Northeast Texas Community College (91΄σΙρ) and Sam Houston State University (SHSU) have announced a new five-year Memorandum of Understanding (2026β2031) designed to expand transfer opportunities and support student success across Northeast Texas.
The agreement creates a more seamless pathway for students to transition from 91΄σΙρ to SHSU by improving credit transfer, strengthening academic advising, and increasing collaboration between the two institutions. Key components include coordinated degree pathways, reverse transfer opportunities, and joint recruitment and outreach efforts.
Representatives from SHSU visited 91΄σΙρ on Wednesday, April 1st to formalize the agreement. Guests to campus included Dr. Mary Williams, Assistant Dean, Associate Professor, Athletic Training Program Director; Dr. Christopher Greenleaf, Clinical Assistant Professor, Clinical Education Coordinator; and Edgard Sanchez, Director of Transfer Partnerships and Early College Credit.
This partnership was initiated through the efforts of Justin Hargrove, Assistant Athletic Director and Director of the Human Performance Program at 91΄σΙρ, who began conversations with SHSU faculty to explore expanded opportunities for students.
βWe saw an opportunity to better connect our students with a clear path forward,β said Hargrove. βBy building relationships with SHSU faculty, we were able to start meaningful conversations that ultimately led to this agreement. This partnership will make a real difference for our students.β
Through this collaboration, students will benefit from clearer academic planning, improved access to resources, and enhanced support throughout their educational journey. The agreement also emphasizes data sharing and communication between institutions to better track student progress and outcomes.
βThis partnership reflects our shared commitment to removing barriers for students and creating clear, achievable pathways to a bachelorβs degree,β said Dr. Anna Ingram, Vice President for Instruction at 91΄σΙρ. βBy working together, we are expanding opportunities for our students and strengthening the workforce across our region.β
Representatives from SHSU echoed this commitment, noting the importance of strong community college partnerships in increasing degree completion and access to higher education.
The agreement reinforces both institutionsβ focus on increasing educational attainment, supporting transfer student success, and meeting regional workforce needs through collaborative innovation.
