Lamar University is a state-owned institution headquartered in Beaumont, Texas, United States. Founded in 1923, and employing approximately 2,970 individuals, the university operates in the field of higher education as a public university. Lamar University has been a member of the Texas State University System since 1995, having previously served as the flagship institution of the former Lamar University System. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and is named for Mirabeau B. Lamar, the second president of the Republic of Texas.