Today@Sam Article

SHSU Bearkat Advantage Program Expands to Serve More High School Students

Jan. 14, 2025
SHSU Media Contact: Emily Binetti

BearkatAdvantageUpdateSquare.jpgSam Houston State University (SHSU) is broadening its commitment to empowering high school students with expanded access to higher education opportunities. Launched in 2023 through partnerships with Huntsville ISD and Goose Creek CISD, the Bearkat Advantage Program is now reaching even more districts across Texas. 

Through the program, SHSU provides scholarships to students in partner districts, strengthens relationships with district personnel and encourages students to pursue higher education at SHSU. These partnerships grant students access to enhanced resources, including: 

  • Scholarship Opportunities: Dedicated funding to support college costs. 
  • Seamless Admissions Support: Services like advising, application fee waivers and auto-admission for students in the top 25% of their class. 
  • Heightened Communication: Streamlined enrollment messaging through district personnel.  

“Our Bearkat Advantage Program creates seamless pathways for students to join the SHSU family,” said Ryan Marlin, associate vice president for recruitment and admissions. “By collaborating with district counselors, we’re empowering students to rise to greater opportunities and make higher education more accessible and attainable.” 

Newly added partner districts include: 

  • Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD 
  • Madisonville ISD  
  • New Waverly ISD  
  • Waller ISD 
  • Willis ISD  

      These additions expand SHSU’s reach, empowering even more students to achieve their academic goals and join the Bearkat community. For more information about the Bearkat Advantage Program, contact Ryan Marlin or John Jordan.  

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