SFA University
Stephen F. Austin State University will host the groundbreaking ceremony for the Arnold Center for Entrepreneurship building at 10:30 a.m. June 22 in front of the Janice A. Pattillo Early Childhood Research Center on campus. This rendering depicts the northwest approach to the future ACE building.
June 17, 2026 - Stephen F. Austin State University will host the groundbreaking ceremony for the Arnold Center for Entrepreneurship building at 10:30 a.m. June 22, 2026 in front of the Janice A. Pattillo Early Childhood Research Center.
Parking available in research center parking lot located at 2428 Raguet Street.
Ashley and Greg Arnold will join representatives from SFA and The University of Texas System as well as state and federal elected officials for the ceremony. Students, faculty, staff and alumni are also expected to attend the event, which is open to the public.
Made possible through the generosity of the Arnold family and support from the UT System and the state of Texas, the center will serve as a hub for innovation, workforce development, applied research and economic growth across East Texas. The two-story, 39,170-square-foot building will offer immersive and flexible spaces tailored to modern entrepreneurial education, including simulated learning environments, dedicated coworking spaces and innovation labs. It also will feature a multipurpose LED volume production studio for collaborative projects and entrepreneurial ventures across SFA’s areas of study. Substantial completion is anticipated by mid-2027.
For more information on the building, visit gosfa.com/ACEceremony. For more information on the center, visit sfasu.edu/ACE.
Submitted by Misty Wilburn
Stephen F. Austin State University is continuing its strong enrollment momentum, with summer 2026 headcount currently up 6% and semester credit hours increasing 7% compared to summer 2025. To apply for summer II and fall courses, visit sfasu.edu/apply.
June 15, 2026 – Stephen F. Austin State University is continuing its strong enrollment momentum, with summer 2026 headcount currently up 6% and semester credit hours increasing 7% compared to summer 2025.
While enrollment remains open and the university's preliminary summer census date is July 9, current trends position SFA for its first summer enrollment increase since 2020 and one of the largest summer enrollment gains in recent university history.
"Students are increasingly choosing SFA because they recognize the value of a degree that combines academic quality, personalized support and strong career outcomes," said Dr. Neal Weaver, SFA president. "These preliminary summer numbers build on the momentum we experienced throughout the past academic year and reflect the confidence students and families have in the direction of this university."
Preliminary data indicate that, in addition to a 6% increase in student headcount, SFA has generated 7% more semester credit hours than last summer. Credit hour production, a key indicator of student engagement, plays an important role in state funding.
According to Dr. Kent Willis, senior vice president for enrollment and student engagement, the increase reflects both student demand and institutional efforts to create flexible pathways to degree completion.
"Summer enrollment provides students with an opportunity to stay on track, accelerate their progress toward graduation and take advantage of flexible course options," Willis said. "We're seeing strong participation from continuing students and transfer students who are using the summer term to move forward academically."
For students like Billy Stewart, a kinesiology junior from Clarksville, the summer session has been a game changer.
“I was able to knock out two core classes online while working part time,” he said. “It’s helping me graduate on time and save money.”
The university continues to offer a wide range of summer II courses, with classes beginning July 6. Students can still register for available undergraduate and graduate courses offered online, in hybrid formats and on campus.
"There is still time for students to enroll in summer II courses," Willis said. "Whether a student wants to complete a core requirement, lighten a future course load or make additional progress toward a degree, there are excellent opportunities available."
The preliminary summer enrollment gains continue SFA's pattern of growth. Earlier this year, the university reported its first spring-to-spring enrollment increase since 2019 and its largest spring enrollment increase since 2010. In fall 2025, SFA welcomed the largest freshman class in university history, and applications and admissions for fall 2026 continue to outpace last year's record-setting levels.
To apply for summer II and fall courses, visit sfasu.edu/apply.
Nearly 50 students from Stephen F. Austin State University’s Nelson Rusche College of Business participated in an intensive, faculty-led study abroad program in Spain and Portugal May 10-21. Pictured is their tour of Toledo, Spain.
June 3, 2026 - Nearly 50 students from Stephen F. Austin State University’s Nelson Rusche College of Business participated in an intensive, faculty-led study abroad program in Spain and Portugal May 10-21.
Led by Dr. Matthew Lindsey, chair of the Department of Management and Marketing, and Dr. Mikhail Kouliavtsev, chair of the Department of Economics and Finance, the experiential learning trip bridged classroom business theory with real-world international operations across the Iberian Peninsula.
“Programs like this are vital because they push our students to apply academic frameworks in entirely unfamiliar environments,” Lindsey said. “Watching them move past their comfort zones to engage directly with global executives and evaluate complex, historic business models is incredibly fulfilling. They return to Nacogdoches with an elevated level of self-reliance and a global mindset that will give them a distinct competitive edge in the job market.”
The journey took students from the grand boulevards of Madrid and the sandstone streets of Salamanca to the historic coastal hubs of Porto and Lisbon. Throughout the tour, students engaged in a rigorous itinerary that combined high-level corporate site visits, historic trade exploration and hands-on cultural immersion workshops.
Students received an exclusive guided facility tour and participated in a mentorship session at the Amazon España corporate headquarters in Madrid with SFA alumna Ana Romero ’16, who works at the international corporate center.
“With the Amazon visit, it was very motivating to see what your corporate life can look like if you really apply yourself in college and in the early years of your career,” said Gavin Bock, sophomore management major from Wimberley. “It was cool seeing how an SFA alumna was able to be successful.”
Ashley Hale, senior finance major from Orange, noted how the corporate encounter reshaped her career ambitions.
“We had the opportunity to speak with a former SFA student who now works at Amazon in Madrid, and hearing her experiences was very inspiring,” she said. “It was motivating to see someone from our university successfully working internationally and adapting to a global business environment. Personally and professionally, this trip encouraged me to think more globally about my future.”
In addition to modern e-commerce giants, the curriculum emphasized how historic firms leverage heritage as a competitive advantage. Academic site visits included a production and curing analysis at the Tienda Julián Martín Iberian ham factory in Guijuelo, a deep dive into centuries-old bilateral trade agreements at the Burmester winery in Vila Nova de Gaia, and a study of traditional, quality-driven manufacturing at the centennial Conservas Pinhais & Cia sardine cannery in Matosinhos.
The structural contrast between fast-paced American commercialism and the deeply relational, intentional Iberian business paradigm challenged students to shift their perspectives on global management.
“Before this trip, most of my understanding of international business came from textbooks and classroom discussions,” said Colby Feece, senior management major from Sachse. “Actually experiencing it in person gave me a much clearer perspective. The trip helped me realize that successful business internationally is not only about numbers or efficiency but also about understanding cultural expectations and communication styles. In many European markets, tradition and authenticity can be just as important as efficiency and scale.”
The profound personal growth that stems from navigating international environments was a recurring theme among the participants, many of whom were traveling outside the United States for the first time. From analyzing tile painting at the historic Fábrica Sant'Anna in Lisbon to navigating complex metropolitan transit systems, the trip served as a laboratory for building professional agility.
“Seeing businesses and institutions in Spain and Portugal showed me that business is global,” said Travis Gilliland, junior entrepreneurship major from Spring. “Personally, I learned that I can handle being outside my comfort zone better than I thought. Professionally, I learned that I need to think bigger. To be successful internationally, I would need to listen first, learn the culture and adapt my strategy instead of assuming the American way is always best.”
By directly connecting East Texas students with global markets and thriving alumni abroad, the Rusche College of Business continues to fulfill its mission of creating world-ready professionals.
“Overall, this study abroad experience gave me memories and lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life,” said Makenna Burkhalter, senior international business major from Rusk. “I loved sharing this experience with such a great group of people, and it made me proud to be a Lumberjack.”
For more information on upcoming study abroad opportunities and global business programs at SFA, visit sfasu.edu/business.
Cutline: Nearly 50 students from Stephen F. Austin State University’s Nelson Rusche College of Business participated in an intensive, faculty-led study abroad program in Spain and Portugal May 10-21. Pictured is their tour of Toledo, Spain.
May 20, 2026 –– Stephen F. Austin State University’s Arnold Center for Entrepreneurship has debuted SFA 100, a new initiative designed to identify and celebrate the 100 fastest-growing Lumberjack-led businesses in the world. Nominations and applications for the 2027 rankings are currently open and will be accepted through November 1, 2026.
The SFA 100 recognizes the success, innovation and contributions of the top 100 alumni-owned businesses that embody the legacy, values and entrepreneurial spirit of SFA and ACE. ACE established the SFA 100 in 2025 in collaboration with Greg Price ’80, chief financial officer of Decisio Health in Houston and an angel investor and former judge of SFA’s Lumberjack Entrepreneurship Competition.
“The SFA 100 is a transformative milestone for the Arnold Center for Entrepreneurship and our entire university community,” said Dr. Todd Brown, associate vice president of academic affairs. “We are incredibly excited to shine a spotlight on the visionary alumni successful entrepreneurial ventures. We are not only honoring their hard work but also inspiring the next generation of SFA students. It is a privilege to finally recognize these leaders and showcase the profound economic impact our graduates are making across the world.”
The SFA 100 rankings will be calculated based on each applicant's compound annual growth rate in sales or revenue over a three-year period spanning 2023, 2024 and 2025.
To be eligible for the SFA 100, companies must meet specific longevity, revenue and leadership criteria. For this inaugural ranking of companies, each nominee or applicant must have been in continuous operation for at least five years as of December 31, 2025, and have generated revenues of at least $200,000 every fiscal year since January 1, 2023.
Furthermore, the business must be Lumberjack-founded, owned or led. Eligible leaders must hold a C-suite title, such as CEO, chair or managing partner, or own a majority stake of 50% or more. Former students who attended SFA but did not formally complete their degrees remain eligible to apply.
The honored companies will be announced publicly at an SFA awards ceremony, increasing businesses’ visibility by sharing company names, logos, Lumberjack leadership names, contact information, locations and other self-reported information.
“This initiative is more than just a ranking,” said Dr. Hollie Smith, ACE executive director of community partnerships. “By fostering these partnerships, we are creating a powerful network of Lumberjack entrepreneurs and innovation. As an alumnus, I’m so excited to connect with fellow alumni. We are eager to celebrate their resilience and success while building new opportunities for mentorship and growth that will benefit our students and the entire SFA community for years to come.”
While waiting to hear back on the SFA 100, alumni are encouraged to add their businesses to the Lumberjack Alumni-Owned Business Directory, which can be found online at sfasu.edu/ace/business-directory.
The inaugural SFA 100 list will be unveiled during a special awards celebration in April 2027. Honored business leaders will participate in a luncheon revealing the rankings, deliver keynote speeches, engage in class presentations and network with college deans and SFA leadership.
To ensure the utmost integrity and financial privacy, all baseline financial data is submitted directly to an independent accounting firm, Carr, Riggs & Ingram. The financial data is kept strictly confidential; neither SFA nor The University of Texas System will have access to the raw numbers, and they will receive only the final, verified rankings for the awards.
To fill out an application for your business, visit gosfa.com/SFA100_application. To nominate a business, visit gosfa.com/SFA100_nomination.
To learn more about the SFA 100, visit sfasu.edu/ace/sfa100, or contact Smith at hsmith@sfasu.edu or (936) 468-2988.
Following a nationwide search, Stephen F. Austin State University has appointed Dr. Elisabeth Ploran as the inaugural dean of the College of Health Professions, effective July 1. Ploran comes to Nacogdoches from Hofstra University, a private university in Nassau County, New York, where she currently serves as professor and associate dean for student success and belonging.
May 19, 2026 - Following a nationwide search, Stephen F. Austin State University has appointed Dr. Elisabeth Ploran as the inaugural dean of the College of Health Professions. Ploran will begin her tenure in July, coinciding with the launch of the new college.
Announced in December, SFA’s College of Health Professions will unite programs in nursing, psychology, kinesiology, athletic training, public health, dietetics and nutritional sciences, counseling, social work, speech-language pathology and family sciences to create SFA’s largest and most interdisciplinary academic unit. The new college reflects SFA’s continued commitment to meeting the evolving needs of students, employers and the East Texas region.
“It is not often that a university reinvents its academic structure so dramatically — but it is clear that President (Dr. Neal) Weaver and Provost (Dr. Jordan) Barkley have a common goal in elevating SFA to even greater heights than it already holds,” Ploran said. “It is an incredible honor to be entrusted with the formation of the vision and initial launch of this new college.”
Ploran said she was impressed with the SFA community throughout the dean selection process.
“It is clear that this is a momentous occasion not just for me but for a large portion of SFA faculty and staff,” she said. “I look forward to shaping that energy into the high-impact center for rural health care innovation that I know the college can become over the coming years.”
A native of western Massachusetts with over a decade of experience in higher education, Ploran comes to Nacogdoches from Hofstra University, a private university in Nassau County, New York, where she currently serves as professor and associate dean for student success and belonging in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. In her role, Ploran supports students throughout their academic journeys. Her responsibilities include student outreach and recruitment, orientation programming, and assistance with academic processes such as grade appeal and study abroad approvals. Ploran also developed modules for first-year students and pre-matriculation workshops for incoming nursing and medical students. In addition, she launched the Student Alliance for Innovation and Leadership advisory board to consult on belonging, traditions, branding and events.
“As someone centered in psychology and neuroscience, I have been constantly in search of a university that understands the strong connections between those sciences and the broader allied health disciplines,” Ploran said. “The addition of nursing and social work to the mix at SFA represents an opportunity to cross-train many of the individuals who are the first to meet someone in need of help with lessons in audiology, speech therapy, kinesiology, dietetics and so many other areas. In return, those allied health fields can receive cross-training in warning signs and causes for concern from their frontline partners. I see so many amazing opportunities to strengthen and streamline conversations between the fields that will ultimately support better health outcomes for those treated by our graduates.”
Prior to her appointment as associate dean, Ploran served as the chair of Hofstra’s Department of Psychology, where she supervised approximately 50 faculty and staff members and over 700 students between multiple degree programs; developed a new interdisciplinary major in human factors and usability studies with collaborators in the departments of Engineering, Writing Studies and Disability Studies; and led the revision of promotion and tenure standards to better promote faculty involvement in community engagement and service work, among many other accomplishments. Additionally, she was the university’s first faculty-in-residence from 2015 to 2019, and she served as president of the Hofstra chapter of the American Association of University Professors.
An accomplished scholar, Ploran has authored and coauthored numerous publications, been affiliated with grants totaling over $1.5 million and been involved in accreditation and other service work throughout her career.
Ploran earned bachelor’s degrees in psychology and political science from Drew University and a doctoral degree in psychology with a concentration in cognitive neuroscience from the University of Pittsburgh. She also served as a postdoctoral fellow researching human factors and applied cognition at George Mason University.
“Dr. Ploran is an accomplished administrator who has maintained her faculty identity while serving as a campus leader,” said Dr. Jordan Barkley, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs at SFA. “She is skilled in balancing teaching, scholarly activity and service alongside meeting the needs of students. Her background in neuropsychology along with her leadership experiences and demonstrated focus on student success position her well to lead our new college. I look forward to working alongside Dr. Ploran as she and her colleagues cement SFA’s position as a key health professions resource for East Texas.”
Broadcast journalism students from Stephen F. Austin State University’s Department of Media and Communication, led by Dr. Casey Hart, professor in the Department of Media and Communication, toured Houston Public Media and ABC13 in Houston, gaining firsthand insight into the career opportunities awaiting them after graduation.
May 12, 2026 - Broadcast journalism students from Stephen F. Austin State University’s Department of Media and Communication recently toured major media outlets in Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston, gaining firsthand insight into career opportunities awaiting them after graduation. The tours were provided, in part, by grant funding from the Academic Affairs AID Grant.
Broadcast journalism students from Stephen F. Austin State University’s Department of Media and Communication, led by Dr. Casey Hart, professor in the Department of Media and Communication, toured the WFAA-TV station and AMS Pictures in Dallas. The tours were provided, in part, by grant funding from the Academic Affairs AID Grant.
Led by Dr. Casey Hart, professor in the Department of Media and Communication, 13 students participated in the trip to Dallas-Fort Worth during the fall semester, and nine students participated in the Houston trip during the spring semester.
“These trips gave our students a chance to step inside real newsrooms and production studios, see how the work actually happens and connect with professionals in meaningful ways,” said Dr. John Allen Hendricks, professor and chair of the department. “We’re truly grateful to the Academic Affairs AID Grant through the Office of the Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs for making these kinds of hands-on, career-shaping experiences possible for our students.”
The students who participated in the Dallas-Fort Worth trip toured the WFAA-TV station and AMS Pictures.
WFAA-TV, one of Texas’ oldest television stations, is known for its strong local and investigative journalism and produces multiple daily newscasts. Natalie Haddad, a 2017 SFA graduate and Emmy award-winning reporter, is a staff member.
At AMS Pictures, a Dallas-based production company, the students learned about the importance of helping clients reach their goals through creative storytelling.
“At WFAA-TV, our students learned about the history of broadcasting in Texas, toured the cutting-edge broadcast facilities, sat in on a live broadcast, learned how investigative journalism works and discussed the ethical considerations connected with investigative journalism,” Hart said. “They also learned about how the news, sales, commercial production and management teams all work together in the media industry. Finally, they had the opportunity to network with many WFAA personalities and insiders, hopefully opening doors to our broadcast journalism majors.
“Since our program balances news production with corporate and commercial production, AMS Pictures was a perfect company for our students to tour,” Hart continued.
According to Faith Fuller, the tour provided a glimpse into her future.
“It was cool to see my career goals in the real world,” Fuller said. “I liked seeing real people work in an environment that I’ve only ever been able to imagine. It opened my eyes to a lot, and I was able to see what positions I might be more interested in when I graduate.”
Students on the Houston trip toured Houston Public Media and ABC13.
Houston Public Media operates KUHT-TV, a PBS affiliate and the nation’s first public television station, and KUHF-FM, an NPR member station focused on news, talk and public affairs. Students used studio equipment, observed a live broadcast and spoke with reporters covering Artemis II at the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center.
Students also visited ABC13, one of Houston’s oldest and top-rated stations known for breaking news coverage. Iris Rios, a 2016 SFA graduate, is a digital producer and assignment editor at ABC13.
“Our students were treated to a full behind-the-scenes tour of Houston Public Media’s operations,” Hart said. “They learned a lot about the history of public broadcasting and how public broadcasting operates differently than commercial broadcasting.
“At ABC13, our students received a tour of ABC’s top-tier broadcast facilities,” he continued. “They were in-studio for a live newscast and even interacted with top on-air talent. Then, they went behind the scenes to learn more about how news directors and assignment editors work closely with the community to learn about news as it happens.”
For Alex Enriquez, the tour helped him establish the type of environment in which he wants to work following graduation.
“It was a great opportunity learning the different departments each station had and how their business entity differs from each other,” Enriquez said. “Knowing what they have to offer and how they work taught me that I should know what type of company I want to work for and not just the position I want to get into.”
For more information about SFA’s Department of Media and Communication, visit sfasu.edu/media-communication.
March 27, 2026 –– Need help improving your balance? Stephen F. Austin State University’s Department of Allied Health Studies is hosting a fall-prevention workshop from 9:30am to noon April 20 in the Baker Pattillo Student Center Twilight Ballroom.
The free workshop is for adults 65 years and older and is limited to 50 participants. Those who apply by April 10 and are selected for the workshop will be notified by April 14.
According to 2025 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 37 million falls occur each year among adults 65 and older. About 9 million result in emergency department visits, and nearly 1 million lead to hospitalization due to fall-related injuries.
“As we live longer, maintaining functional fitness through regular physical activity, including balance, aerobic and strength training, is essential for preserving independence and mobility,” said Dr. Mihae Bae, associate professor of allied health studies at SFA and coordinator of the workshop. “This one-day community-focused intervention is designed to be practical and accessible.”
Developed in response to 2025 data collected from a local senior center, the workshop addresses a strong demand for balance, strength and fall-prevention programs. Research faculty members and graduate students from SFA’s James I. Perkins College of Education will collect more data during this workshop. Data includes participants’ feedback to evaluate improvements in both static and dynamic balance and to measure increased confidence in independent mobility through activities using balance pads and resistance bands.
SFA’s kinesiology, aging studies, athletic training, audiology, public health and school psychology programs will be represented at the workshop, and a medical professional will present on functional fitness and health.
Participants will receive a complimentary balance pad, resistance band and lunch. To apply, complete the form at gosfa.com/fallprevention by April 10.
This workshop was funded through a Competitive Research Grant awarded by SFA’s Office of Research and Graduate Studies. For more information, email Bae at baem@sfasu.edu.
March 19, 2026 – Students in Stephen F. Austin State University’s horticulture program and the SFA Horticulture Club will host the annual student-run Spring Plant Fair from 8am to 3pm Saturday, April 11 at the SFA Plantery, located at 1924 Wilson Drive behind the Agriculture Building.
Plants available for purchase include a variety of native perennials, edibles, annuals, houseplants and succulents. Pancakes will be offered for free with a donation encouraged.
The Plantery is a student botanic garden program rooted within SFA’s Department of Agriculture where students grow and raise plants in the microfarm, Sprout, as well as the greenhouses and the teaching gardens around the Agriculture Building.
“Our theme this year is ‘Thistle While You Work’ to celebrate the efforts to share the love of plants with our East Texas community,” said Dr. Jared Barnes, associate professor of horticulture and steward of the Plantery. “We welcome people to come visit the Plantery and buy plants since all proceeds support student learning.”
In the event of rainy weather, the plant fair will be held inside the Plantery greenhouse.
For more information, contact Barnes at barnesj@sfasu.edu. To learn more, follow the horticulture program on Instagram @sfahorticulture.
February 23, 2026 - Stephen F. Austin State University announces the appointment of Dr. Chad Thomas as the institution’s associate vice president and dean of students. Thomas will assume the role April 30.
An East Texas native with ties to The University of Texas System, Thomas has more than 15 years of experience in higher education. Most recently, he served as senior associate vice president for student affairs at UT Dallas in Richardson.
“We’re excited to welcome Dr. Thomas to SFA,” said Dr. Kent Willis, senior vice president for enrollment and student engagement. “Throughout the interview process, it was clear that his combination of skills, dedication to student success and unique background make him an excellent fit for our campus and student body. I look forward to collaborating with Dr. Thomas as we continue to advance the SFA experience.”
In his leadership role at UT Dallas, Thomas was responsible for numerous operational areas and special initiatives within the Division of Student Affairs, including campus partnerships, strategic planning, assessment, fundraising, legislative affairs and audit and compliance.
Previously, Thomas was the director of UT Dallas’ Student Media department and provided leadership for a variety of special projects for Student Affairs, including professional development initiatives and awards and recognition programs for staff. He also served for two years as a deputized student conduct officer at the university and later assumed responsibility for the student conduct appeals process.
“SFA is a special place, and the university is in the middle of a transformative period, having recently joined the UT System and experienced record-setting enrollment for undergraduates,” Thomas said. “When I visited campus, I knew right away that university leaders, including Dr. Weaver and Dr. Willis, are sincerely committed to student success. I’m looking forward to supporting our students and am focused on developing strong partnerships with faculty and staff across the institution.”
After receiving his bachelor’s degree from UT Austin in 2002, Thomas earned his master’s degree from Ohio University in 2013 and his doctoral degree in public affairs from UT Dallas in 2019. Before joining UT Dallas, he worked as an editor and reporter at several newspapers in Texas. He also spent three years as a public school teacher.
Thomas is married to SFA alumna Erin Roth Thomas ’05 & ’07, a lyric mezzo-soprano who regularly performs with groups across the country, including the Santa Fe Desert Chorale, the Portland (Oregon) Opera Company and Dallas’ Orpheus Chamber Singers.
In addition to announcing Thomas’ appointment, Willis thanked the SFA dean of students search committee members, including faculty representatives Dr. Gary Wurtz, dean of the Micky Elliott College of Fine Arts, and Dr. Justin Blount, interim associate dean of the Nelson Rusche College of Business.
The University of Texas System Board of Regents approved Stephen F. Austin State University’s strategic plan, campus master plan and future Lumberjack Crossing residence hall during its February 18-19 quarterly meeting in Austin.
February 20, 2026 – The University of Texas System Board of Regents approved Stephen F. Austin State University’s strategic plan, campus master plan and future Lumberjack Crossing residence hall during its February 18-19 quarterly meeting in Austin.
“Together, these actions represent a significant milestone in SFA’s continued integration into the UT System and establish a unified roadmap guiding the university’s academic priorities, student experience and long-term campus development,” said Dr. Neal Weaver, SFA president.
Campus and strategic planning
SFA’s campus master plan provides a long-range framework to guide physical development during the next 10 years. Through extensive stakeholder engagement and future-focused analysis over the past 18 months, the campus master plan steering committee, led by John Branch, associate vice president for facilities services and campus operations, developed the plan in partnership with Freese and Nichols, an engineering, planning and consulting firm based in Fort Worth. The main plan includes a utility master plan, technology master plan, campus recreation master plan, intercollegiate athletics master plan, landscape guidelines, condition assessments and campus space utilization strategy updates.
SFA’s strategic plan was developed by representatives from academic and administrative areas across the institution under the guidance of Damon Derrick, vice president, general counsel and chief of staff.
Both planning efforts were conducted in parallel, ensuring alignment among SFA’s academic vision, operational priorities and future physical environment. Collectively, the approved plans establish a framework to:
- support student success and the full Lumberjack experience
- prioritize modern learning, research and engagement spaces
- strengthen infrastructure, mobility and campus connectivity
- and guide long-term decision-making as projects and resources advance.
According to Weaver, this milestone reflects the shared vision and dedication of the entire SFA community as the university moves confidently into its second century.
“I am deeply grateful to the committee members whose leadership guided the development of these plans and to the students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members whose engagement helped shape them,” he said. “Together, we are establishing a bold, future-focused roadmap that will transform this campus and the East Texas region over the next 10 years, expand opportunity for our students, and position SFA for lasting success within The University of Texas System.”
Lumberjack Crossing residence hall
Regents also approved adding the Lumberjack Crossing student housing project to the UT System Capital Improvement Program.
The proposed four-story residence hall, planned for the area directly east of the Lumberjack Landing residence hall and south of Pineywoods Dining Hall, will provide housing and support amenities for up to 336 students. It will include double-occupancy rooms with suite-style bathrooms, accessible accommodations, lounge and study spaces, staff offices and student collaboration environments. The project also will expand campus cooling capacity with a new chiller and supporting infrastructure planned for the university’s central plant.
The approximately 100,000-square-foot residence hall is expected to be funded through Revenue Financing System bond proceeds, with a total project cost of $70 million. Construction is anticipated to begin in 2026 with substantial completion targeted for 2028, increasing on-campus housing capacity and supporting future enrollment growth.
For more information on SFA’s campus master plans, visit sfasu.edu/masterplan.
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