Director of Campus Activities Breanna Dotson fosters traditions and school spirit at SHSU, strengthening community bonds.
HUNTSVILLE, TX – Breanna Dotson, the Director of Campus Activities and Traditions at Sam Houston State University (SHSU), has spent years dedicated to creating a vibrant and engaging campus atmosphere. Her deep connection to SHSU, both as a student and a professional, has made her a pivotal figure in fostering student engagement through a variety of activities, events, and cherished university traditions.
Dotson, who hails from Onalaska, Texas, has always had a passion for SHSU. After graduating from high school, she enrolled at Sam Houston State, initially with no plans to leave. “I knew I wanted to be here,” she reflected. “I started working for the university while I was still getting my undergraduate degree, and I realized this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.” That decision led her to pursue her master’s degree in higher education at SHSU, and she is now working toward her doctorate in the same field. “It’s been an incredible journey,” Dotson shared, “and Sam Houston has always felt like home to me.”
Her role as Director of Campus Activities and Traditions is one that Dotson holds dear. “I love overseeing our traditions,” she said. “It’s truly special to see how students connect with these events and how they grow to appreciate the university more because of them.” Some of the major traditions under her purview include Bearkat Alley, Welcome Week, Homecoming, and the annual Tree of Light ceremony. Dotson and her team also help with the Alumni Association’s Ring Ceremony, where graduating students are honored as they receive their official SHSU rings.
But her job isn’t just about maintaining the university’s long-standing traditions. Dotson also leads a group of students in the Campus Activities Board (CAB), which organizes five free events every month for students. “The Campus Activities Board is made up of seven students who are incredibly passionate about enhancing the student experience,” she explained. “We want to ensure that every student feels connected and has opportunities to get involved.”
The growth of SHSU’s athletics programs, particularly the recent move to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), has brought national attention to the university, and Dotson sees this as a key part of the broader campus experience. “The football team’s success and our FBS transition have been phenomenal,” she said. “It’s not just about sports. The recognition we’re getting from outlets like ESPN and Sports Illustrated has made people more excited about being Bearkats, and that energy spreads to everything we do on campus.”
Dotson recalled her early years at SHSU when student attendance at athletic events wasn’t as high as it is now. “When I was an undergraduate, a lot of students would tailgate, but not as many went into the games,” she remembered. “That’s changed. Now, students are either at the games or watching them at tailgate, and the energy is incredible. You can feel the school spirit growing every year.”
That school spirit is evident at events like Bearkat Alley, which takes place before every home football game. “Bearkat Alley is one of the highlights of the year for many students and alumni. It’s not just about tailgating—it’s about bringing everyone together, from students to faculty to alumni, and building that sense of community.”
Dotson works closely with Adam Bright, SHSU’s Director of Fan Engagement, to coordinate activities that get students involved at athletic events. “Adam has been great to work with,” Dotson said. “He’s come up with some amazing ideas, like the recent Pups at the Pritchett event during a soccer game and Blocktoberfest at a volleyball match. He’s really focused on making sure students are engaged with all of our sports teams, not just football.”
One of the most memorable events for Dotson this year was the game at NRG Stadium, where the Bearkats played in front of one of the largest crowds she had ever seen. “The stadium was packed,” she said. “It was such an incredible feeling to see so many people supporting the team, and it just shows how much SHSU has grown in terms of recognition.”
In addition to her work on game days, Dotson is also involved in other major university events. “Homecoming is always a special time,” she said. “This year, we had incredible participation from the Huntsville community, with people lining up along Sam Houston Avenue to watch the parade. The carnival was open to the public, and it was so rewarding to see so many families come out and enjoy the festivities.”
As Dotson looks to the future, she’s excited about upcoming traditions like the Tree of Light ceremony, which is scheduled for November 19th. “It’s one of my favorite events,” she said. “We have a festival beforehand with games and activities, and then we count down together as we light the tree. It’s a moment where the whole community comes together to celebrate.”
The event is open to both students and the local community, and Dotson encourages everyone to get involved. “It’s not just for students,” she emphasized. “We invite everyone to come and enjoy the events we have on campus. SHSU is a big part of Huntsville, and we want the community to feel connected to the university.”
For Dotson, that connection is what makes SHSU so unique. “There’s a real family atmosphere here,” she said. “We’re not just a university—we’re a community. Our students are passionate about being Bearkats, and that enthusiasm spreads to everyone they come into contact with. It’s what makes Sam Houston State special.”
As she continues her journey at SHSU, Dotson remains committed to creating the best possible experience for students. “We’re always looking for ways to improve and to make sure our students have the best experience they can during their time here,” she said. “I’m excited to see what the future holds.”
Dotson’s dedication to SHSU and her passion for campus traditions make her an integral part of the university’s ongoing success. As the Bearkat community grows and evolves, she remains focused on fostering a sense of belonging and pride in all who pass through the halls of Sam Houston State University.
To contact Breanna Dotson, email bdotson@shsu.edu or call 936-294-3077.
