Today@Sam Article

SHSU Announces Fall Commencement Speakers

Nov. 18, 2022
SHSU Media Contact: Emily Binetti

Sam Houston State University will welcome three notable speakers for the Fall 2022 Commencement ceremonies scheduled for Dec. 9 & 10 in the Bernard G. Johnson Coliseum in Huntsville, Texas. Troy Finner, Shelley Dacus and Morgan Chesky will address approximately 2,010 graduating students who have applied for degrees to be awarded.

On Dec. 9, Troy Finner will address students from the College of Criminal Justice and the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (only psychology and philosophy).

A 1998 graduate of SHSU, Finner is the Chief of Police for the Houston Police Department, serving the nation’s fourth largest city since 2021. His career has spanned more than three decades, beginning in 1990 as a patrol officer. As he moved up the ranks, he began performing duties that included outreach with at-risk youths in high-crime areas, serving as a liaison to the mayor’s office and working with internal affairs command. Finner was named a 2022 SHSU Distinguished Alumni and is a Life Member of the SHSU Alumni Association.

Also on Dec. 9, Shelley Dacus will address students from the College of Business Administration and the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (except psychology and philosophy).

A 2002 graduate of SHSU, Dacus serves as regional president and CEO at First Financial Bank NA. She has more than 15 years of banking experience and was part of the leadership team of Commercial State Bank acquired by First Financial Bank.

On Dec. 10, Morgan Chesky will address students from the College of Education, the College of Sciences and Engineering Technology, the College of Arts and Media and the College of Health Sciences.

A 2008 graduate of SHSU, Chesky is a correspondent for NBC News whose reports can be seen on NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt, The Today Show, and all NBC platforms. While based in Dallas, assignments have taken the fifth generation Texan all over the world. Most recently, Chesky spent a month in Ukraine where he reported on the deepening war with Russia. Prior to joining NBC News, he anchored and reported in Seattle, Oklahoma City, Austin and Tyler, Texas.

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