Southern Arkansas University is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Angela Stanford as the new dean of the School of Graduate Studies, effective June 1, 2025. Dr. Stanford brings more than three decades of experience in education, a strong background in academic leadership, and a passion for student success to this vital leadership role.
In her new position, Dr. Stanford will oversee the continued growth and development of graduate programs at SAU, working closely with faculty, staff, and University leadership to enhance academic offerings and expand opportunities for graduate students.
Dr. Angela Stanford, SAU’s dean of Graduate Studies
A proud SAU alumni, Dr. Stanford began her academic journey at Southern Arkansas University, where she earned both her B.S.E. and M.Ed. in Education. She later completed her Ed.S. and Ed.D. in Educational Leadership at Liberty University and holds National Board Certification in Teaching. Her career in education spans 34 years, including 23 years in K–12 education before transitioning to higher education.
Before being named dean, Dr. Stanford served as chair of the department of Doctoral Studies and director of the Ed.D. in Rural and Diverse Educational Leadership. She has also held key roles within SAU’s College of Education and Human Performance, including director of Middle and Secondary Education and MAT internship coordinator. She holds faculty rank as associate professor and has played an active role in professional organizations, including a two-year term as elementary science director for the Arkansas Science Teachers Association.
“My professional journey led me back home to SAU; serving as dean of the School of Graduate Studies is not only a privilege but also deeply meaningful,” said Dr. Stanford.
Her research interests include teacher-student connectedness, teaching styles, brain-based learning strategies, closing the STEM gap, and student engagement. She has presented at numerous state, national, and international conferences and has published peer-reviewed articles in Science & Children. She is also co-author of Tinkering with Tales: Using Children’s Literature to Engage in STEM (2021).
Dr. Stanford’s contributions to SAU have been recognized with the 2019 SAU Spirit Award and the 2018 Faculty Excellence Award for Research. Her earlier achievements in K–12 education include several statewide and national honors, such as the Mickelson ExxonMobil Teacher Leadership Award, Arkansas’ Air Force Aviation Teacher of the Year, Arkansas Farm Bureau Agriculture Teacher of the Year, and Hot Springs Teacher of the Year.
SAU’s School of Graduate Studies plays a vital role in the University’s mission to provide quality, accessible education. The graduate school offers a wide range of master’s degrees and certificates in fields such as education, business, computer and information science, agriculture, public administration, and more. Many programs are available entirely online, designed to support working professionals and students seeking flexible learning options.
“Dr. Angela Stanford has been a dedicated member of the SAU community for many years, and her long-standing service has already made a meaningful impact on our students, faculty, and academic programs,” remarked Dr. Bruno Hicks, SAU president. “Her thoughtful leadership and commitment to graduate education make her the right choice to guide the School of Graduate Studies into its next chapter. I am confident in her ability to strengthen and expand our graduate offerings, and I look forward to working alongside her to support the continued growth of graduate education at SAU.”
Dr. Stanford’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Graduate Studies at SAU as the University continues to strengthen its commitment to advanced learning, research, and professional development.
“Dr. Angela Stanford brings a thoughtful and strategic approach to academic leadership,” said Dr. Robin Sronce, vice president for academic affairs. “Her passion for graduate education and her ability to foster cross-disciplinary collaboration will be key as we continue to grow and enhance our graduate programs. I look forward to the impact she will make in advancing opportunities for our students and faculty alike.”
For more information about SAU’s graduate programs, visit www.saumag.edu/graduate.
SAU, located in Magnolia, AR, provides students with a complete college experience in a caring environment of service, innovation, and community. With more than 100 degrees in four distinct colleges and the School of Graduate Studies, SAU initiates new degree programs to fit the needs of career and professional trends of today. As part of this commitment, SAU proudly offers the Next Step Guarantee program, ensuring that students receive the necessary resources, career guidance, and support to transition successfully from college to their chosen careers or graduate studies. To learn more about SAU, visit www.saumag.edu.
