Sam Houston State University Executive and Leadership Team

Emmy Erisa, the Chief Executive Officer at Sam Houston State University, directs the overarching strategic vision and institutional growth initiatives. Erisa manages high-level academic partnerships and ensures the university maintains a competitive edge in the higher education landscape. By aligning departmental goals with the broader mission of providing practical, career-focused education, the Chief Executive Officer fosters an environment conducive to research and student development. Erisa oversees the integration of modern facilities with academic programming to enhance the overall learning experience. Through consistent engagement with faculty and administrative leaders, the Chief Executive Officer drives operational efficiency across the campus. Emmy Erisa maintains a focus on long-term sustainability and institutional reputation, ensuring that the university remains a premier destination for students seeking personal and professional growth. This leadership role requires constant adaptation to evolving educational standards and market demands, which Erisa navigates with precision and foresight.

Randall Garner, the Chief Executive Officer & Director, Criminal Justice Center Shsu at Sam Houston State University, architects the strategic direction for the specialized criminal justice research and academic programs. Garner manages the operational output of the center, ensuring that research initiatives directly inform the broader educational mission of the university. By bridging the gap between theoretical study and practical application, the Chief Executive Officer & Director, Criminal Justice Center Shsu enhances the reputation of the institution within the legal and public safety sectors. Garner coordinates with faculty to expand research capabilities and secure funding for critical projects. This leadership role involves maintaining high standards of academic rigor while fostering community involvement and professional connections for students. Randall Garner drives the development of specialized curricula that meet the needs of modern law enforcement and justice agencies. Through these efforts, the center remains a cornerstone of the university's commitment to impactful, career-focused education.

Amanda Withers, the Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Operations at Sam Houston State University, manages the fiscal health and administrative infrastructure of the institution. Withers oversees the allocation of resources to support diverse academic programs and campus-wide facility improvements. By optimizing budgetary processes, the Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Operations ensures that the university maintains the financial stability necessary for long-term growth. Withers coordinates with other executive leaders to align operational expenditures with the strategic goals of the university. This role involves monitoring revenue streams and managing capital investments to enhance the student experience. Amanda Withers drives efficiency in administrative services, allowing faculty and staff to focus on teaching and research. Through rigorous financial oversight and operational planning, the Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Operations supports the university's mission of providing a welcoming and supportive learning environment for all students across the institution.

Hernandez Carlos, the Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Operations at Sam Houston State University, directs the logistical and supply chain frameworks that support campus operations. Carlos manages the procurement and maintenance of modern facilities, ensuring that the physical environment meets the needs of a growing student body. By streamlining administrative workflows, the Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Operations improves the overall service delivery for students and faculty. Carlos coordinates with internal departments to implement cost-saving measures that do not compromise the quality of education. This leadership role involves overseeing large-scale infrastructure projects and managing vendor relationships to ensure the university receives maximum value. Hernandez Carlos drives the implementation of sustainable practices across campus operations, aligning the university's physical footprint with its commitment to personal and professional growth. Through these efforts, the Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Operations secures the operational foundation required for academic excellence.

DALLAS-James Bexley, the President's Executive Leadership Council at Sam Houston State University, provides high-level advisory support for institutional governance and strategic planning. Bexley participates in the formulation of policies that guide the university's academic and administrative direction. By analyzing market trends and educational needs, the President's Executive Leadership Council ensures that the university remains responsive to the evolving demands of the higher education sector. Bexley collaborates with other senior leaders to evaluate the effectiveness of current programs and identify opportunities for expansion. This leadership role involves representing the university in broader academic forums and fostering partnerships that enhance the institution's reputation. DALLAS-James Bexley drives the development of initiatives that promote student success and faculty engagement. Through consistent participation in executive decision-making, the President's Executive Leadership Council supports the university's commitment to providing a welcoming learning environment and fostering personal growth for every student.

Dana Gibson, the President at Sam Houston State University, serves as the primary architect of the university's long-term strategic vision and institutional mission. Gibson oversees the entire academic and administrative structure, ensuring that all departments work in harmony to provide a high-quality, career-focused education. By engaging with stakeholders, alumni, and the broader community, the President strengthens the university's position as a leader in higher education. Gibson manages the executive team to drive innovation in teaching, research, and student support services. This leadership role involves setting the tone for campus culture and ensuring that the university remains a welcoming environment for diverse learners. Dana Gibson drives the implementation of policies that foster personal growth and professional readiness among the student body. Through these efforts, the President ensures that the university continues to build meaningful connections and prepare graduates for successful careers in a competitive global market.

McCartney Johnson, the Deputy To the President at Sam Houston State University, manages the execution of presidential initiatives and facilitates communication across the executive leadership team. Johnson coordinates special projects that address critical institutional needs, ensuring that the university's strategic goals remain on track. By acting as a liaison between the President and various academic departments, the Deputy To the President ensures alignment and operational efficiency. Johnson monitors the progress of key university programs and provides data-driven insights to support decision-making. This leadership role involves managing high-level administrative tasks and representing the President in various internal and external meetings. McCartney Johnson drives the development of collaborative efforts that enhance the university's academic and community impact. Through these efforts, the Deputy To the President supports the institution's mission of providing a supportive learning environment and fostering personal growth for students and faculty alike.

Bernard Johnson, the President at Sam Houston State University, directs the overall academic and operational strategy of the institution. Johnson oversees the development of new academic programs and the expansion of research initiatives to meet the needs of a diverse student population. By fostering a culture of excellence and inclusivity, the President ensures that the university remains a welcoming environment for all learners. Johnson coordinates with the Board and executive leadership to secure the resources necessary for modernizing campus facilities and enhancing student services. This leadership role involves representing the university in regional and national educational forums to promote its mission and achievements. Bernard Johnson drives the strategic initiatives that prepare students for future careers through practical, hands-on education. Through these efforts, the President ensures that the university continues to build meaningful connections and provide the support necessary for personal and professional growth.

Alisa White, the President at Sam Houston State University, leads the institution in its mission to provide a transformative and career-focused educational experience. White oversees the strategic planning process, ensuring that the university adapts to the changing landscape of higher education while maintaining its core values. By promoting research, community involvement, and student engagement, the President fosters an environment where students can build confidence and professional skills. White collaborates with faculty and administrative leaders to enhance the quality of academic programs and student support services. This leadership role involves managing the university's external relations and advocating for the institution's role in regional development. Alisa White drives the initiatives that ensure the university remains a welcoming and supportive place for diverse learners. Through these efforts, the President secures the university's reputation as a premier destination for personal growth and meaningful professional preparation.

Michael Reed, the Chief of Staff - Football at Sam Houston State University, manages the administrative and operational functions of the athletic department. Reed coordinates the daily activities of the football program, ensuring that all team operations align with university policies and academic standards. By facilitating communication between coaching staff, student-athletes, and university administration, the Chief of Staff - Football fosters a culture of discipline and success. Reed oversees the logistics of team travel, recruitment support, and facility usage, ensuring that the program operates efficiently. This leadership role involves managing departmental budgets and supporting the personal development of student-athletes through community involvement and academic support. Michael Reed drives the strategic planning for the football program, contributing to the overall campus life and spirit. Through these efforts, the Chief of Staff - Football ensures that the athletic department remains a vital component of the university's mission to build confidence and meaningful connections.