Stephen F. Austin State University has appointed Michael Funke chief of The University of Texas System Police Department at SFA, effective Feb. 1, following his service as interim chief. The appointment was made in collaboration with The University of Texas System Office of the Director of Police.
“Campus safety is critical to the success and well-being of our university community,” said Dr. Neal Weaver, SFA president. “Chief Funke’s leadership, extensive experience within the UT System and commitment to collaboration make him the right leader for SFA.”
Funke, who earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and criminology from The University of Texas at Arlington, is a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and brings more than 20 years of law enforcement experience to the role. He joined UT System’s ODOP in 2011 at UT Health San Antonio, where he held leadership and instructional roles in training areas including baton, taser and defensive tactics. Promoted to sergeant in 2021, Funke later joined ODOP as an inspector II, supporting public safety operations across the UT System.
“We have truly fallen in love with this campus and the surrounding community,” Funke said. “We are grateful for the support of the UT System and honored to be part of the SFA family. I look forward to continuing to work alongside campus partners to ensure a safe, welcoming environment for everyone.”
For more information about the UTS-SFA police department, visit sfasu.edu/police.
ABOUT STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE UNIVERSITY
Stephen F. Austin State University, the newest member of The University of Texas System, began a century ago as a teachers’ college in Texas’ oldest town, Nacogdoches. Today, it has grown into a regional institution comprising six colleges — business, education, fine arts, forestry and agriculture, liberal and applied arts, and sciences and mathematics. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, SFA enrolls approximately 11,000 students while providing the academic breadth of a state university with the personalized attention of a private school. The main campus encompasses 421 acres that include 40 academic facilities, 11 residence halls, and 68 acres of recreational trails that wind through its six gardens. The university offers more than 80 bachelor’s degrees, more than 40 master’s degrees and four doctoral degrees covering over 120 areas of study. Learn more at sfasu.edu.
By University Marketing Communications
