Spotlight On: Amanda Withers, CFO & Senior Vice President for Operations, Sam Houston State University
May 2025 — In an interview with Invest:, Amanda Withers, CFO and senior vice president for operations at Sam Houston State University, discussed workforce demands and how population growth is contributing to the region’s economic vitality, allowing SHSU to contribute $3.9 billion to the Texas economy. “In Walker County alone, we contribute $317 million, and 1 in 9 jobs is linked to the university,” she said.
Over the past year, what have been the most significant financial or operational milestones for Sam Houston State University?
Over the past year, we have focused on expanding our Conroe campus. We completed the parking garage, which will allow us to build our Health Professions building. This building will be the second on our Conroe campus and will complement the College of Osteopathic Medicine, which will expand our offerings in physician assistant and physical therapy programs. This expansion is significant because it addresses the growing needs of Montgomery County, which is experiencing rapid population growth. We have also been recommissioning some of our buildings to improve energy efficiency. By adjusting mechanical settings, we have the potential to save over $60,000 annually in energy costs.
Additionally, we have demolished the outdated press box at our Huntsville campus. We are now constructing a new $60 million press box that will include luxury suites and a club area, enhancing the fan experience to align with our Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) program. This year, our football team achieved bowl eligibility and doubled its number of wins, making this project timely and exciting.
What makes the Houston region an ideal location for educational institutions, and for people and businesses to relocate or expand?
The Houston region is thriving due to its explosive population growth as people continue to be drawn to areas with strong healthcare and education systems. Sam Houston State University, along with other great universities and healthcare providers in the region, helps make Houston an attractive place to live, work, and raise families. The combination of educational opportunities and quality healthcare creates a fertile environment for growth.
What economic impact does SHSU have on the Texas economy?
Our economic impact study revealed that Sam Houston State University generates $3.9 billion for the Texas economy and supports over 48,000 jobs. In Walker County alone, we contribute $317 million, and 1 in 9 jobs is linked to the university. This impact is driven by several factors. First, the employment of our faculty and staff directly contributes to the economy. Second, students living and working in the region spend money on retail, restaurants, and housing, boosting local businesses. Third, our growing portfolio of federally, state, and privately funded research stimulates further economic activity. Finally, our active participation in and support of the local community creates a ripple effect of economic benefits, reinforcing our role as a key driver of regional prosperity.
How does Sam Houston State University differentiate itself from other educational institutions in Greater Houston?
Sam Houston State University stands out due to our focus on excellence in the classroom and service to the community. Our motto, “The measure of a life is its service,” is deeply ingrained in our culture. As a regional university, we have a strong commitment to serving the educational and economic needs of our community while fostering deep ties with the areas we operate in. This combination of academic excellence and community engagement sets us apart.
What new trends are emerging in employer demand, and how is the university adapting to meet workforce needs?
Employers increasingly seek candidates with tangible skills who can immediately contribute to their organizations. At Sam Houston State University, we are adapting by offering stackable credentials and certificates that allow students to gain practical skills quickly. For example, we are reviving the Josey School of Vocational Education, now called the SHSU Polytechnic College, to provide upskilling opportunities in high-demand fields like computer science, paralegal studies, and AI. These programs will allow students to build credentials toward a bachelor’s degree while balancing work and education.
What financial and operational investments have been made to further enhance SHSU Online and digital learning?
Sam Houston State University has been a leader in online education since long before the pandemic. Our SHSU Online department offers a wide range of online degree programs. We are also expanding our online offerings through the SHSU Polytechnic College, which will provide certificates and degrees in high-demand fields. However, we recognize the importance of balancing online and in-person education to meet the diverse needs of our students.
How do partnerships, such as establishing transfer pathways, align with SHSU’s strategic goals, and what financial considerations come into play?
Transfer pathways are critical to our strategic goals of student success and retention. By ensuring that credits transfer seamlessly, we help students complete their degrees faster and with less debt. These pathways also align with our commitment to making education accessible and affordable. Financially, reducing coursework that is not necessary for their degree plan saves students money and allows them to enter the workforce sooner, benefiting both the students and the economy.
With the updated FAFSA process and financial aid landscape shifting, how is SHSU ensuring students and families are well-prepared for these changes?
Communication and education are key. We are working closely with students and families to explain the changes in the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) process and how they impact financial aid. Last year was particularly challenging due to delays and uncertainties, but we provided ongoing support to ensure families understood their options and timelines. Our goal is to empower students and families with the information they need to make informed decisions about their education.
What excites you most about the future of SHSU, and what are your top priorities for the next two to three years?
We have several exciting projects in the pipeline. At the Woodlands Center, we are renovating the facility to increase nursing student capacity by 70%, addressing the critical nursing shortage in Texas. On the Conroe Campus, construction is underway for the Health Professions building, and we are strategically planning how to best utilize 4.8 acres for future expansion. At the Huntsville Campus, in addition to the new $60 million press box, we are designing an active learning building that will house interdisciplinary classrooms. These projects reflect our commitment to growth, innovation, and meeting the evolving needs of our students and community.
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