SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 396

WHEREAS, Stephen F. Austin State University is holding an investiture ceremony for its 11th president, Dr. Neal Weaver, on May 1, 2025; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Weaver was selected for this distinguished position by The University of Texas System Board of Regents in March 2024, following a rigorous search process and a unanimous vote to appoint him; he began his tenure as president on May 13, 2024; and

WHEREAS, During the first year of his presidency, Dr. Weaver has ably guided Stephen F. Austin State University in cultivating a supportive environment for its students, faculty, and staff; he is certain to continue to lead the institution to new heights as the latest addition to The University of Texas System, with a clear focus on furthering the university's academic mission, fostering innovation, and strengthening its ties to the East Texas community; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Weaver has brought to his position a wealth of experience in higher education leadership; he previously served as president of Georgia Southwestern State University and as vice president for university advancement and innovation at Nicholls State University, and he held various prominent roles at West Texas A&M University and Northeastern State University; and

WHEREAS, Throughout his career, Dr. Weaver has demonstrated a commitment to student success, institutional growth, and academic excellence; he has driven significant progress in enrollment, retention, and fundraising at every institution he has served; and

WHEREAS, Highly educated, Dr. Weaver holds a bachelor's degree from Oklahoma Panhandle State University, a master of business administration degree from Southeastern Oklahoma State University, and a doctor of philosophy degree in organizational leadership from the University of Oklahoma; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Neal Weaver has proven himself to be an accomplished leader in higher education and an effective advocate for students, and the Stephen F. Austin State University community is indeed fortunate to have him at the helm of the institution; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 89th Legislature, hereby congratulate Dr. Neal Weaver on his investiture as president of Stephen F. Austin State University and extend to him sincere best wishes for continued success with his important work; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That an official copy of this Resolution be prepared for Dr. Weaver as an expression of high regard from the Texas Senate.

Campbell

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on April 14, 2025.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate