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 the alignment of academic programs with evolving market demands to ensure students receive practical, career-focused education. By overseeing cross-departmental collaboration, the Chief Executive Officer maintains high standards across all campus facilities and research centers. Erisa drives the expansion of community partnerships, strengthening the university's regional presence across Texas. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of institutional performance metrics to optimize student outcomes and faculty support systems. Through rigorous oversight of administrative functions, Emmy Erisa secures the long-term sustainability of the university. The Chief Executive Officer prioritizes innovation in learning environments, ensuring that modern facilities meet the needs of a diverse student body. Ultimately, Erisa fosters a culture of excellence that prepares graduates for competitive professional landscapes.

Amanda Withers, the Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Operations at Sam Houston State University, manages the fiscal health and operational infrastructure of the institution. Withers directs the allocation of resources to support diverse academic programs and modern campus facilities. By overseeing budgetary planning, the Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Operations ensures that financial assets align with the university's mission of providing practical, career-focused education. Amanda Withers monitors operational efficiency across all departments, implementing cost-effective strategies that enhance the student experience. This role involves coordinating with institutional leadership to secure funding for research initiatives and community involvement projects. Through careful management of capital expenditures, Withers maintains the physical and digital infrastructure necessary for academic growth. The Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Operations drives fiscal transparency, supporting the university's commitment to student success and long-term institutional stability within the competitive higher education sector.

Hernandez Carlos, the Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Operations at Sam Houston State University, architects the procurement and supply chain logistics for the university's expansive campus operations. Carlos directs the maintenance of modern facilities, ensuring that physical infrastructure supports the diverse academic programs offered. By overseeing vendor relationships and service contracts, the Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Operations optimizes operational spending to maximize value for students and faculty. Hernandez Carlos manages the integration of new technology into campus systems, enhancing the overall learning environment. This role involves collaborating with other executive leaders to streamline administrative processes and improve institutional responsiveness. Through rigorous oversight of operational workflows, Carlos ensures that the university remains a welcoming and efficient space for personal growth. The Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Operations drives initiatives that align physical campus resources with the university's long-term strategic goals for academic and professional excellence.

Elliott Bowers, the President at Sam Houston State University, directs the institutional mission and sets the strategic agenda for academic and community engagement. Bowers oversees the faculty and administrative leadership to ensure the delivery of high-quality, career-focused education. By championing research and personal growth initiatives, the President fosters a welcoming environment that prepares students for future careers. Elliott Bowers represents the university in regional and national forums, driving the institution's reputation for excellence. This leadership role involves balancing the needs of diverse academic departments with the overarching goal of student success. Through consistent engagement with the campus community, the President ensures that modern facilities and supportive services remain accessible to all. Bowers drives the development of new academic programs that respond to changing industry requirements. Ultimately, the President secures the university's position as a leader in providing practical education and meaningful connections for students.

DALLAS-James Bexley, the President's Executive Leadership Council at Sam Houston State University, directs the collaborative policy-making process that guides institutional governance. Bexley manages the synthesis of diverse departmental perspectives to ensure that university initiatives align with the core mission of student-focused education. By overseeing the implementation of strategic directives, the President's Executive Leadership Council maintains operational consistency across all academic and administrative units. DALLAS-James Bexley facilitates high-level discussions that address campus challenges and opportunities for growth. This leadership role involves evaluating the impact of new policies on student life, research capabilities, and faculty support. Through active participation in council deliberations, Bexley drives the development of long-term plans that enhance the university's market position. The President's Executive Leadership Council ensures that all institutional decisions prioritize the practical career preparation and personal development of the student body, fostering a cohesive and forward-thinking academic community.

McCartney Johnson, the Deputy To the President at Sam Houston State University, directs the execution of special projects and high-priority initiatives mandated by the office of the President. Johnson manages the flow of information between executive leadership and various campus departments to ensure strategic alignment. By overseeing cross-functional teams, the Deputy To the President facilitates the implementation of programs that enhance student engagement and academic support. McCartney Johnson coordinates complex administrative tasks, allowing the President to focus on long-term institutional vision and external relations. This leadership role involves monitoring the progress of key university goals and identifying areas for operational improvement. Through diligent oversight, Johnson ensures that all initiatives contribute to the university's mission of providing a welcoming and practical learning environment. The Deputy To the President drives efficiency in institutional processes, supporting the overall growth and success of the university community.

Bernard Johnson, the President at Sam Houston State University, directs the expansion of academic research and community outreach programs. Johnson manages the university's relationships with external stakeholders to secure resources that support student growth and modern facility upgrades. By overseeing the faculty recruitment and development process, the President ensures that the institution maintains a high standard of teaching and mentorship. Bernard Johnson drives the implementation of innovative curricula designed to meet the demands of modern professional careers. This leadership role involves fostering a campus culture that values diversity, research, and practical application of knowledge. Through strategic planning, the President aligns the university's resources with the evolving needs of the student body. Johnson ensures that all academic programs provide meaningful connections and career-focused education. Ultimately, the President leads the institution toward greater regional impact and sustained academic excellence.

Dana Gibson, the President at Sam Houston State University, directs the long-term strategic planning and institutional advancement efforts. Gibson manages the university's commitment to providing a welcoming learning environment through the continuous improvement of campus facilities and student services. By overseeing the integration of research and practical education, the President ensures that students gain the skills necessary for professional success. Dana Gibson drives the development of partnerships that connect the university with broader community and industry networks. This leadership role involves guiding the faculty and staff toward achieving institutional goals related to student retention and academic achievement. Through careful stewardship of university resources, Gibson supports the growth of diverse academic programs. The President ensures that the institution remains a hub for personal growth and meaningful connections. Ultimately, Dana Gibson leads the university in maintaining its reputation for delivering high-quality, career-focused education.

Alisa White, the President at Sam Houston State University, directs the overall academic and administrative strategy to ensure the university remains a leader in practical, career-focused education. White manages the implementation of initiatives that enhance student life and support faculty research. By overseeing the alignment of academic programs with industry trends, the President ensures that graduates possess the skills required for competitive careers. Alisa White drives the expansion of modern campus facilities, creating a welcoming environment for a diverse student population. This leadership role involves collaborating with the board and executive team to secure the university's financial and academic future. Through active engagement with the community, the President promotes the university's mission of personal growth and meaningful connections. White ensures that all institutional policies support the success of the student body. Ultimately, the President leads the university toward continued excellence and regional prominence.

Michael Reed, the Chief of Staff - Football at Sam Houston State University, directs the administrative and operational functions of the athletic program. Reed manages the daily logistics, scheduling, and resource coordination required to maintain a competitive collegiate environment. By overseeing staff workflows, the Chief of Staff - Football ensures that athletic operations support the broader mission of student-athlete development and academic success. Michael Reed facilitates communication between the coaching staff and university administration, aligning athletic goals with institutional standards. This leadership role involves optimizing the use of campus facilities for training and community engagement events. Through strategic planning, Reed enhances the visibility of the football program, contributing to the overall campus life and spirit. The Chief of Staff - Football drives efficiency in team operations, ensuring that all logistical requirements meet the high expectations of the university community while fostering personal growth for every student-athlete involved.