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English News and Spotlights

2026 News and Spotlights

Alexis poses with colleagues at the TAFE annual meeting/

Student Takes Third in Competition

Sam Houston State University’s College of Education has achieved two major milestones thanks to Alexis Argueta. The English and education double major was the first student to represent the university at the state level during the Texas Association of Future Educators’ (TAFE) annual meeting, followed by her taking third place in the national children’s literature competition at the 41st Annual Teach Tomorrow event.

“When I was at the event, they couldn’t recall anyone from Sam Houston doing so before,” Argueta said. “Hearing really drove home what an honor it was to compete at this level and pave the way for future Bearkats.”...

SHSU faculty member stands waving to the students in his robes and hat.

Photos: Spring 2026 Commencement

Check out photos of our amazing graduates!

SHSU student smiles at the camera while holding their SHSU ring.

Photos: Ring Ceremony Spring 2026

The SHSU Ring Ceremony is a proud Bearkat tradition, celebrating the hard work and dedication of students as they receive their official class rings.

Sammy Bearkat is pointing at the camera with text over the photo that says 'thank you Bearkats'.

Giving Day 2026 Shatters Records

Sam Houston State University held its third annual Giving Day from April 21-22. This year, new and returning supporters blasted past previous-year totals, reaching over $564,000 from 870 gifts. Marking another year of outstanding support for the university.

SHSU Orange Key Ambassador adds an orange rose to the Raven's call statue.

Photos: Raven's Call 2026

Raven's Call at Sam Houston State University honors and celebrates students, faculty, staff and alumni who have passed away, fostering remembrance and community unity.

Sammy Emcees pose with the Provost.

Photos: 32nd Annual Sammys Awards

Sam Houston State University's prestigious annual awards night, The Sammys, brought together some of the best and brightest Bearkat students, faculty and staff for a night of celebration.

Awards are given to individuals, colleges and organizations; each honoree was nominated for their outstanding service to the university community. The breakdown of awards and the criteria for recipients is as follows...

SHSU students pose with a sign that says 'first day of spring semester 2026'.

Photos: First Day of Class Spring

View photos of campus in the spring.

SHSU graduate poses their family and friends in their graduation robe.

Fall 2025 Commencement Photos

Sam Houston State University hosted its commencement ceremonies on Dec. 12-13.

SHSU students speak while sitting on couches in the library.

America’s Top Online Colleges

SHSU Climbs to No. 58 in Newsweek’s 2025 America’s Top Online Colleges Rankings

Sam Houston State University (SHSU) has once again been recognized as a leader in online education, earning the No. 58 spot in Newsweek’s America’s Top Online Colleges 2025 rankings—a significant jump from No. 102 in 2024...

The SHSU bell tower on a cloudy day with students walking around it.

Top Colleges in Nation, State

Sam Houston State Ranks Among Top Colleges in Nation, State

Sam Houston State University has been ranked No. 231 in the nation and ninth in Texas in the 2026 Best U.S. Colleges rankings by The Wall Street Journal and College Pulse.

SHSU placed ahead of all other Texas State University System institutions in the annual ranking, which evaluates colleges based on student outcomes and learning environment...

Arnesha poses in her graduation robes and hat by a pond.

Spotlight: Arnesha Young

For Arnesha Young, Sam Houston State University means more than just a degree. TheArnesha Young in her regalia choice to become a Bearkat led to a foundational community rooted in purpose and a lifelong commitment to excellence.

“Sam has given me many opportunities that I never expected,” Young said. “If you have high aspirations and are willing to put in the work, this is a great place to start your journey.”...

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