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Special Collections and Archives Guide

Explore primary sources, university history, and significant archival research topics.

Student Publications & Media

Student media has long played a role in documenting life at Texas State University. Two of the most comprehensive and long-running student publications, The University Star and The Pedagog, offer powerful insight into the Texas State University student experience. This page highlights student-created resources that reflect campus culture, community, and student voices over time.

Tips for Researching With Student Media

  • Start with a specific event or year to narrow your search
  • Use the Star or Pedagog to explore:
    • University milestones
    • Student movements and activism
    • Campus development and traditions
    • Sports, arts, and alumni stories
  • Browse and compare across multiple dates or time periods.

Newspaper: University Star

The University Star, originally The Normal Star, has documented campus life, student voices, and university events since 1911. As Texas State's student-run newspaper, the Star reflects over a century of evolving culture, education, and student perspective. Today, it continues to serve as a vital record of campus and regional history.

A Brief History of the Star

  • 1911: The Normal Star is founded by students, including Fred Adams, who served as its first business manager.
  • 1923: Becomes The College Star with the school's transition to Southwest Texas State Teachers College.
  • 1969: Renamed The University Star to reflect university status.
  • 2005: Retains name despite university renaming renaming to Texas State.

Fun Fact: In an oral history document, Fred Adams recalled launching the Normal Star and shared memories of early campus life and principal Thomas G. Harris.

Where to Access the Star

Digital Access:

Physical Access:

  • All years (1911-present) are available on microfilm; Call number AS36.T45 C6
  • Many issues are available in the Special Collections and Archives
  • Schedule an appointment to view physical copies of available issues

Yearbook: The Pedagog

The Pedagog, Texas State University's official yearbook, was published annually from 1904 through the late 1990s. Rich with student portraits, club photos, candid shots, and artistic layouts, The Pedagog offers a visual and cultural history of the university and its students across the decades.

A Brief History of The Pedagog

  • 1904: First issue of The Pedagog is published, reflecting the school’s mission as a teacher-training institution.
  • 1904–1990s: Yearbooks are published annually, documenting student life, organizations, academics, athletics, and major campus events.
  • Late 1990s: Print publication ends as digital platforms emerge and student interest shifts.

Fun Fact: The name Pedagog comes from the Greek paidagogos, meaning “teacher” as a nod to the university’s early focus on training rural school teachers.

Where to Access The Pedagog

Digital Access:

  • View digitized yearbooks in the TXST Digital Collections
  • Search by year, student name, or browse chronologically

Physical Access:

  • Print copies are available in the Special Collections & Archives
  • Schedule an appointment to view physical copies in the Alkek Reading Room