Texas State celebrates alumnus George Strait (’79) as Kennedy Center Honoree

Texas State University is celebrating alumnus George Strait, the legendary country and western singer, on his selection to the 48th class of the Kennedy Center Honors, the nation’s highest award in the performing arts. 

Strait graduated from TXST in 1979 with a bachelor of science degree in agriculture. In 2006 the university awarded Strait an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa.

“When I first heard that Dr. George Strait was named a 2025 Kennedy Center nominee, I felt an immense sense of pride,” said TXST President Kelly Damphousse. “He is known the world over as the King of Country Music, but at TXST he’s always been a member of the Bobcat family. This is a well-deserved honor that is long overdue and we celebrate Dr. Strait’s recognition.” 

For nearly five decades, the Kennedy Center Honors have recognized and celebrated individuals whose unique artistic contributions have shaped the world. Recipients have each had an impact on the rich tapestry of American life and culture through the performing arts. Whether in music, dance, theater, opera, motion pictures or television, each Kennedy Center Honoree has a unique place in the fabric of the U.S. and their influence has inspired audiences from all walks of life.  

"He is known the world over as the King of Country Music, but at TXST he’s always been a member of the Bobcat family. This is a well-deserved honor that is long overdue and we celebrate Dr. Strait’s recognition.” 

After getting his start performing with the Ace in the Hole Band during his college days, Strait has gone on to sell more than 100 million recordings, earning more than 60 major industry awards, and is the only artist in history to score a Top 10 country hit every year for more than three decades. Offstage, his philanthropy has raised tens of millions of dollars in support of military families and children’s causes. 

The Kennedy Center Honors tribute to George Strait will air on CBS on Tuesday, Dec. 23, at 8 p.m. ET/PT (7 p.m. CT), and will also be available to stream on Paramount+.