Heritage

The Magazine of Sam Houston State University, Summer 2021

Champions of First-Gen

Dr. White in the president's office on her first day as president.

A Message from the President

My love of education and learning is very personal for me as it began with my first teacher—my father.

Robert White was born into poverty 86 years ago to parents whose education stopped short of high school. While growing up in tough circumstances, Daddy was still lucky—he had both a gift of intelligence and thirst for...

Her Story

A person wearing surgical scrubs and a mask sits against a wall in a dark, clean room.

Building Bridges

Houston Police Chief, Troy Finner caught-up with his alma mater to reflect on where he has been, how he got there and what the future holds.

About Troy Finner

Student on campus wearing a mask

We are First-Gen

Students and new alumni share why they chose to go to college, the challenges they have faced, and the resources that helped them reach their goals.

Hear from Students

Jamila Raja holding an umbrella

A Plan for Texas' Future

Texas launched a plan with a clear and bold vision to be among the highest-achieving states in the country.

The Plan

Football helmet with new SHSU Athletic logo

Charting a Path Forward

In July, Michael T. Stephenson was welcomed as provost and senior vice president for academic affairs.

Meet Our New Provost

a police officer and a smiling women face each other

Championing Alumni Spirit

Meet Jessica Rodriguez-Wahlquist, a member of the SHSU Alumni Association Board of Directors.

About Jessica

Dean Chien-Pin Li in front of CHSS building

Setting the Stage for Success

Recognizing how some students need customized support, the university has a number of initiatives in place to enhance opportunities for degree completion.

Support Services at SHSU

SHSU Bell Tower

Champions for the Next Generation

Faculty share their passions for helping students and the impact their education has had on their career.

Hear from Faculty

New Art building on SHSU campus

Passion to Make a Difference

Wanda Smith’s story of perseverance was featured on the TODAY show, and President White was there to share a surprise announcement.

Wanda's Story

New Art building on SHSU campus

My First-Gen Journey

Brenda Cruz-Flores shares a personal reflection on her college experience and the fellow Bearkat that encouraged her.

Brenda's Story

New Art building on SHSU campus

Lifelong Learning

At 75-years-old, James W. Floyd has reached an incredible milestone: earning a physics degree.

James' Story

New Art building on SHSU campus

Championship Win

The Bearkat’s extraordinary run through the playoffs included an exciting grand finale celebration.

View Championship Photos

New Art building on SHSU campus

First-Gen Student Athlete

SHSU Linebacker Quentin Brown is chasing his dreams on and off the field.

Quentin's Story

A woman holding up her graduate cap in front of her face.

Class Notes

Learn the latest accomplishments of your fellow Bearkat Alumni.

Read More


The Texas State University System Board of Regents

  • Charlie Amato, Chairman - San Antonio
  • Duke Austin, First Vice Chairman - Houston
  • Garry Crain, Second Vice Chairman - The Hills
  • Sheila Faske - Rose City
  • Dionicio (Don) Flores - El Paso
  • Nicki Harle - Baird
  • Stephen Lee - Beaumont
  • William F. Scott - Nederland
  • Alan L. Tinsley - Madisonville
  • Camile Settegast, Student Regent - Horseshoe Bay
  • Brian McCall, Chancellor - Austin

Sam Houston University Foundation Board of Trustees

  • Leo T. "Tommy" Metcalf, President - Conroe
  • Preston Johnson, Jr., Vice President - Sugar Land
  • Ferne S. Frosch, Secretary - Huntsville
  • Robert E. Hutson, Treasurer - Katy
  • Charles E. Amato - San Antonio
  • Richard A. Hartley - Houston
  • Russell Molina - Houston
  • Erin M. Steele - Pearland
  • Gary L. Whitlock - The Woodlands

Heritage Archives

Heritage Magazine is published three times a year by the Office of University Advancement to keep alumni, donors and friends of Sam Houston State University connected to the campus community. For more information about the magazine email the editor - heritage@shsu.edu.

See the Archives