A new leader is slated to take the helm of Stephen F. Austin State University (SFA) in Nacogdoches.
Dr. Steve Westbrook is vacating his current position as SFA’s president, having announced his retirement to which the university’s board of regents accepted on Wednesday.
Filling the void as interim president is Vice President for Finance and Administration Gina Oglesbee, East Texas-based media outlets reported.
Tyler CBS affiliate KYTX reported that Westbrook’s retirement is effective May 31.
Oglesbee, in turn, will begin her new role on June 1, the station reported, citing the university.
She’ll not be considered for the current position, per KYTX.
“The SFA community has worked with Gina for almost 20 years,” SFA Board of Regents Chair Karen Gantt said in the report. “She has a deep knowledge of the university’s business operations, finances, culture and traditions, and she is an ideal candidate to lead SFA in its transition to the University of Texas System.”
The Houston Chronicle reported that Senate Bill (SB) 1055 earned Gov. Greg Abbott’s signature after it passed both chambers of the Texas House of Representatives.
The development comes nearly half a year after the SFA Board of Regents elected to accept the UT System’s offer for affiliation.
Per Tyler NBC affiliate KETK, Oglesbee said, “It is an honor to serve as the interim president during this historic time with the transition to the University of Texas System and the centennial celebration.”
“I appreciate the support and trust of the SFA Board of Regents and Chancellor [James] Milliken,” she continued. “I am optimistic and excited for SFA’s future and look forward to continuing to work with our faculty and staff for the success of our students.”
KETK reported that Oglesbee, who holds a master’s degree from the school, is also its first female president.
“I have great respect for Gina, and I think it’s really great for the university because of her knowledge of our university and its workings,” Westbrook said, according to the station.
