Texas A&M University-Kingsville grew out of the teacher college or "normal school" movement that swept Texas and the nation in the early 1900s. Chartered in 1917 but not opened until 1925 because of America's entry into World War I, the University is the oldest continuously operating public institution of higher learning in South Texas. Shortly after beginning life as South Texas State Teachers College, its role was expanded to embrace a wider array of programs. As its mission has expanded, its name has changed to reflect its wider scope. Its first name change, to Texas College of Arts and Industries, came in 1929. In 1967 the name changed to Texas A&I University. The University became a member of the Texas A&M University System in 1989 and in 1993 changed its name to Texas A&M University-Kingsville to reflect that membership. Texas A&M-Kingsville is South Texas' greatest university, offering more academic programs and degrees, providing better learning and living facilities, doing more research, awarding more scholarships and producing more successful graduates than any other college or university in the region. Texas A&M-Kingsville seeks to provide quality undergraduate and graduate programs for students of all ages through a judicious blend of liberal and career education programs. The emphasis is on providing an intellectually challenging education reflecting high standards of academic performance. Texas A&M-Kingsville is dedicated to serving an ethnically and culturally diverse population. The University is committed to its mission of teaching, research, and service in South Texas for the advancement of knowledge and of regional development. Texas A&M University- Kingsville is designated a StormReady institution by the National Weather Service.