University Leadership

University President

Dr. Neal Weaver began his tenure as president of SFA May 13, 2024. Previously, he was the president of Georgia Southwestern State University.

Before his role at GSW, Dr. Weaver served as the vice president for university advancement and innovation at Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, Louisiana. In this capacity, he provided leadership in fundraising, enrollment management and athletics while generating new revenue and improving retention, operating efficiencies and customer service.

  • President, Georgia Southwestern St. University
  • Vice President for University Advancement and Innovation, Nicholls State University
  • Vice President for Institutional Advancement, West Texas A&M University
  • Executive Director WTAMU Foundation, West Texas A&M University
  • Vice President for University Relations, Northeastern State University

  • Doctor of Philosophy in Organizational Leadership, University of Oklahoma
  • Master of Business Administration, Southeastern Oklahoma State University
  • Bachelor of Arts in Speech and Communications, Oklahoma Panhandle State University

Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs

Dr. Jordan Barkley joined SFA bringing a deep-rooted passion for the transformative power of education. Previously serving as the vice provost for academic resources and faculty affairs at the University of Northern Colorado, Dr. Barkley’s career has been driven by a lifelong dedication to creating and leading meaningful educational experiences.

Transitioning from a background in the middle school classroom to academic leadership, he is committed to empowering faculty and advocating for students to help them become the best-educated versions of themselves.

  • Vice Provost for Academic Resources and Faculty Affairs, University of Northern Colorado
  • Senior Associate Provost and Associate Vice President for Academic Administration, Tarleton State University
  • Dean and Professor, College of Education, Tarleton State University

  • Doctor of Philosophy in Reading Education, Auburn University
  • Master of Science in Reading Education, Auburn University
  • Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education, Auburn University

Senior Vice President for Organizational Effectiveness

Gina Oglesbee's connection to SFA began in childhood, attending campus events while growing up in nearby San Augustine. That early affinity, combined with the university’s stellar reputation, naturally led her to a fulfilling career here.

As a Certified Public Accountant, Oglesbee finds immense professional satisfaction in navigating the university’s complex financial structures and regulations, and she thrives in the vibrant, student-centered environment that defines SFA.

  • Interim President, SFA
  • Vice President for Finance and Administration, SFA
  • Chief Audit Executive, SFA
  • Assistant Administrator and Chief Financial Officer, Nacogdoches County Hospital District/Nacogdoches Memorial Hospital

  • Master of Public Administration, SFA
  • Bachelor of Business Administration with honors in accounting, The University of Texas at Austin

Senior Vice President for Enrollment & Student Engagement

Dr. Kent L. Willis has firsthand experience with SFA's distinctive approach to education. As a 2008 graduate, he experienced the transformative power of mentorship and faculty guidance, which defines the SFA experience.

These personal interactions and moments of growth continue to influence Dr. Willis's vision for student success. "We're preparing students to make meaningful contributions in their chosen fields and communities," he said. "Whether heading to a classroom, clinic, laboratory or boardroom, our graduates leave with the skills and the vision to make a difference."

  • Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, California State University
  • Assistant Vice President and Associate Dean of Graduate Studies, The University of Texas at Tyler
  • Associate Provost and Interim Associate Dean of Medical Student Affairs, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler

  • Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management, Hampton University
  • Master of Education in Secondary Education, East Central University
  • Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies, SFA

Vice President & General Counsel/Chief of Staff

Damon Derrick's professional path to higher education began during his first year of law school, when a meeting with a university’s general counsel revealed both a unique legal career path and a mission that deeply resonated with him.

In his role at SFA, Derrick appreciates the opportunity to practice as a legal generalist, where no two days are the same and he is constantly challenged by a diverse array of legal issues. He finds it highly rewarding to collaborate with dedicated professionals united by a commitment to student success.

  • General Counsel, SFA
  • Staff Attorney, SFA

  • Juris Doctor, University of Mississippi
  • Bachelor of Business Administration, Lamar University

Vice President for Finance

Judith Kruwell

  • Associate vice president of finance and administration, SFA
  • Interim Human Resources director, SFA
  • Director of financial services, SFA

Vice President for University Advancement

Jill Still entered the higher education profession when she was recruited by a former director of university development and immediately recognized that her true calling lay in building the relationships necessary to advance the institution. Today, she views her role as her "dream job," finding deep satisfaction in bridging the perspectives and passions of alumni, parents, students, faculty, staff, and benefactors to create meaningful opportunities for the campus community.

Driven by the belief that SFA excels at preparing students to serve their state, nation, and world, Still is dedicated to fostering a culture of generosity. She hopes that students who benefit from the gifts of previous donors will not only achieve high levels of success in their careers but also feel inspired to give back, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same support.

  • Vice President for Advancement, SFA
  • Director of Development, SFA
  • Associate Director of Development, SFA
  • Assistant Director of Development, SFA

  • Master of Business Administration, SFA
  • Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing, Texas A&M University

Vice President & Director for Athletics

Michael McBroom's driving force of his career in higher education is the opportunity to help young people thrive in both athletics and academics. He views college athletics as a unique, dynamic environment that reinforces classroom learning through competition and team dynamics. McBroom's work is fueled by collaborating with stakeholders to ensure SFA remains a special place for all who pass through its doors.

His ultimate hope for students is that they gain a solid foundation for a "life well-lived," striving for graduates to leave with a deep appreciation for the effort invested in them by their mentors, coaches, and supporters.

  • Director of Athletics, West Texas A&M University
  • Athletic Administrator, West Texas A&M University

  • Master of Sport Science, United States Sports Academy
  • Bachelor of Arts in Advertising, Southern Methodist University

Executive Director for University Marketing Communications

Korbin Pate

  • Senior Director of Development, SFA
  • Major Gifts Officer, SFA
  • Director of Branding and Revenue Generation, SFA

  • Master of Business Administration, SFA
  • Bachelor of Arts in mass communication, SFA