WT Bookstore Relaunched in Student-Led Effort

Copy by Chip Chandler, 806-651-2124, cchandler@wtamu.edu

CANYON, Texas — The West Texas A&M University Bookstore just got a digital makeover, thanks largely to students.

Students William Frobe and Haley Jackson headed up a recent relaunch of the bookstore’s website, www.wtbookstore.com, and its social media channels to make them considerably more user-friendly and appealing.

“We have evaluated comments not only from students but also from other users on our site, including alumni,” said Terry Nepper, director of bookstore operations. “What we learned was that many users found the site too hard to navigate, and because having satisfied customers is our priority, we knew that it was time for significant changes. Our students were brought in to make this happen because they understand what their generation is looking for and what marketing appeals most to capture their attention.”

Frobe, a public relations and advertising major from Stockholm, led the website relaunch, and Jackson, a junior public relations/advertising major from San Angelo, shot photos and videos that showcase the products in use.

“How much more effective is it to see a mug with steaming coffee, sitting on a side table, rather than just a plain thumbnail image?” Nepper said.

Displaying all of the bookstore’s merchandise on the site was a challenge, Frobe said.

“When I was designing the website, I was always thinking, ‘How can I show the WT community all the awesome gear we have to offer?’ So, for example, the new website includes a gallery of photos from around campus so Buff fans can see what our merchandise looks like on fans,” he said.

The revamped site makes it easier to find merchandise, and because the bookstore is now the official home of WT Athletics merchandise, it links directly to a second site showcasing all Under Armour-branded athletics items. UA is the official uniform supplier for all athletics teams.

“Both William and Haley have not only lived up to my expectations, they’ve gone beyond,” Nepper said. “When we collectively meet and throw around ideas, I have confidence they will not only respond, but take the plan and coordinate and put the end results together.”

Providing hands-on educational opportunities ties into the University’s focus on being a learning-centered school, a key principle of its long-term plan, WT 125: From the Panhandle to the World.

About West Texas A&M University

WT is located in Canyon, Texas, on a 342-acre residential campus. Established in 1910, the University has been part of The Texas A&M University System since 1990. With enrollment of more than 10,000, WT offers 60 undergraduate degree programs, 40 master’s degrees and two doctoral degrees. The University is also home to the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, the largest history museum in the state and the home of one of the Southwest’s finest art collections. The Buffaloes are a member of the NCAA Division II Lone Star Conference and offers 14 men’s and women’s athletics programs.

—WTAMU—