One University—Two Entities—Joining Under a Single Advisory Board—One Executive Director
As a regional university serving the citizens of West Texas and the Panhandle, and a member of The Texas A&M University System, operating under the spirit of the Land-grant mission West Texas A&M University (WTAMU) is associated with two important entities: the Texas Panhandle Heritage Foundation (TPHF) that guides the production of the TEXAS Outdoor Musical and the Panhandle- Plains Historical Society/Museum (PPHS/PPHM). Both share a common interest in promoting an understanding of and appreciation for Texas history and the “several pursuits and professions in life” in Texas generally and the Panhandle, specifically. The role of the combined-group-entity is to preserve the cultural foundation of the Texas Panhandle.
A family-friendly show set against an authentic tapestry of history, the show’s fictional characters bring to life the stories, struggles and triumphs of the settlers of the Texas Panhandle in the 1800's. The Beautiful Pioneer Amphitheatre in the majestic Palo Duro Canyon comes alive once again this summer for the 57th season of the TEXAS!
From dinosaurs to conquistadors, you'll find it all in Texas' largest history museum. Relive the stories of courage and hardship, victory and defeat over the past 14,000 years. Step in and step back to the Old West in a life-size Pioneer Town, view one of the Southwest's finest art collections, experience the exciting history of the petroleum industry, and more.
WTAMU is a significant repository of historical records, artifacts, and relationships to our extended community. It has responsibility for preserving and disseminating insights embedded in the TPHF and the PPHS/PPHM. The two entities and WTAMU are marked important to, and a part of, the future of our region and state. Both enterprises are in a unique place, and if thoughtfully coordinated and promulgated, statewide value accrues to students of every stripe and locale.
Creating the Cultural Foundation of the Texas Panhandle (CFTP) as an advisory body would provide a unique opportunity to demonstrate civic pride and service to the Panhandle, and more importantly, provide insight to the state more widely, and garner shared support and service from statewide. The advisory board of the CFTP organization is an appointed membership that represents business, industry, civic, and education from various statewide leadership perspectives.
Overall, marrying the boards of the TPHF and PPHS/PPHM creates one well-functioning, regionally driven entity. The role of the combined-group-entity is to preserve the cultural foundation of the Panhandle and the state. This effort would extend the purpose and reach of WTAMU, the TPHF, and the PPHS/PPHM, and the Palo Duro Canyon as one of the most significant natural landmarks and a powerful seedbed of culture and history in our great state.