Texas A&M University-Commerce has changed its name to East Texas A&M University, effective immediately. The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents approved the name change on Thursday, November 7, 2024. The school is not changing the Lions nickname.
East Texas was an integral part of the school’s name since its inception and various name changes. It was previously named East Texas Normal College (1889-1917), East Texas State Normal College (1917-1923), East Texas State Teachers College (1923-1957), East Texas State College (1957-1965), and East Texas State University (1965-1996). Upon joining the Texas A&M University System in 1996, the school’s name was changed to Texas A&M University-Commerce.
The Lions moved from NCAA Division II to Division I to join the Southland Conference beginning with the 2022 FCS season and will become eligible for the FCS Playoffs in 2026. ETAMU went 5-6 overall and 3-3 in the Southland in its first season followed by a 1-9 overall record and a 2-5 Southland campaign in 2023. The Lions are currently 1-8 overall and 1-3 in the Southland with three games left in the 2024 season and will host Stephen F. Austin on Saturday, November 9.
Photo Credit to East Texas A&M University Athletics
