LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Laughlin Air Force Base and Sul Ross State University formalized a partnership to expand educational opportunities for Laughlin Airmen and their families through a Memorandum of Understanding signing ceremony June 25, 2025. The partnership will bring Sul Ross State University degree programs, classes and academic advising directly to the base through the Laughlin Education Center.
The ceremony, held at the Sul Ross campus in Del Rio, highlighted the program's value to Airmen and the local community.
The partnership aims to offer College-Level Examination Programs (CLEP) and DANTES Subject Standardized Tests (DSST) for Airmen who previously had to travel more than two and a half hours to take the test. Through the program, Sul Ross will work with Laughlin to offer a range of degree programs from associate's to master's level, tailored to the needs of the base population.
“Today’s agreement symbolizes our ongoing commitment to education, workforce development and community integration,” said Annette Shaw, 47th Force Support Squadron force development flight chief. “By aligning our missions with Sul Ross State University, we aim to create new educational opportunities for Airmen and their families, foster innovation and support the development of a full and highly skilled future ready force. This partnership is more than symbolic; it’s a strategic alliance. This will provide training opportunities, support veteran transitions and provide educational testing options. We look forward to a successful and impactful journey ahead”
Sul Ross State University President Dr. Carlos Hernandez echoed this sentiment.
“On behalf of Sul Ross State University, I want to express our heartfelt gratitude for the efforts to partner with your service men and women, your belief in the power of education, and we look forward to working closely with your team to serve the lifelong learners of this base.”
Sul Ross State University was founded in 1917 as a part of the Texas State University System and teaches over 1,900 students in the West Texas area. Campuses are in several towns and cities across the Border Region, including Del Rio, Eagle Pass, Alpine and Uvalde.
Details regarding specific degree programs and enrollment procedures will be released in the coming weeks. For more information, reach out to the Laughlin Education Office at education2@us.af.mil.