Arkansas Governor Sarah Sanders has appointed Joe Pieratt to the Southern Arkansas University Board of Trustees, adding a respected leader and community advocate to the University’s governing body. His appointment reinforces SAU’s commitment to strong leadership and strategic growth as the University continues building momentum across Arkansas and the region.
Pieratt replaces Nate Evers on the Board of Trustees. SAU extends its sincere appreciation to Evers for his service and dedication to the University.
“I am humbled and honored to accept Governor Sanders’ appointment to the Southern Arkansas University Board of Trustees,” said Pieratt. ”SAU has made a tremendous difference in my life, and I look forward to the opportunity to serve.”
Pieratt serves as Chief Operations Officer for Farmers Bank & Trust, a community-focused financial institution headquartered in Magnolia, AR. Serving in this role since January 2016, he oversees operational strategy and execution across the bank’s markets, helping guide one of the region’s most respected financial institutions. His career reflects a strong background in operations, technology, and strategic leadership.
Prior to joining Farmers Bank & Trust, Pieratt was employed with Ethyl Corporation (now Albemarle) from 1992 to 1998, working in Magnolia, Arkansas, and Pasadena, Texas, in a number of IT roles. In 1998, he joined Air Products & Chemicals as Plant IT Manager and later served as Chem Group IT Manager. In 2000, he returned to southwest Arkansas and spent 15 years with Murphy Oil Corporation in a variety of global IT leadership roles.
Pieratt attended Southern Arkansas University from 1988 to 1992, graduating summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management. A proud SAU alumnus, he has remained deeply engaged with the University and the Magnolia community, serving 12 years on the SAU Foundation Board of Governors and previously on the Rankin College of Business Advisory Council. He was recognized in 2010 as an Outstanding Young Alumni. As a business leader and community advocate, Pieratt understands firsthand SAU’s vital role in workforce development, economic growth, and quality of life in south Arkansas.
His dedication to Magnolia extends well beyond his professional responsibilities. As a former member of the Magnolia Planning Commission for 18 years, including 10 years as chairman, Pieratt helped guide strategic growth and responsible development in the community. Through his leadership at Farmers Bank & Trust and his civic engagement, he has consistently demonstrated a commitment to strengthening local institutions and expanding opportunities for students, families, and businesses throughout the region.
Joe currently resides in Magnolia, Arkansas, and has been married to his wife, Angela Grafton Pieratt, for 34 years. Together, the couple has two children, Abby and Adam. In his personal time, Joe’s interests include cattle farming, traveling, and outdoor sports.
Pieratt’s professional expertise, community investment, and lifelong connection to SAU uniquely position him to serve on the Board of Trustees as the University continues to advance its mission and expand opportunities for future Muleriders.
Dr. Bruno Hicks, SAU president, shared his enthusiasm about Pieratt’s appointment.
“We are excited to welcome Joe Pieratt to the SAU Board of Trustees,” said Hicks. “Joe’s leadership, experience, and commitment to service will be tremendous assets to SAU. As we continue building on our strong foundation and expanding opportunities for our students, I look forward to working alongside him to advance the mission of the University.”
The SAU Board of Trustees plays a critical role in guiding the University’s strategic direction, ensuring responsible stewardship of resources, and supporting student success.
SAU, located in Magnolia, Arkansas, provides students with the complete college experience in a caring environment of service, innovation, and community. With more than 100 degrees across four distinct colleges and the School of Graduate Studies, SAU initiates new degree programs to meet 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.
