Midland College to Host Annual West Texas Symposium of HistoryApril 10, 2025

Midland College is hosting the 2025 West Texas Symposium of History on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at the Marie Hall Academic Building on the Midland College campus. This year’s event, which is free and open to the public, will not only feature prominent guest speakers and scholars but also highlight the hard work and achievements of Midland College’s students.

The West Texas Symposium of History, made possible by the generous support of the Henry Foundation, is an annual event that brings together scholars, students, and community members to engage in thoughtful discussions and explore the history of the West Texas region. 

“West Texas has a rich history, from its Indigenous roots to its evolving role in shaping the broader national narrative,” said Dr. Todd Houck, Henry Chair and Professor of History at Midland College. “Each year, we bring a variety of in-depth presentations that offer fresh perspectives on the region’s cultural, political, and social developments.”

Symposium Program

The day will begin at 8:30 a.m. with registration and a light breakfast in the Marie Hall Atrium. Formal presentations will begin promptly at 9:00 a.m. with opening remarks by Dr. Houck.

The symposium’s speaker lineup includes:

• Dr. Miguel Juarez, University of Texas at El Paso “New Deal, New Friendship: Artists José Aceves and Tom Lea Jr.”

• Adebisi Saubana, Midland College
  “The Opioid Crisis Among College Students in West Texas, Permian Basin”

• Rebecca Bell, Author and Historian
  “Attack on the Fall of the Brazos – a Girl, a Boy and a Tribal Chief”

• Eduardo Galvan, Midland College
  “My Fellow Puerto Ricans from the Texas Borderland”
  
  
• Allison Williford, Midland College “Frontiersmen and Fracas on the Southwest Plains of Texas, 1836–1875”

The symposium will conclude with closing remarks at approximately 2:15 p.m.

Honors Poster Session and Student Awards

A key feature of the symposium is the Honors Poster Session, where Midland College students in history and government present their research. This session allows students to showcase their academic work and engage with faculty, peers, and community members, demonstrating not only their research findings but also their ability to communicate complex ideas.

In recognition of student achievement, prizes will be awarded to the top student presenters:

• 1st place: $300
• 2nd place: $200
• 3rd place: $100
• Honorable Mention: $50

These awards not only celebrate academic excellence but also encourage students to further their research and educational pursuits.

At Midland College, we are deeply committed to fostering student success and providing educational opportunities that enrich the community. Midland College is proud to offer an educational environment that encourages lifelong learning and serves individuals of all ages and backgrounds, preparing them for success in both academic and professional pursuits.