Texas A&m University-commerce Mesquite Metroplex Center
Mesquite, TX – Citing rising operational costs and shifting academic priorities, Texas A&M University-Commerce will cease operations at its Mesquite Metroplex Center by the end of the 2024-2025 academic year. The closure, announced earlier today, leaves hundreds of students scrambling for alternative options and raises concerns about access to higher education in the region.
The Metroplex Center, a key extension of the university serving working adults and students seeking flexible learning environments, faces an uncertain future. This decision is set to disrupt educational pathways for current students and impact community partnerships developed over years.
Impact on Students and Programs
The university confirmed that all degree programs currently offered at the Mesquite location will be phased out. No new students will be admitted to programs at the Metroplex Center effective immediately.
Existing students will be offered advising to transfer to the main Commerce campus, other A&M System universities, or alternative institutions. University officials stated they are committed to supporting students through this transition.
However, many students expressed frustration with the limited timeframe and the potential disruption to their academic progress. “This is completely uprooting my life,” said Sarah Miller, a nursing student at the Metroplex Center. “I chose this campus because it was close to my home and work. Now I have no idea what I’m going to do.”
Affected Departments and Services
The closure impacts several departments, including the College of Business, the College of Education and Human Services, and the College of Humanities, Social Sciences and Arts. Student support services, such as advising, tutoring, and career counseling, will also be discontinued at the Mesquite location.
University spokesperson, Emily Davis, stated that faculty and staff at the Metroplex Center will be offered opportunities to relocate to the Commerce campus or other positions within the A&M University System. Details regarding severance packages are still being finalized.
“We understand this decision is difficult for our students, faculty, and staff,” Davis said. “We are committed to providing resources and support to help them navigate this transition.”
Financial Considerations
The university attributed the closure to increasing operational costs associated with maintaining the Mesquite facility. Enrollment figures at the Metroplex Center have reportedly declined in recent years, further straining the budget.
According to financial reports, the Metroplex Center required significant subsidies from the main campus to remain operational. The university aims to reallocate these resources to support core academic programs and infrastructure improvements on the Commerce campus.
Critics argue that the university should have explored alternative cost-saving measures before deciding to close the Metroplex Center. Some community leaders suggest that a public-private partnership could have helped sustain the facility.
Community Reaction and Political Scrutiny
The announcement has sparked outrage among local community leaders and elected officials. State Representative John Smith issued a statement condemning the decision, calling it a "betrayal of the community's trust."
Representative Smith vowed to hold the university accountable and explore legislative options to prevent similar closures in the future. A town hall meeting is scheduled for next week to address community concerns and gather feedback.
Local businesses that relied on the Metroplex Center for workforce development and partnerships are also expressing concern. The Mesquite Chamber of Commerce plans to meet with university officials to discuss potential solutions.
The Future of the Metroplex Center
The future of the Mesquite Metroplex Center building remains uncertain. The university is exploring options for the property, including selling or leasing the facility to another educational institution or private entity.
No concrete plans have been announced yet. The university is open to considering proposals that would benefit the community.
The closure of the Texas A&M University-Commerce Mesquite Metroplex Center marks a significant loss for the region. The long-term impact on access to higher education in Mesquite remains to be seen.
Next Steps and Ongoing Developments
Texas A&M University-Commerce will hold a series of information sessions for students and employees to address their concerns and provide guidance. The university is also working with other institutions to facilitate transfer agreements for impacted students.
Community leaders and elected officials are planning to meet with university officials to discuss potential mitigation strategies and explore alternative uses for the Metroplex Center. Further updates will be provided as they become available.
The university Board of Regents is scheduled to review the closure plan at its next meeting. This will be a crucial opportunity for stakeholders to voice their concerns and advocate for the needs of the community.
