Everything Nac

Stephen F. Austin State University has appointed Dr. Jason Reese as the acting dean of the Nelson Rusche College of Business, effective Monday, March 10. This appointment follows the departure of Dr. Tim Bisping, who has accepted the position of dean of the College of Business at the University of Central Arkansas.

Reese currently serves as an associate professor of marketing at SFA and director of the college’s Master of Business Administration program. He brings extensive experience in academic leadership and a strong commitment to student success. His roles at SFA have included serving as the Rusche College of Business’ associate dean from 2022-24, chairing the Faculty Senate, serving as faculty athletics representative, and advising various student organizations.

Reese was instrumental in the development of the college’s Bachelor of Business Administration in sports business program in 2015 as well as the creation of the Sports Business Society student organization in 2017.

“Dr. Reese’s dedication to academic excellence and his extensive experience within the Rusche College of Business make him well-suited to lead the college during this transitional period,” said Dr. Judy Abbott, interim provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “His commitment to fostering a supportive environment for both faculty and students aligns with our university’s mission.”

Reese holds a doctoral degree in sport management from Texas A&M University and has received several awards during his time in higher education, including the SFASU Foundation Teaching Award and the Distinguished Faculty Member Award.

SFA extends its gratitude to Bisping for his leadership and contributions to the Rusche College of Business serving as dean and professor since 2015. During his tenure, Bisping led initiatives to enhance academic excellence, foster faculty and staff development, and support student achievement. The university congratulates him on his new role at UCA and wishes him continued success.

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

Stephen F. Austin State University’s School of Music has launched the Elliott String Quartet Fellowship, a new graduate-level opportunity designed to attract top-tier string musicians and enhance the university’s orchestral program. The fellowship will begin in fall 2025 and provide competitive financial support to selected graduate students pursuing a Master of Music in performance or a performing artist certificate.

“For a school of music to be the best it can be, it must have a strong string orchestra program,” said Dr. Gary Wurtz, dean of the Micky Elliott College of Fine Arts. “This fellowship allows us to bring in high-level musicians who will serve as leaders within the program, elevating performance quality and increasing our recruiting reach.”

Made possible by a generous donation from the Elliott Family Foundation and Bill Elliott, husband to the late Micky Elliott for whom the college was named, the quartet will be composed of two violinists, a violist and a cellist, with each member serving as a principal player in the SFA Symphony Orchestra. Beyond their role in the orchestra, the quartet will maintain an active performance schedule, including on-campus recitals, state and national engagements and potential international appearances.

School of Music faculty members are currently recruiting the quartet’s inaugural members, who will not only benefit from a highly competitive financial award but also graduate with a prestigious performance credential that will strengthen their career opportunities.

As part of their residency, quartet members will facilitate weekly orchestra sectionals and serve as a lab ensemble for graduate conducting students. This immersive experience is designed to prepare them for professional careers in chamber music while simultaneously strengthening SFA’s music program.

According to Wurtz, membership in the quartet will change every two years as members graduate. Rotating performers will expand the school’s recruiting reach while giving talent from around the world the chance to compete for membership and add a significant credential to their résumé.

“The existence of this group and its affiliation with SFA will further enhance public awareness of the great things happening here,” Wurtz said. “This is a major step forward in the evolution of our program.”

For more information on the Elliott String Quartet Fellowship or the School of Music’s graduate program, visit sfasu.edu/music.

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

Stephen F. Austin State University is proud to announce the launch of SFA Delegates, a dynamic student ambassador program designed to provide exceptional students with the opportunity to represent SFA at special events and official gatherings, acting as the face of the university under the direction of the Office of the President.

“The SFA Delegates are all great examples of the student body of SFA,” said SFA first lady Kristi Weaver, who spearheaded the group’s creation based on similar programs she and SFA President Neal Weaver have cultivated at past institutions. “They help us represent the university in positive ways to the constituents who help the university. Dr. Weaver and I enjoy the opportunity to work with these students as they develop their skills and help them attain valuable experiences while representing SFA.”

The SFA Delegates program aims to foster a group of student leaders who embody the values of the institution at ceremonies such as graduation, holiday celebrations, and other prestigious university and community functions. Through meaningful interactions with the campus community and special guests, SFA Delegates will develop essential communication and leadership skills that complement those they’re developing in the classroom, all while enhancing their personal and professional growth. Thirteen students were selected to serve in the university’s first cohort, which began in fall 2024.

“Having students represent the university at ceremonies and events creates a meaningful and lasting impact by providing an authentic perspective on the life of a modern-day Lumberjack,” said Lacey Folsom, director of Student Engagement and the SFA Delegates advisor. “Their presence allows university supporters, stakeholders and guests to see firsthand how SFA is shaping the experiences and futures of its students. Their involvement strengthens the connection between SFA and its broader community.”

SFA Delegates maintain a close connection with the university’s Office of the President, allowing them to spend more time with the first family and connect with influential alumni and campus partners which will provide them with invaluable mentorship, advice and networking opportunities as they work toward achieving their personal and professional goals.

“The students who serve in these roles are already exceptional leaders, making a meaningful impact across campus — whether in the classroom, as leaders of student organizations, as student employees or as SFA student-athletes,” Folsom said. “However, membership in this organization will also provide opportunities for further leadership development, focusing on essential skills, such as effective communication, professional etiquette, problem-solving, adaptability, teamwork and the ability to engage with diverse audiences.”

In order to be selected as an SFA Delegates member, students must maintain a 2.5 GPA or higher, be in good standing for academics and conduct, and attend a variety of events, such as retreat/training workshop, monthly meetings and at least one commencement ceremony each semester.

“When expanding the SFA Delegates cohort, our focus is on selecting juniors and seniors who have actively engaged in various aspects of campus leadership and can authentically share their experiences at SFA,” Folsom said. “These students will serve as ambassadors, offering valuable insight into university life and leadership. The selection process includes a thorough application and interview, carefully evaluated by program advisors and current SFA Delegate leaders to ensure candidates align with the program’s mission and values.”

For more information about SFA Delegates, visit gosfa.com/SFAdelegates or contact Shelby DeWitt, coordinator of Student Engagement, at shelby.winthrop@sfasu.edu.

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