History
In Fall 1969, Lamar University opened its first extension center in Orange, Texas, with classes held in the old Tilley Elementary School. In 1971, the Texas Legislature passed legislation enabling Lamar University to operate a two?year educational center, thus removing the extension status and allowing students to take two full years of coursework on the Orange campus. In 1971, the building was destroyed by fire, and a spirited community-wide fundraising effort netted more than $250,000 for the purchase of the former Sabine Supply Company building, located at 410 Front Street in Orange. Classes began at this location in Fall 1971. Since that time, facilities, enrollment, and course offerings have grown steadily. Academic programs are offered in four divisions: Liberal Arts, Mathematics and Science, Business and Technology, and Allied Health.
The Texas Legislature authorized the creation of the Lamar University System in 1983. In 1991, the Texas Legislature provided degree-granting authority to Lamar University-Orange. Lamar University-Orange, along with sister institutions in Port Arthur and Beaumont, was merged with the Texas State University System (TSUS), effective September 1, 1995. With system offices located in Austin, TSUS also includes Angelo State University, Sam Houston State University, Southwest Texas State University and Sul Ross State University.
During the 1999 legislative session, Lamar University-Orange was officially renamed Lamar State College-Orange.
Lamar State College-Orange currently has a student body totalling more than 2,000. A variety of two-year academic programs is offered, leading to associate of science degrees. These programs will transfer to four-year institutions for students seeking baccalaureate degrees. Several technical/occupational programs are available which lead to associate of applied science degrees or certificates of completion.
Governance
A board of nine regents, appointed by the governor and approved by the
state senate for terms of six years, governs the Texas State University
System. The Board of Regents delegates the direction of college affairs
to the presidents, campus administrative officers, and faculty.
