New online learning experience invites Texans and newcomers alike to explore the state’s rich history, earn a unique credential and help shape its future ahead of the 2036 Texas Bicentennial.

KERRVILLE, Texas, October 27, 2026 — Schreiner University is inviting people across the state to discover what it truly means to be a Texan through Bona Fide Texan, a statewide online learning and certification program designed to deepen understanding of Texas history, culture and civic identity.

Offered through Schreiner University’s Center for Talent and Workforce Development, the program brings together expert perspectives, historical materials and engaging video lessons to explore the people, events, traditions and institutions that have shaped Texas. Participants who successfully complete the program earn the Bona Fide Texan credential, recognizing their commitment to understanding the state’s past and taking an informed role in its future.

“People take care of what they love,” said Dr. Donald S. Frazier. “We want people to love Texas, so we figured we would offer a program that tells the whole, complicated, and ultimately inspiring story of our state in an easy and approachable way.”

Built around the university’s E Pluribus Texas educational series and Dr. Frazier’s online Texas history course at Schreiner University, the program makes university-level historical learning accessible to a broader audience. The experience encourages participants to look beyond familiar historical figures and events to understand the diverse communities, cultures and experiences that have contributed to the Texas story.

The program welcomes lifelong Texans, recent arrivals, educators, working professionals and community leaders. Rather than defining Texas identity by birthplace or length of residency, Bona Fide Texan emphasizes knowledge, connection and a shared responsibility for the state’s future.

Participants complete the program entirely online through Schreiner University’s Canvas learning management system. Lessons feature videos from the E Pluribus Texas series and additional educational content, followed by short assessments that allow participants to demonstrate their understanding. The self-paced format has no completion deadline, and Texas educators are available to answer questions and provide guidance throughout the experience.

To earn the Bona Fide Texan designation, participants must achieve a score of more than 700 out of 1,000 possible points. Successful participants receive the Bona Fide Texan credential and are recognized through a public certification ceremony.

Texas educators who complete the program also earn 20 hours of Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credit awarded through Schreiner University, providing an additional opportunity for professional development.

Beyond individual certification, Bona Fide Texan is intended to build a statewide community of informed and engaged citizens as Texas approaches its Bicentennial in 2036. By connecting historical understanding with contemporary civic responsibility, the initiative encourages participants to consider how the decisions made today will influence the Texas inherited by future generations.

The program also reflects Schreiner University’s commitment to extending educational opportunities beyond traditional degree programs and providing accessible lifelong learning experiences for communities throughout Texas.

Registration for Bona Fide Texan is available online. Participants can learn more and enroll through Schreiner University’s Center for Talent and Workforce Development at https://thetexascenter.org/bonafide-texan/.

About Schreiner University

Founded in 1923, Schreiner University is a private university in Kerrville, Texas, affiliated by choice and covenant with the Presbyterian Church (USA). Schreiner University’s mission is to provide students with a personalized, integrated, and holistic educational experience that prepares them for meaningful work and purposeful lives in a changing global society. Learn more at schreiner.edu.