
One-Day Hybrid Staff Event offered by the Department of Data, Analytics, & Institutional Research
Dive into the world of TXST’s institutional data and discover how it supports our shared mission across campus! This engaging hybrid event invites staff to explore key data resources, gain practical insights, and connect with colleagues who are passionate about making data work for TXST. Hosted by the Office of Data, Analytics, and Institutional Research in collaboration with the University Libraries’ 2026 Love Data Week.
Details coming soon!
Workshop: Do's and Don'ts for Research Posters
February 12, 2026, 12 am - 1:00 pm, Location: Zoom
Discover essential tips for creating effective research posters. This session covers best practices for design, layout, and content, along with common mistakes to avoid, ensuring your poster communicates your research clearly and professionally.
Registration will open soon. Stay tuned!
Daily Virtual Open Office Hours
Love Data Week and Open Datathon Virtual Office Hours
February 07-12, 2026, 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm (online via Zoom)
Join us for daily virtual office hours following the kickoff of Love Data Week 2026 and the TXST Open Datathon! During this 2026 Love Data Week at TXST, each day from 12–1 PM, our data specialists and student consultants will be available to answer questions, provide guidance on data management, analysis, and visualization tools, Q&As for Open Datathon, and help troubleshoot issues related to open data and code sharing. These informal drop-in sessions are designed to support TXST researchers and students working with data, Whether you're participating in the Datathon or simply want to learn more about best practices for working with data, we’re here to help!
Open Datathon Final Submission Instructions
February 12, 2026, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm (Hybrid)
Join in-person: ALK 452, DataSpace Lab
Join online: Zoom
This session provides participants a step-by-step guide to successfully prepare and submit their final projects for the 2026 TXST Open Datathon via the TXST Dataverse Repository. We will cover submission requirements, formatting guidelines, and best practices for presenting your data and findings. Participants will also be able to view examples of outstanding projects from last year’s competition to inspire and guide their submissions. Additionally, we’ll address any questions to ensure your projects meet evaluation criteria. Don’t miss this essential session to set your work up for success!
Datathon Judging and Close Ceremony
Open Datathon Project Presentation, Judging, and Closing!
February 13, 2026, Time: 1 pm - 4 pm, Alkek Library, RM 440/441/442
RSVP here.
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Join us for an exciting session where participants will present their projects for judging and awards at Alkek Library. During this time, Room 452 (DataSpace) will be open as a networking and rehearsal space—perfect for connecting with peers and preparing for your presentation.
The event concludes with a Closing Ceremony from 4:00–5:00 PM, celebrating innovation and collaboration. All TXST students, staff, and faculty are welcome!
Note: Attendees from RRC are encouraged to join in-person at RRC Library. Details coming soon!