Today@Sam Article

New Dean of SHSU College of Arts & Media Announced

Feb. 20, 2025
SHSU Media Contact: Emily Binetti

Jason Vest has been named the new dean of the Sam Houston State University College of Arts & Media (CAM), effective July 1.

Vest comes to SHSU from Northern Kentucky University where he serves as associate provost for academic and student affairs, and professor of voice.

“I am delighted to have Dr. Vest join SHSU,” Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Michael T. Stephenson said. “I am confident Dr. Vest’s leadership experience and strategic outlook will be influential at the college and across Texas.”

Vest has more than 100 professional appearances with opera, oratorio, symphonic and choral organizations, three Grammy-nominated albums, scholarly and professional publications and directorial experience among other projects. In his administrative roles over the past eight years, Vest has led initiatives that have increased student recruitment, retention and graduation rates, as well as increased retention and development of faculty and staff. Prior to his 11 years at Northern Kentucky University, Vest was on faculty at Eastern New Mexico University. He received his Doctor of Musical Arts in vocal performance at the University of Kentucky.

Sam Houston State University’s College of Arts & Media offers educational programming through five academic areas: the Departments of Art, Dance, Mass Communication, Theatre and Musical Theatre and the School of Music. CAM offers undergraduate and graduate degrees that combine theory and practice.

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