Victory Star
The newest Texas State University Victory Star is located atop the J.C. Kellam Building on the San Marcos Campus. This Victory Star was installed in 2024 during the university’s 125th anniversary year.
The color of the star will change from its standard white lighting to maroon after a Bobcat victory. Special holidays and events, such as commencement, will be commemorated by changing the star color.
The star is a tradition that dates back to 1936 when it first appeared as a Christmas decoration on a water tower where the chemistry building stands today. In the 1940s, the star was found in storage by a night watchman. It was returned to the water tower and dubbed the Victory Star to be lighted when the Bobcats won a game.
For many years, the Victory Star sat atop the 11-story Jackson Hall — then the tallest building in Hays County — where it could be seen for miles. In 2019, that star was removed from Jackson during roof repairs and renovations.
In 2018, a new version of the Victory Star was located on the north side of Strahan Arena at the University Events Center.
Today, the Victory Star has found a permanent home atop the J.C. Kellam Building for all to see.