The Southern Arkansas University System Board of Trustees met on Thursday, March 5, 2026, on the SAU–Magnolia campus in a regularly scheduled session.
Trustees approved the previous meeting minutes and heard reports on academic programs, workforce development, and student success initiatives across the SAU System.
Dr. Bruno Hicks, SAU president
Dr. Bruno Hicks, SAU president, began the meeting by welcoming Joe Pieratt as a new member of the Southern Arkansas University System Board of Trustees and expressing appreciation for his willingness to serve the University.
Hicks provided an overview of recent accomplishments and ongoing initiatives across the University, including the success of the first cohort of the Mulerider Next Step Guarantee program. Hicks noted that approximately 80% of the freshman class chose to participate during its first year. To build on its early success and strong student interest, the University plans to transition the initiative to an opt-out model beginning with the fall 2026 cohort and is also exploring transfer pathways so transfer students can benefit.
Hicks also discussed efforts to strengthen SAU’s systemwide pathway approach between SAU Tech and SAU, including expanded 2+2 and transfer partnerships aimed at creating clearer degree pathways.
SAU students and Rider Residents Kylie Pugh and Olivia Munn present to the Board of Trustees.
The Board heard from two students in SAU’s College of Education and Human Performance participating in the Rider Residency Program. Kylie Pugh and Olivia Munn shared reflections on their year-long residency experiences, highlighting the value of full-year classroom immersion, mentorship, and professional development. Pugh noted that being paid during the residency allowed her to focus fully on her students and her development as a teacher, while Munn said the experience provided hands-on preparation that helped her transition from observing in the classroom to leading instruction.
Dr. Jerry Thomas, SAU Tech chancellor, provided updates on recent achievements and momentum on the SAU Tech campus. Thomas reported that SAU Tech has received $20 million in federal funding to support construction and equipment for a Defense Manufacturing Center of Excellence in Camden. The planned 50,000-square-foot facility will expand hands-on training capacity in high-demand areas. The project is expected to strengthen regional workforce pipelines and support employer needs tied to the Highland Industrial Park and the broader southwest Arkansas region.
Dr. Jerry Thomas, SAU Tech chancellor
Thomas discussed the college’s new EMS training facility, as well as recent community investment in Rocket Arena, including a floor sponsorship commitment from Farmers Bank & Trust. He also presented institutional performance data and marketing outreach reports demonstrating increased visibility, digital engagement, and community participation in recent campus events.
Dr. Robin Sronce, SAU provost and vice president for academic affairs, presented several new academic programs and program modifications for approval. The Board approved a minor in dance, BS in integrated livestock management, a graduate certificate in project management, an MBA with an emphasis in rural healthcare administration, and several 4+1 degree programs. These academic changes will be presented for formal approval to the Arkansas Division of Higher Education.
Dr. Connie Wilson, SAU vice president for advancement
Dr. Connie Wilson, SAU vice president for advancement, provided updates on fundraising efforts and alumni engagement. Wilson reported that 2025 was a record-breaking year for fundraising, with more than $8 million raised through combined efforts across development, alumni relations, grants, and foundation partners. She also shared updates on alumni programming and upcoming events, including scholarship and donor engagement activities scheduled this spring.
Roger Giles, SAU vice president for administration and general counsel, presented a resolution outlining state policy for reimbursement of expenses for Board of Trustees members. The resolution was approved.
Shawana Reed, SAU vice president for finance, and Michael Armstrong, SAU Tech vice chancellor for finance and administration, presented the 2023–2024 audit reports and year-end financial updates, which trustees accepted and approved. Reed also joined Jim Fowler of the Rose Law Firm to present a bond execution resolution related to the refinancing of the University’s privatized housing project, which trustees approved.
Following the executive session, the Board approved personnel changes and adjourned the meeting.
About SAU:
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.
