Holmes Named Advancement VP

Frank R. Holmes

"In my judgment, Mr. Holmes has the personality, professional experience, and the drive to make a great contribution to our university," said James F. Gaertner, SHSU president. "I am personally very pleased with the work of the search committee that identified three outstanding candidates for the position."

Holmes said that he and his wife were happy to be returning to Texas.

"It is an honor for Maria and me to accept this appointment," Holmes said. "We look forward to returning to Texas. We felt right at home with all the wonderful people we met during the extensive interview process. I am impressed with the status of the university and have confidence that it will achieve great things under the leadership of President Gaertner."

Holmes has worked in his present position for two and a half years, during which he has been in charge of strategic planning, development, capital campaign preparation, marketing, alumni and parent relations, admission, records, communication, recognition programs, and trustee relations.

Previously he was associate vice president for advancement/alumni at the University of Memphis from 1995-99, and executive vice president and chief operating officer for the University of Houston Alumni Organization, Inc., from 1984-95.

Holmes earned his bachelor's degree in political science in 1975 from the University of Memphis. He and his wife, Maria, have three children.

The search for a new vice president for university advancement at Sam Houston State University began this summer. The three finalists included Jack Gray, vice president for marketing and resource development at Texas A&M University-Commerce, and Herman Smith, superintendent of the Bryan school district. Smith, who has been active in the SHSU alumni association, withdrew because of his commitment to the school district.

- END -

SHSU Media Contact: Frank Krystyniak
Oct. 2, 2002
Please send comments, corrections, news tips to Today@Sam.edu