Heritage Magazine: Summer 2023

Your Game On! Get

A Message from the President

This edition of Heritage Magazine reflects tremendous optimism and excitement as our beloved Bearkats take their next significant step to a higher level—Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS)—athletics conference. Although we’ve competed at the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) Division I level for many years, the move up to the highest level of Division I play puts our football program on par with our other 16 Division I teams. The stories and highlights on the following pages communicate the vision, leadership, and dedication of the Sam Houston State University community that brought us to this exciting time.

On July 1, Bearkat Athletics officially moved into Conference USA. This day was a milestone for those involved in the two-year transition from our former FCS conference home and a springboard to an exciting future. Membership in Conference USA aligns with our new strategic plan. Two of our four strategic priorities include embodying a culture of excellence and elevating the reputation and visibility of SHSU. I’m excited that the Sam Houston State University story will be told on a bigger stage.

The transition and ultimate move to CUSA has already affected more than just Bearkat Athletics. Our move is changing the way people see Sam Houston State University as a whole. The change puts our university on the map for many who might not have heard about the university we love. More prospective students will learn of SHSU’s renowned academic programs, more corporations will consider sponsorships as the value of our new television exposure is calculated, and our coaches’ recruiting efforts will get a boost.

This move is a win-win. It’s a win for our students, alumni, Bearkat Athletics, our university, and our community. It demonstrates what we already know—that Sam Houston State can prove itself at the “Next Level.” #EatEmUpKats!

Duke Austin, Chairman

• Houston

Alan L. Tinsley, Vice Chairman

Charlie Amato

Sheila Faske

Sam Houston University Foundation Board of Trustees

Robert E. Hutson, President • Katy

• Madisonville

• San Antonio

• Rose City

Dionicio (Don) Flores

Russell Gordy

Stephen Lee

Tom Long

Russell S. Molina, Vice President • Houston

Ferne S. Frosch, Treasurer • Huntsville

C. Joel Michael II, Secretary

• Friendswood

• El Paso

• Houston

• Beaumont

• Frisco

William F. Scott

• Nederland

Kelvin Elgar, Student Regent

Brian McCall, Chancellor

• Beaumont

• Austin

E. Brooke Beierle • Stafford

Mia D. Gradney • Richmond

John M. Hoyt, Jr • Waco

Charles W. Jones III • Dahlonega, GA

Christopher L. Tritico, Sr. • Houston

Chief Marketing Officer and Public Information Officer

Jeff Harris

Associate Vice President

Russell Martinez

Editor Emily Binetti

Writers

Emily Binetti

Campbell Atkins

Mikah Boyd

Art Direction and Design

Amy Bass-Wilson

Photography

Justin Calhoun

Director of Digital and Analytics

Mauri Smith

Assistant Director of Digital and Analytics

Isaac Moen

Assistant Director Print Production

Lori Proctor

Every effort has been made to ensure the information contained in this issue is accurate. We apologize for any errors or omissions and ask that you bring them to our attention.

Please report any corrections to: Integrated Marketing Communications Box 2105 Huntsville, TX 77341- 2105 936.294.4406

heritage@shsu.edu

 Discover the Benefits of Giving Wisely shsu.plannedgiving.org.

FIELDING QUESTIONS: ATHLETICS DIRECTOR

TACKLES Q&A SESSION

with BOBBY WILLIAMS

Q+A

SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS

department has seen unprecedented growth in the 25-year tenure of athletic director Bobby Williams. Now, in the aftermath of the most unpredictable and transitional period in that span, Williams reflects on what led the Bearkats to join Conference USA (CUSA) and how they took the next step in collegiate athletics.

This is an exciting time for SHSU athletics as we prepare to officially transition into Conference USA. Can you talk about the specific process this move has entailed over the last couple of years?

If you had told me three years ago that we would go through what we have been going through with three different conferences, everything moving and changing in the NCAA and the pandemic, I wouldn’t have believed you. It’s been an unbelievable opportunity for us as we moved from the Southland Conference, which we had been in for so long, to the Western Athletic Conference. Then when we had the opportunity to join Conference USA, it was a big signal of where we were going as a university and especially where we were going as an athletic department.

What makes Conference USA specifically a perfect fit for these programs?

We have to go back and look at how we’ve grown as a university. Since I’ve been here, the growth of the university from an enrollment standpoint, the research status we’ve achieved, the brand recognition that I think we’ve played a positive part in, is all a big part of where we’re going in athletics. Most schools that are at where we’re at as a university are playing at the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) level. We wanted to make sure that we positioned ourselves to be in that situation to have an opportunity if a conference like CUSA came our way, and it did. That is one of the reasons they supported our membership: who we are as a university, our growth and all of the positive things we’ve done in athletics over the last 15 years.

The move presents a lot of new opportunities with new TV

contracts and chances for greater exposure for your programs. What will this, as well as October midweek scheduling in football, do for publicity and the credibility of all SHSU sports? With all the success we’ve had, especially at the national level in Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) football, there was still a national perception that we were not playing at the Division 1 level. The move to FBS has changed that in so many different ways. It has allowed us to be viewed differently and even view ourselves differently. It has enhanced our other 16 sports from that perspective in moving us forward in a positive way. That helped us because we had to create revenue opportunities, especially in the TV market, when we played for a national championship. We were playing on ABC and ESPN, but we weren’t generating any revenue from that. Now, with the

TV contract being in CUSA, we’re playing a major role in that. Our location by Houston and our brand recognition is a big positive for the conference and I think that’s why they saw value in our membership, and that was exciting. The midweek football games are a big part of that adjustment. I saw that as a positive, especially with our students, because we’ve had Thursday night football games in the past that were some of our highest-attended games that we’ve played on TV. This gives them an opportunity to come out Wednesday or Thursday night and creates an exciting atmosphere on campus. Anytime you have a full stadium, especially with your fellow students playing on national TV, it’s a great benefit to the university and our program.

Football will again play at NRG Stadium in Houston with a matchup against Air Force this

upcoming season and another against Texas State in a renewed rivalry matchup in 2024. What do these specific matchups bring in terms of excitement when playing at a world-class stadium such as NRG?

We wanted to make sure that we were having those games down there. It has become so important to the university, our alumni and athletic program. Even though we will not be competing against our rival, Stephen F. Austin University, we are embracing new rivalries and new opportunities. To have our first “home game” against Air Force Academy, a name brand service academy, is going to be extremely exciting, especially in the Houston area and for our alumni and all individuals who have served in the military over the years. And bringing back Texas State, who we had a longtime rivalry with in the past, will be very important in helping us get over that 30,000 in attendance mark.

Our fanbase really embraced that game in its last 11 years and we were probably selling 80 to 85 percent of the tickets down there. The stadium was always full of orange, and it will be even more so now.

Broadly speaking, how does this whole transition feed into student success and the overall success of the university from a reputation standpoint?

Our brand has expanded. We are well-respected nationally because there is a positive perception, and it is a reality, that we do things the right way, we win and we create a positive environment for student-athletes. We also represent the university at a high level, which I think the faculty, staff and students all appreciate. That’s a big part of what we need to be doing because it helps the university continue to grow from an enrollment standpoint, an academic standpoint and a brand recognition standpoint.H

See More. Learn More. Heritage Online!

Through our enhanced digital version of Heritage, designed to complement our print version, you will find even more information and interactive features, such as videos, and web links to keep you up to date on university news and your gifts at work.

Available at: shsu.edu/heritage.

bhumbleeginnings

April 1, 1923. Sam Houston joins the Texas Intercollegiate Athletic Association (TIAA), its first intercollegiate athletics conference affiliation. During the season, Sam Houston adopts “Bearkats” as the nickname for athletic teams.

North Texas, Southwest Texas and Stephen F. Austin as charter members of the Lone Star Conference.

intercollegiate affiliation by becoming a member of the Nat. Assoc. of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) .

April 2, 1906. Sam Houston fields its first athletic team in the sport of baseball.

October 6, 1912. Rice defeats Sam Houston 20-6 in the first football game ever played by either school.

January 29, 1918. Known then as “The Normals,” Sam Houston’s first basketball team defeats Alexander College 35-2 in the first game of an undefeated 7-0 season.

November 24, 1930. The Bearkats defeat Stephen F. Austin 20-0 in Huntsville to complete an undefeated (9-0-1) season and clinch the TIAA football championship for Sam Houston’s first conference title on the gridiron.

December 1, 1956. Sam Houston defeats Middle Tennessee 27-13 in the Refrigerator Bowl in Evansville, Ind., to complete the Bearkats’ only perfect football season (10-0).

Sam Houston Athletics Through the Years

1981 SH softball

12, 1964. The Bearkats and Concordia (Minn.) battle to a 7-7 tie in the NAIA finals in Augusta, Ga., as the Bearkats become NAIA Football National co-champs.

June 8, 1963. Fred Beene allows only three hits against Grambling as Sam Houston defeats the Tigers 2-1 to win the NAIA World Series Baseball National Championship in Emporia, Kansas.

November 29, 1979. The first Sam Houston women’s basketball team takes the floor as women’s varsity sports teams come under the umbrella of the Bearkat athletic department. The first women’s softball squad begins competition one year later.

May 28, 1981. A game-winning double in the bottom of the seventh inning gives Sam Houston a 1-0 victory over Emporia State and its first women’s sports title as the Bearkats capture the first ever NAIA softball national championship.

May 17, 1982. In Sam Houston’s first season of competition at the NCAA Division II level, they defeated Northridge State 3-2 to win the NCAA Division II softball national championship at the NCAA World Series in Bridgeport, Conn.

April 24, 1987. Sam Houston completes its move up to the NCAA Division I level (NCAA Division I-AA in football) as the university moves with four other Gulf Star members (Nicholls, Northwestern State, Southwest Texas and Stephen F. Austin) into the Southland Conference.

March 2, 1973. The Bearkats defeat St. Mary’s (Texas) 61-54 to earn a berth in the NAIA National Basketball Championships in Kansas City, ending the regular season with a 27-0 record and a number one ranking in the Associated Press poll.

June 15, 1981. The affiliation of Sam Houston and the other Lone Star Conference members with the NCAA at the Division II level is accepted. The NCAA designates the 1982-83 season as Sam Houston’s first as an NCAA Division II team.

September 26, 1983. Sam Houston joins Nicholls, Northwestern State, Southeastern Louisiana, Southwest Texas and Stephen F. Austin to form the Gulf Star Conference. Competition in the new league begins during the 1984-85 school year.

September 13, 1986. Bearkat Stadium (renamed Bowers Stadium in 1990 to honor former SHSU president Elliott T. Bowers) opens with a 23-6 victory over Montana State. The 14,000-seat complex is considered one of the finest in NCAA Division I-AA football.

May 23, 1996. Sam Houston baseball, making its third NCAA Division I national playoff appearance, upsets No. 2 Miami (FL), 5-4, in Austin for the highest ranked NCAA Division I victory by any Bearkat team.

August 29, 2003. Women’s soccer takes the field as the 16th NCAA Division I sport for Sam Houston athletics in a home game against SMU.

March 13, 2010. Sam Houston defeats

Stephen F. Austin 64-48 on ESPN2 to win the Southland Conference men’s basketball tournament championship.

2010s

November 20, 1993. Sam Houston volleyball defeats Stephen F. Austin in four games to win the Southland Conference postseason tournament and advance to the NCAA Tournament, the Bearkats’ first appearance in an NCAA Division I women’s national championship event.

March 14, 2003. The Bearkats defeat Stephen F. Austin in overtime 69-66 to earn Sam Houston its first NCAA Division I basketball tournament berth.

December 16, 2011. Sam Houston football beats Montana in an NCAA Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) semifinal game, holding on for a 31-28 win to advance to the first national championship game in program history.

April 13, 2014. The women’s bowling program beats Nebraska to claim the first NCAA Division I national championship for Sam Houston Athletics.

June 5, 2017. Baseball wins a winner-take-all game seven in the Lubbock Regional over Texas Tech to clinch a spot in the NCAA Super Regionals. The Kats, who were one loss from elimination, won three games in less than 24 hours over the Red Raiders and Arizona to become the first Southland Conference team to advance to a Super Regional.

January 5, 2018. Jeremiah Briscoe repeats as the Walter Payton Award winner joining Appalachian State’s Armanti Edwards as the only repeat winner of the award.

March 10, 2018. Tyler Adams finishes third at the NCAA Track & Field Indoor Championships in College Station in the Heptathlon. By taking the bronze, he became the first SHSU athlete to medal at an NCAA Championship event.

May 10, 2019. Softball wins the Southland Conference tournament to claim both the regular season and postseason titles in the same season. The Kats went on to upset Texas 2-1 in the opening game of the NCAA Austin Regional.

April 17, 2019.

Women’s golf wins their first Southland title in 12 years and earn the program’s first trip to the NCAA Regionals.

January 14, 2021. Sam Houston officially accepts invitation to join the Western Athletic Conference, joining fellow SLC members Stephen F. Austin, Abilene Christian and Lamar in the move.

2020s

March 14, 2020. Southland Conference shuts down all athletic activities

April 11, 2021. Women’s tennis finishes 10-1 in Southland Conference play to win the first Division I conference championship in program history.

July 11, 2021. Colton Cowser is selected fifth overall by the Baltimore Orioles in the Major League Baseball Draft. It’s the highest selection of a Bearkat and Southland Conference player in the draft.

June 9, 2022. Clayton Fritsch takes silver at the NCAA Outdoor Championship in the pole vault. Fritsch capped a historic career as one of the most decorated track and field athletes in school history. He placed third at the 2022 NCAA Indoor Championships and he took the bronze at the 2019 NCAA Outdoor Championships.

May 16, 2021. With a touchdown in the closing seconds, Football wins the FCS National Championship over South Dakota State 23-21. It’s the first national championship for the program at the NCAA Division I level. It also capped a perfect 10-0 record in the unique spring football season.

May 30, 2021. Men’s Golf makes the cut at the NCAA Championships at Greyhawk Golf Club in Scottsdale, Ariz. Competing on the final day of stroke play, the Bearkats finished in a tie for ninth at the championship.

November 5, 2021. Sam Houston officially accepts invitation to join Conference USA and began the process of transitioning the football program to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) level.

Kicking

IT UP A Notch

Bearkat athletics is making significant efforts to enhance the overall experience for both student-athletes and fans. Recent renovations of locker rooms and club areas in Johnson Coliseum and Mafrige Field House help attract top talent by offering modern and comfortable facilities.

The addition of new terraces on each side of Bowers Stadium will offer sightlines closer to the action and enhance the gameday experience for fans. Planned upgrades to the west side of the stadium will include a state-of-theart press box and coaches area to provide better resources for coaches and media personnel. Additionally, new suites, club seating, concessions and restrooms will offer a new game day experience for fans.

Additional improvements include the new Chuck and Wanda Beckner Tennis Complex, installation of new turf and track surfaces at Bowers Stadium and new turf at the Bearkat Softball Stadium.

Investments in athletic facilities and infrastructure have a positive impact on the overall success of the athletics program. These improvements also help attract more attention and support from the community and boost morale among current and prospective athletes.H

PITCHING IN

for Bearkat Athletics

Houston entrepreneur, philanthropist and Bearkat, Don Sanders, left his mark on Sam Houston State University in 2007 with a generous $1 million endowment fund gift to enhance the university’s baseball program. Since then, Sanders’ love for baseball and giving back has allowed the program to grow and prosper in the stadium which bears his name.

The former owner of the Houston Astros Baseball Club and current co-owner of Ryan Sanders Baseball is a leading figure in a variety of civic, corporate and financial enterprises. Through his success, Sanders’ passions are apparent. His devotion to baseball, education and animals are reflected in the numerous schools and charities he continues to uplift.

“There’s a lot of people who have succeeded in life and been fortunate enough to have the funds to give. Without that, many universities or nonprofits wouldn’t have the facilities they have today,” Sanders said. “I think it’s been fun in my life to do these kinds of things. I admit, when you drive up and see a stadium with your name on it, it’s a nice feeling. Watching organizations thrive from what you give is even more wonderful.”

An avid Bearkat fan, Sanders is excited to see SHSU thrive as the university joins Conference USA.

“It’s an advantageous move that gives Sam Houston a step up in the competition for all sports. In baseball, I think we will get more experienced ballplayers,” Sanders said. “Moving to Conference USA is a great accomplishment for the school and a testament to the reputation we have here. Particularly in the years ahead, it will mean a lot and I look forward to watching the Bearkats and the school advance as a result.”H

The Sam Houston Bearkats have long been synonymous with excellence in athletics, carving out a remarkable reputation in collegiate sports. Behind the scenes, there is an intricate network of dedicated coaches who have played a pivotal role in shaping the Bearkat legacy. From leading teams to conference championships to nurturing exceptional talent, here is a glimpse into the careers of just a few of Sam Houston’s outstanding coaches.

The MVPs of the Sidelines

Go online to uncover an impressive roster with more talented Sam Houston coaches 

Coach K.C. Keeler (Football)

Hometown: Emmaus, PA

Alma mater: University of Delaware

Years coaching: 38 (10 at SHSU)

Professional sports experience: Last cut for Philadelphia Eagles (twice 1982 & 1983).

What is your coaching style? I believe in running the program like a family, with a focus on cultivating a culture, where we are all in this together.

Who are some of your coaching role models?

My father Ralph Keeler, who coached all sports; my high school coach Gene Legath; Tubby Raymond my college coach; and Richard Wackar, the former head coach at Glassboro State (now Rowan University).

How will joining Conference USA benefit Bearkat athletics? It will bring us national media exposure along with the opportunity to recruit and compete at a higher level. It is a great opportunity to capitalize on the growth of the university and continue to build upon it.

Coach Chris Mudge (Men’s Basketball)

Hometown: Round Rock, Texas

Alma mater: University of Texas

Years coaching: 15 (13 at SHSU)

What made you want to become a coach?

I loved basketball from a young age. When I went to college, I knew I had to find a way to stay involved in the game. I began volunteering with the team at UT, and God just continued to pull on my heart and open doors that led me to continue to follow this path. Through coaching, He has given me the opportunity to make a lasting impact on young men’s lives in incredible ways both on and off the court. The athletes I have been fortunate enough to coach have continued to remind me why I was called into coaching.

Why should prospective recruits choose SHSU?

So much of what makes Sam Houston great is the people. The athletic staff, along with university and community members here, separate us from other universities. Our students are deeply cared for and given every opportunity to succeed as student athletes and young adults through the relationships built here.

Coach Jay Sirianni (Baseball)

Hometown: Indianola, Iowa

Alma mater: University of Nebraska

Years coaching: 21 (9 at SHSU)

Professional sports experience: Played two years for the Cleveland Guardians.

What do you look for in a student-athlete?

Guys that love the game, want to get better, love competing in everything and take care of their business off the field.

Who are some of your coaching role models?

My dad; Rob Childress, former head coach at Texas A&M; Dave Van Horn, head coach at Arkansas; Darin Thomas, former head coach at UT-Arlington.

How will joining Conference USA benefit Bearkat athletics? It puts our entire department on a national stage, and it will help in recruiting.

Coach Ravon Justice (Women’s Basketball)

Hometown: Atlanta, Texas

Alma mater: University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma, Houston Baptist University

Years coaching: 18 (4 at SHSU)

What made you want to become a coach?

I wanted to be a judge but all that changed after I worked basketball camps during college. My high school coach, Donna Walker, inspired me to coach. I’ve always wanted to mentor young women and coaching is the ministry I choose.

Why should prospective recruits choose SHSU?

Sam Houston State is a small community that allow students to be more than a number. It’s a family environment that offers students opportunities to grow without being overwhelmed.

How will joining Conference USA benefit Bearkat athletics?

It’s a highly respectable conference with a national brand. We will be able to compete against schools with like-minded ideals of growing athletics.

Coach Sonia Curvelo (Soccer)

Hometown: Strathroy, Ontario Canada

Alma mater: Mississippi Valley State University, The University of Southern Mississippi

Years coaching: 14 (1 at SHSU)

Professional sports experience: Played in Spain and played for the Portugal National Team

Why did you become a coach? To inspire, empower and develop young women.

Why should prospective recruits choose SHSU? This is a special place that embraces diversity and provides a quality education for all students. The environment is very welcoming, and our customer service is top notch. The quality of professors and staff are high level, and we care about the students’ experience here at Sam Houston.H

EXPANDING THECOMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Amidst a transitional and unpredictable period in the history of college athletics, Conference USA (CUSA) readies to welcome a plethora of new members, including the Sam Houston Bearkats, while maintaining a strong tradition of excellence established over nearly three decades.

“Conference realignment used to be a once-in-a-career kind of thing, but it is here to stay,” said Judy MacLeod, who has served as CUSA’s commissioner since 2015. “Everybody is a little anxious about what it will look like and if it will ever settle, but I do believe some of the impact has been extremely positive. SHSU is a great example of that:

Along with SHSU, CUSA welcomes new members New Mexico State, Jacksonville State and Liberty in 2023 to join the University of Texas at El Paso, Florida International University, Louisiana Tech, Western Kentucky University and Middle Tennessee University. Kennesaw State will also join the conference in 2024.

“As we looked to rebuild and establish our new identity, we looked at schools that were already FCS, had some success and a lot of potential,” MacLeod said. “When you have a culture of winning, it’s a lot easier to move that culture up and continue it rather than bringing in members who are maybe already at that level but haven’t had that success.”

The new members will look to bring their own history and contributions to the conference’s long record of winning while building on their own success.

“We have hungry programs ready to prove themselves on the national stage,” MacLeod said. “Almost all of our schools are in smaller college towns and communities, many close to metro areas, so it’s a little bit of a different feel. Overall, this is a committed group and I think they’ve already shown that. We have a great opportunity to establish our identity through our new TV package and media deals. We’ll be ready for our July 1 launch. It will

… a school that has been building for this transition for a while and is now getting that opportunity.”

be a great day to welcome our new members officially.” The new-look conference’s multimedia rights deal was announced in November with longtime partners CBS Sports Network and ESPN, and will emphasize accessibility, opportune scheduling models, national linear and digital exposure and increased revenue.

“This is a major step forward for CUSA in terms of our multimedia rights as it relates to streamlined exposure, accessibility for our fans and greater financial resources for our members,” MacLeod said.

The multi-year agreement, which kicks off in 2023, positions CBS Sports with tier one selection status for CUSA football and men’s basketball over the length of the partnership while also televising the football championship, men’s basketball semifinal and championship games, the women’s basketball championship game and baseball and softball championship games.

CUSA membership approved a linear television-friendly scheduling format for football that sees all October league matchups played on midweek evenings. The broadcast partners will share the conference’s October weeknight football games on linear television across CBS Sports Network, ESPN, ESPN2 or ESPNU.

and consistent broadcast homes for our membership and fans as we continue to see the landscape of Conference USA and college athletics evolve.”

ESPN+ or ESPN3 will carry all additional regular season football games while also serving as the exclusive digital home for all of Conference USA’s Olympic sports (soccer, volleyball, baseball, softball, etc.), including all C-USA tournament games aside from the title games for baseball and softball, which will air on CBS Sports Network. Consolidating all digital inventory with ESPN provides a much more streamlined process for C-USA fans under one banner. Over 450 live sporting events will be available and streaming on ESPN’s digital platforms.H

“Building on our strong relationships with CBS and ESPN enabled us to provide increased exposure …

Kavian Gaither (Sophomore, Bearkat football athlete)

BEARKAT AdvoKats

“As soon as I got to campus, I loved it here. Watching the Bearkats on their championship run made me love it even more. Conference USA is going to be the next great step for us in putting Huntsville on the map and showing everyone in the world what we are about and what a great university this is.”

BEARKAT AdvoKats

“Everyone who goes to Sam Houston State knows it’s a great place to be and knows our school deserves more visibility. Conference USA will give us that credit or edge to be recognized in areas we haven’t been before. It will be good for us, and the Sam Houston State brand will continue to grow.”

NEWcompetitors

Sam Houston State University

Location: Huntsville, Texas

Mascot: Bearkats

Colors: Orange and White

Number of Sports: 17

Enrollment: 21,480

Number of Student-Athletes: 460

Athletic Director: Bobby Williams

President: Alisa White

NCAA Team Championships: 2020

Football (FCS); 2014 Women’s Bowling

Louisiana Tech University

Location: Rustin, La.

Mascot: Bulldogs

Colors: Blue and Red

Number of Sports: 16

Enrollment: 11,173

Number of Student-Athletes: 442

Athletic Director: Eric Wood President: Les Guice

NCAA Team Championships: 1982

Women’s Basketball; 1988 Women’s Basketball

Florida International University

Location: Miami, Fla.

Mascot: Panthers

Colors: Blue and Gold

Number of Sports: 18

Enrollment: 56,000

Number of Student-Athletes: 465

Athletic Director: Scott Carr

President: Kenneth A. Jessell

NCAA Team Championships: N/A

Jacksonville State University

Location: Jacksonville, Ala.

Mascot: Gamecocks

Colors: Red and White

Number of Sports: 17

Enrollment: 9,540

Number of Student-Athletes: 405

Athletic Director: Greg Seitz

President: Don C. Killingsworth, Jr.

NCAA Team Championships: 1984 & 1985 Women’s Gymnastics (DII); 1985 Men’s Basketball (DII); 1990 & 1991 Baseball (DII); 1992 Football (DII)

Liberty University

Location: Lynchburg, Va.

Mascot: Flames

Colors: Red and Blue

Number of Sports: 20

Enrollment: 47, 988

Number of Student-Athletes: 564

Athletic Director: Ian McCaw

President: Jerry Prevo

NCAA Team Championships: N/A

Middle Tennessee State University

Location: Murfreesboro, Tenn.

Mascot: Blue Raiders

Colors: Royal Blue and White

Number of Sports: 17

Enrollment: 22,080

Number of Student-Athletes: 400

Athletic Director: Chris Massaro

President: Sidney A. McPhee

NCAA Team Championships: Golf (1965); Men’s Tennis Doubles (2007)

New Mexico State University

Location: Las Cruces, N.M.

Mascot: Aggies

Colors: Crimson and White

Number of Sports: 16

Enrollment: 14,432

Number of Student-Athletes: 471

Interim Athletic Director: Jay Gogue

President: Dan E. Arvizu

NCAA Team Championships: N/A

University of Texas El Paso

Location: El Paso, Texas

Mascot: Miners

Colors: Blue and Orange

Number of Sports: 15

Enrollment: 24,003

Number of Student-Athletes: 325

Athletic Director: Jim Senter

President: Heather Wilson

NCAA Team Championships: 1966

Men’s Basketball; 1969, 1975, 1976, 1978, 1979, 1980 and 1981 Men’s Cross Country; 1974, 1975, 1976, 1978, 1980, 1981 and 1982 Men’s Indoor Track and Field; 1975, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981 and 1982 Men’s Outdoor Track and Field

Western Kentucky University

Location: Bowling Green, Ky.

Mascot: Hilltoppers

Colors: Red and White

Number of Sports: 16

Enrollment: 16,750

Number of Student-Athletes: 421

Athletic Director: Todd Stewart

President: Timothy Caboni

NCAA Team Championships: 2002 Football (FCS)

Kennesaw State University (Joining in 2024)

Location: Kennesaw, Ga.

Mascot: Owls

Colors: Black and Gold

Number of Sports: 16

Enrollment: 43,000

Number of Student-Athletes: 511

Athletic Director: Milton Overton

President: Kathy Schwaig

NCAA Team Championships: 1995 and 1996 Softball (DII); 1996 Baseball (DII); 2003 Women’s Soccer (DII); 2004 Men’s Basketball (DII)

BEARKAT AdvoKats

“Going to another conference will give us more publicity and more opportunity to be seen at a national level. This improves not only recruitment for all sports, but recruitment opportunities for students in general.” (Charlene)

“One of the things that I have realized is that each time the Bearkats have changed conferences, they’ve become bigger and better. That’s true with all sports and we’ve got season tickets to a lot of them.” (Paula)

BEARKAT AdvoKats

“I don’t think the community realizes all of the advantages that come with being part of a nationwide product like Conference USA. We’re going to start getting big name schools to compete here and more opportunities from corporate sponsors who want to be associated with our brand. We are really looking forward to it.”

BEARKAT AdvoKats

“This is a very exciting time for SHSU. Conference USA will clearly raise the profile of SHSU as a whole. A move to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) is meaningful in so many ways; more money for the program is great, but it will also affect our recruitment, national exposure, student body, as well as the local economy.”H

TThe academic success of student-athletes is critical to their future. Although athletic accomplishment is important, it is temporary and limited, whereas academic success opens a wide range of career opportunities and personal growth.

Student-athletes face unique challenges that require them to be disciplined, organized and goal-oriented to succeed in both academics and athletics. Balancing rigorous academic demands with the physical and mental demands of training and competition can be overwhelming, but it can also develop essential skills and character traits that are highly valued by employers and society.

for student atheletes and help them navigate academic and athletic obligations. Gerald Kohers, professor of information systems and Rhonda Callaway, professor of political science, currently serve as the faculty athletic representatives (FAR).

“When student athletes are successful in the classroom, they gain confidence, develop job skills, and broaden their perspectives in ways that can positively impact their overall well-being,” Kohers said.

As liaisons between academics and the 17 athletic sports at SHSU, FARs are one of several university safeguards for ensuring student-athletes’ success, both academically and athletically. They provide guidance with study habits, time management and other academic matters. They also work to build a relationship between the faculty and student-athletes.

Over the years, SHSU has had considerable success in many of their athletic programs. This, along with SHSU’s academic reputation, has led to an invitation to join Conference USA.

“The move to CUSA requires SHSU to improve many of their athletic facilities, such as expanding Bowers Stadium, building a new track facility, improving the locker rooms and building a new tennis facility. These modifications will improve the fan experience and assist with recruiting quality student-athletes,” Kohers said. “One requirement in the move to CUSA is an increase in football scholarships. This will also help in recruiting.”

Kohers believes the move to CUSA will offer the scheduling of more recognizable athletic programs, bigger TV deals and larger guaranteed money from revenue sharing.

“Competing at the national level against other top-notch athletic programs will increase the visibility of SHSU and lead to both the growth in enrollment and community engagement,” he said.H

To ensure student success, SHSU has designated faculty members to serve as advocates …

in Student Athlete Success Scoring Big

TAKING THE LEAD

ON AND OFF THE FIELD

Student athletes are leaders by nature, they carry the university’s name and pride on their backs as they compete against other universities in feats of great strength, skill and endurance. Through Sam Houston State University’s Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), students can serve as campus leaders as well by bridging the gap between athletes and administration.

The committee is made up of 34 athletes, representing all 17 teams within the university athletics program. From this group, five are chosen to head the group as members of the executive council. Under the council’s guidance, the committee helps develop the curriculum of the studentathlete affairs required course for incoming student athletes, report on student athlete welfare to the Faculty Staff Athletic Council, meet with SAACs at other universities to ensure procedural compliance and other initiatives that support student athletes.

Jaylen Phillips, a member of the executive council and linebacker for SHSU’s football team was honored to be chosen by Chris Thompson, the senior athletic director, to join the

committee and serve on its executive council. He is proud to serve as a bridge between the student athletes and campus leaders that make decisions impacting them.

“Being in a leadership role, I feel like people are counting on me to be able to express what’s going on from the athletes or fans and also students concerns because we want to build a culture of tradition here that remains after we leave,” Phillips

and get to know many people that athletes usually don’t get a chance to meet and let them know what’s going on. I think that’s important,” Phillips said.

As the university moves from the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) into Conference USA, Phillips said he and his peers will work even harder to ensure administrators are made aware of any growing pains the athletes may face.

said. “Building that connection with the students, athletes and the administration, brings everybody closer together.”

Through the program, Phillips has the opportunity to occasionally sit down and talk over lunch with members of campus leadership like the university president or the dean of students.

“We talk about things happening

While it may seem the move to Conference USA will mainly benefit athletics, Phillips believes the entire university will reap the advantages of the change.

“The move is promoting Sam Houston State as a university,” Phillips said. “I think this will allow us to build on traditions here and give people something to be very proud of.”H

“I feel like we have everybody on the same page about what our future goals are—to compete not only athletically in all sports but academically,” Phillips said.

TAILGATE UPDATE

To enhance the game day experience, changes have been made to the official Bearkat Alley tailgating location. Bearkat Alley will relocate to Lot 12, which is more commonly known as the Coliseum lot. This new location is situated on Bobby K. Marks Dr. and Bowers Boulevard, providing a convenient and spacious area for fans to come together and celebrate before each game.

Also, participants will not be required to break down before the game. Tailgate areas will be allowed to remain set up during the entire duration of the football game. Everything, however, must be cleaned up by 5 a.m. the following morning.

These changes will further enhance camaraderie and enthusiasm, as fans create memorable moments together. Whether reconnecting with old friends, enjoying delicious food or engaging in spirited conversations about the big game, the new tailgating set up promises to be an iconic hub of energy and support for the Sam Houston Bearkats as they march towards victory.H More details are available online. Be sure to review the updated tailgating policies.

Every Story Begins With You

Class Notes

Steve Cherry ‘71, received a Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Professional Achievement Award. He has been a Texas peace officer for 51 years, and criminal justice instructor at Denison High School for 24 years. He is a police officer at Grayson College PD.

Gary J. Schroeder ’74, was recognized for 40 years of public service, being the longest serving judge in the history of Gonzales County. He is the Presiding Judge of the City of Smiley and the City of Cuero. He also dedicated 25 years of service to the City of Shiner Municipal Court.

Annette Easley ’82 , received the Crystal Apple Award during the Texas A&M School of Education and Human Development 2023 Dean’s Roundtable, honoring transformational Leaders. She was sponsored by the Texas A&M’s Collaborative for Innovation in Teacher Education. Easley has taught in the Aldine ISD for 31 years.

Eric Loew ’87, ’89, is celebrating 32 years of teaching hydraulics, pneumatics, basic machines and AutoCAD, as he serves associate professor of industrial engineering at Stark State College in North Canton, Ohio.

Lloyd Nichols ’90, was elected to join Tyler City Council as a council member. He served as president of the East Texas Restaurant Association, and most recently sat on the Planning and Zoning Commission for the City of Tyler.

Because of generous donors, students such as Zoe can share their experiences with others and continue to make a difference at SHSU and in the world. Her story would not be possible without your support!

Zoe Powell Hardin, Texas Kinesiology Class of ’24

“My scholarship from Sam Houston State University will help me focus on my schooling rather than the financial burden.”

Jeffery Williams ’90, was elected to the Board of Directors of the American Association for Men in Nursing.

Troy A. Poston ’91, was promoted to senior vice president of sales for Subaru of America, Inc. He has been with the company for 26 years in numerous executive positions. In his new role, Poston is responsible for regional sales offices, field operations, vehicle planning and logistics, market development and sales operations.

Kevin Fritze ’96, ’00, has joined the faculty of Lone Star CollegeMontgomery as a professor of criminal justice. He previously taught at Angelina College in Lufkin. He is a Life Member of the SHSU Alumni Association.

Randall Repine ’15, serves as a Kroger store leader and took part in the coordination of Kroger’s generous gift to the Food Pantry at SHSU. Kroger’s threeyear commitment to the food pantry will total $30,000.

Trina Silva ’06, was named First Lady’s Book Club Chair of the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation’s Ladies for Literacy Guild Executive Committee. She is a Life Member of the SHSU Alumni Association.

Foundation’s Ladies for Literacy Guild Executive Committee

IN MEMORIAM†

A farewell to...

Doris (Reid) Cornelius ‘50

Esther Montoya ‘51, ‘54

Joy (Koym) Balderach ‘52

Joann Kelley Weygandt ‘52

Emma Lou (Cline) Gilmore ‘53

John Paul Griggs ‘53

Mary Charles (Fadell) Kyle ‘53, ‘54

Jesse Charles Floeck III ‘54

Ernest McNeil Moore, Jr. ‘54, ‘57

Alvis Houston Payne ‘54

Nancy May (Dalton) Penney ‘54

Joe Michael Walker ‘54

Bessie Belle (Daves) Armstrong ‘56

Wayne Barton Boedeker ‘57

Lloyd Turner Dickens ‘57, ‘63

Obie Glenn Harman ‘57

Terry Lee Harris ‘57

Colena (McKellar) McAfee ‘57

Billy Joe Terry ‘57

Roland Oscar Conrad ‘58, ‘64

Cecelia Carolyn (Conitz) Heinrich ‘58

Edward Murray Smither ‘58

Lisbeth Kay (Plunkett) Vann ‘58

Arthur Thomas Blackstock II ‘59

Sandra Joy (Reagan) Davis ‘59

Robert Lee Frazier ‘59, ‘72, ‘73

Rufus Hardy Bond, Jr. ‘60

Charles Felton Boyd ‘60

William Donald Francis ‘60

Richard A. Dudley ‘61

Eugene Henry Kamas ‘61

Janice Marie (Wilder) Steinmeyer ‘61, ‘65

Lee Read Beeson, Jr. ‘62

Peggy Louise (Watters) Boatright ‘63

Lois Ann (McGill) Boyd ‘63

Cornelia Bailey (Thompson) Cook ‘63

Shirley (Powell) Martin ‘63, ‘69

Robert Lynn Jarrard ‘64

Patricia Ann (Hajovsky) Kutach ‘64

Charles Clinton McLin ‘64, ‘69

Don Harvey Mitchell ‘64

James Weaver Orr ‘64

Julius James Dubcak ‘65

Annie Ruth (Carter) Jordan ‘65, ‘72

Roddie Ray (Wolverton) Stiles ‘65

Linda Jo (Fuller) Chauvin ‘66

John Douglas Hayman ‘66

Charles E. Roberts, Jr. ‘66

Martha Jane (Webster) Chaney ‘67

David Clayton Frame ‘67

William Charles Lee ‘67 ‘69

Peter Herman Quattrini, Jr. ‘68

Otis Lamont Ramage ‘68 ‘71

Hurlene H. Savage ‘68

Forrest Lann Copeland ‘69

John Charles Boyce ‘70

Robert Allen Brock ‘70, ‘72

Arthur Lewis Dodson, Jr. ‘70

Honor Kathleen Keith ‘70

James Dan Murrile ‘70, ‘74

James William Newport ‘71

Earl Ray Richter ‘71, ‘74

Ray Lynn Trosper ‘71

Nikki Roquemore Calhoun ‘72

Ralph Wayne Cannon ‘72, ‘74

Willard S. Sammon ‘72

Betty Sue (Kankel) Burr ‘73

Jerry Rex Clark ‘73

Beverly Frances (Walker) Loftis ‘73

Jimmy Lee Reavis ‘73

Sheila Anne (McAvoy) Baldwin ‘74

Helen Ora Bass ‘74

Edward Scott Daughters ‘74

William John Foster ‘74, ‘75

Benjamin Robert Lenamon ‘74

Raymond Pascal Richards ‘74

Janet Kay (Wade) Miller ‘75

Deborah Jane (Wilson) Broome ‘76

Paul D. Johnson ‘76

Thomas Roland McIntyre ‘76

Lindy Lou (Lacey) Rice ‘76

Ruth Helene (Coibion) Vie ‘76

Janet Benningnus (Ott) Fair ‘77 ‘83

Beulah Mae Huggins ‘77

Ty Ann (Richard) Noyes ‘78

Sherri Lynn (Cobler) Anderson ‘80, ‘87

Brian Kavanaugh De Coverley ‘80, ‘81

Margaret Rae (Campbell) Fitts ‘80

David Andrew Liggio ‘80

Robert P. Biggane ‘81

Cliff Buckner Blackerby ‘81

Timothy Freeman Edgerton ‘81

Marsha Josephine Harman ‘83

James Philip Kiser ‘83

David Dwayne Poe ‘83

Roddy Lee Kennedy ‘84

Paul Alan Seifert ‘84 ‘86

Theodore Roosevelt Williams ‘85

Ann Hawthorne (Wilson) Lloyd ‘88

Lucille Annette Dove ‘89, ‘94

Amy Suzanne (Rybiski) Tully ‘89

Joseph Lawrence Bernero ‘90, ‘91

Sandra June (Mouer) Howard ‘90

Raymond Lawrence Eppers ‘91

Linda Dorene Harvey ‘92

Suzanne (Strickland) Bond ‘93

Jana Lea Custer ‘94

Rebecca Sue (Hannath) Marshall ‘96

Christina Suhey Barrera ‘99

Rhonda Flores ‘99

Andrea Lynn (Valdes) Herrera ‘00

Joseph B. Carter III ‘04

Reisha L. Beaty-Ferrier ‘05

Ros Hackney Brown ‘07

Jessica Kathleen Taylor Richardson ‘17