Banker Phares received the Nancy C. Speck Development Award during SFA's 27th annual Gala.

Banker Phares received the Nancy C. Speck Development Award during SFA's 27th annual Gala. The award recognizes outstanding individuals who have advanced the university's mission through development methods. Pictured are, from left, Jimmy Mize, chair, SFASU Foundation Board of Trustees; Dr. Nancy Speck, former SFA vice president for university advancement and Nelson Rusche College of Business faculty member; Phares; Dr. Baker Pattillo, SFA president; and Jill Still, vice president for university advancement.


NACOGDOCHES, Texas — The Nancy C. Speck Development Award was presented during the 27th Stephen F. Austin State University Gala to Banker Phares, who serves as the John and Karen Mast Professor in SFA’s Nelson Rusche College of Business. Phares also is a senior lecturer of finance and director of SFA’s financial planning program.

Dr. Nancy C. Speck is a former SFA vice president for university advancement, as well as a Nelson Rusche College of Business faculty member. Speck has remained committed to civic service, dedicating her expertise to numerous state and national boards and committees related to education, mental health and economic development.

The award was established in 2009 to recognize outstanding individuals such as volunteers, students or faculty and staff members who have advanced the university’s mission through development methods.

Phares holds a degree in government from Lamar University and a juris doctorate from Southern Methodist University. He served on the board of editors of the Southwestern Law Review and is board certified in estate planning and probate. Phares has served on the SFA faculty since 2009.