SHSU Announces Jim P. Ferris Family Ring Plaza

SHSU Announces Jim P. Ferris Family Ring Plaza

Sam Houston State University is taking one of its most beloved traditions to the next level thanks to some help from generous Bearkat alumni. On March 26, the university unveiled The Jim P. Ferris Family Ring Plaza, which features a nine-foot-tall replica of an SHSU ring.

"This plaza expands access to a tradition that matters deeply to our students through this physical reminder as well as sponsorships that will provide more students with the opportunity to participate in the program and live out that moment of accomplishment alongside their peers," Matthew Bethea, vice president of University Advancement, said. "That is where philanthropy makes a long-lasting difference, by creating opportunities, opening doors and supporting students as they work towards graduation."

James “Jim” Paul Ferris ‘69 began a Bearkat legacy when he received his Bachelor of Arts in Teaching from SHSU, where he was head cheerleader, sophomore class favorite, all-college favorite, senior class president and a member of Sigma Chi fraternity. He was also a member of the last class to graduate from Sam Houston State College, as well as the first to graduate from Sam Houston State University, receiving two diplomas.

He has since worked as a high school teacher in League City, TX, and made his way from part-time truck washer and loader for Wismer Distributing in Baytown, TX, to a growth-driven general manager. His leadership grew the company from moving 120,000 cases a year to over five million, and from eight employees to over 200.

Ferris has always been known for his vigorous spirit and optimistic outlook, and for his outstanding contributions to his community through his giving nature and excellent business acumen. He is a 2011 SHSU Distinguished Alumnus. As seen through his contribution to the ring plaza’s creation and through his 2024 Wall of Honor recognition from the SHSU Department of Engineering and his status as a Life Endowed Member of the SHSU Alumni Association, Ferris has remained a committed Bearkat through and through.

This rings true for his wife, Tonya and the Ferris children as well. Their daughter Danielle Ferris was also a Sam Houston cheerleader, who participated in four National Championships and graduated Cum Laude in 2018.  Their son James Paul Ferris, II, is also a member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity and graduated from Sam Houston in 2021. 

“Every door that I have ever knocked on since I was in high school, Sam Houston has opened up that door for me,” Ferris said. "Sam Houston took me from Austin to Huntsville, gave me a diploma and a teaching certificate, then sent me back to Austin. There, I connected with a fellow Bearkat, and went from Austin to League City to, eventually, to Baytown, where I would spend the rest of my life. Thank you, Sam Houston. It's been a wonderful ride and you were the vehicle and I know that I could never repay you for what you've done for me."

The replica ring at the center of the plaza stands as one of the largest of its kind on a college campus. This statement piece reflects the Ferris family’s steadfast commitment to SHSU and serves as a symbol of the partnership between SHSU and Joesten’s.

The gigantic ring reflects the pride that all SHSU students feel towards their alma mater. Just as its wearable counterparts, the monument features Austin Hall etched onto one side and a portrait of Sam Houston with the date '03 on the other end of the band to represent the year the ring program was founded. On top is the classic “S” and “H” encircled by “Sam Houston State University.”

As a special touch unique to SHSU, the ring has an additional etching on the inside of the band. The word “Honor” is carved into the installation, just as Houston’s original ring was inscribed. As she saw him off before entering the war, Houston’s mother presented him with a ring inscribed with the word “Honor.” In presenting the ring, she shared a message of her expectation for Houston to conduct himself honorably, even on the battlefield.

“The Ring Plaza creates a meaningful space for students to gather,” University President Alisa White said. “It is where students will come together to celebrate their academic milestones at Sam, capture memories at commencement and where alumni can return to reconnect in a place that reflects the pride of their experience.”

Even those who have already left SHSU to start their careers without receiving their ring are still able to be a part of this tradition. Graduates who purchase an official Sam Houston ring can participate in the ring ceremony alongside the next generation of Bearkats. Their rings will sit side by side in Houston’s woodland home on the grounds of the Sam Houston Memorial Museum and Republic of Texas Presidential Library.

Those who are interested in purchasing their SHSU ring can follow this link to see the collection Joesten’s curated specifically for the university.