Congressman Tony Gonzales (TX-23) secured $1 million in funds for the Sul Ross State University’s Archaeology, Anthropology and Cultural Research Center, better known as the Center of Big Bend Studies (CBBS), during the 2022 budget process.

President Biden signed the budget into law on March 15, certifying these funds for Texas’ 23rd Congressional District.

The funding will be used to expand efforts to research and preserve areas of historical significance in the Chihuahuan Desert. The area is known to have played a major role in the development of Native American and other societies throughout Texas and the entire southwest, including prehistoric sites which have enabled advancements in the core understanding of human development.

“During my first year on the House Appropriations Committee, I fought hard to make sure projects in our district were prioritized in the budget,” Gonzales said. “This budget includes much-needed deliverables to our district and strong provisions for border security, our military, and our global allies and partners. As we look towards the appropriations process for Fiscal Year 2023, I will continue to look for more ways to make our federal dollars work for the district.”

Sul Ross University President Pete Gallego voiced his appreciation for Gonzales’ efforts.

“We are extremely grateful for the hard work and commitment Congressman Gonzales has shown Sul Ross,” Gallego said. “CBBS is doing amazing work and is just one of the many great departments across our campuses.”

Dr. Bryon Schroeder, Director of CBBS, noted that the funds will significantly impact the program’s research ability.

“We realize how fortunate we are to receive these funds,” said Dr. Bryon Schroeder, Director of CBBS. “It will greatly enhance our ability to research this understudied region. It is exciting to know our congressman values our district's rich cultural diversity and history.”