The announcement of Douglass's new title and administrative duties, which will now include athletics in addition to the student services area she has overseen since 1993, was made Tuesday by Dr. Bobby K. Marks, SHSU president. The action is effective July 1.
Marks also announced that a national search will be conducted for the position of vice president of academic affairs, which has been held on an interim basis since October 1995 by Dr. James Gilmore. Gilmore plans to retire as soon as his replacement is selected, Marks said.
"I appreciate the tremendous support the SHSU community has shown to me during the university's transition period," said Marks, who was named the university's 11th president June 4. "As we strive to bring this period to a close, I know that Dr. Douglass will be able to count on that same support in her new position."
Marks said the decision was made based on the university's experience in combining academic affairs, student services, and athletics under one vice president since 1990.
"It was determined that it would be in the best interest of the University to divide those functions," he said. "No additional positions will be added as a result of the reorganization."
Douglass received her bachelor of arts, master of education, and doctor of education degrees from the University of Houston. She also did post baccalaureate work at Texas Southern University and the International School of Theology at Fort Collins, Colo.
Since coming to Sam Houston State she has been responsible for the following departments: the Dean of Student Life Office, Counseling Services, Career Services, Public Safety Services, Lowman Student Center, Health Center, Recreational Sports and Activities, and Students' Legal Services.
She has been active in the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, the National Association of Student Personnel Administration, and the American College Personnel Association. Her community activities have included the Huntsville Leadership Institute, Huntsville Chamber of Commerce, and Huntsville Rotary. She has received numerous awards and honors.
"I am extremely pleased to have the opportunity to serve in this role," said Douglass. " 'The Measure of a Life is Its Service' is the motto of Sam Houston State University, and permeates the very fabric of my existence. I, along with the people in the Division of Student Services, am committed to unlocking potential through education, leadership and service."
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June 18, 1996