'Welcome Back Bobcats' kits now available for local businesses

Posted by Jayme Blaschke
University News Service
August 10, 2012

With the start of the fall semester just around the corner, Texas State University and the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce are again teaming up to provide free “Welcome Back Bobcats!” kits for local businesses.

The kits contain valuable information about marketing to Texas State students, including a poster, calendar of fall events and marketing tips. Residence hall move-in begins Aug. 18 with classes starting Aug. 27.

“Texas State University enhances the quality of life in San Marcos in many ways. The campus contributes to the natural beauty of the city, and its presence as an academic center attracts students, visitors and industrial clients,” said Brian Bondy, president of the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce. “The university helps the local economy to grow and insulates it from severe economic impacts.”

According to the latest economic impact study, Texas State students spend more than $166 million every year in Hays County, which equates to approximately $5,000 per student.

“The San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to partner with the Texas State Office of Community Relations to make students feel more welcome and a part of the San Marcos community,” Bondy said. “Although they may not be permanent residents, students make significant contributions while they are here, through spending, volunteerism and as employees.”

The chamber believes that if students are made to feel more welcome in the community, they will take greater pride and responsibility as citizens during their tenure as residents.

Included in the free packet are an 11x17 color poster, a calendar of major fall Texas State events to help with marketing planning, and other tips on showing “Bobcat Pride.”

The packets are sponsored through an annual collaboration between the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce and the Texas State Office of Community Relations.

A limited number of packets are available at the chamber office. Kits are also available at the Office of Community Relations, Alumni House, or by emailing communityrelations@txstate.edu or calling (512) 245-9645.