Associate Athletic Director Joe Reed discusses his commitment to advancing SHSU’s athletic programs and the exciting developments underway.
Huntsville, TX – Joe Reed, the Associate Athletic Director for Athletic Development at Sam Houston State University (SHSU), has taken on a pivotal role in the university’s push to enhance its athletic programs. A 2016 graduate of SHSU, Reed’s connection to the university runs deep, and his passion for its growth is evident in his every effort. Now six months into his role, Reed is more committed than ever to ensuring that SHSU’s athletic programs not only compete but excel on a national stage.
A Bearkat Through and Through
Reed’s journey at SHSU began as a student. “I graduated from Sam Houston in 2016 with a degree in business, and I’ve been a Bearkat ever since,” Reed shared. His connection to the university is personal as well as professional. It was during his time as a student that he met his wife, another Bearkat. “It’s a bit of a Hallmark story,” he laughed. “We met at a fraternity-sorority mixer, and the rest is history. After we graduated, we moved around a bit, but Huntsville always felt like home.”
In 2018, Reed returned to SHSU in a professional capacity, joining the university’s Alumni Association. It was here that he honed the skills that would later prove invaluable in his role in athletic development. “Working in the Alumni Association was all about relationships,” Reed explained. “I had the opportunity to connect with a wide range of Bearkats, from recent graduates to alumni who had been part of the university for decades. That experience really prepared me for the work I’m doing now in Athletics Development.”
Building Relationships and Raising Support
Reed’s current role involves overseeing fundraising efforts for SHSU’s athletic programs, and he’s approaching the task with the same relationship-building mindset that served him well in the Alumni Association. “Fundraising is really about connecting with people and getting them excited about what we’re doing,” he said. “It’s not just about asking for donations; it’s about sharing our vision and inviting people to be part of something bigger.”
Part of that vision includes significant upgrades to SHSU’s athletic facilities. The university is in the midst of several major projects, all aimed at enhancing the experience for student-athletes and fans alike. “We have so much going on right now,” Reed said enthusiastically. “The Beckner Tennis Complex is nearing completion, and we’re upgrading the softball field with new turf. These are just a few of the exciting developments happening on campus.”
One of the most anticipated projects is the renovation of Bowers Stadium, which includes a complete overhaul of the Press Box. The Texas State University System Board of Regents recently approved the project, and Reed is eager to see it come to life. “We’ve been talking about these renovations for a long time, and now that we have the Board of Regents’ approval, we’re ready to get started,” he explained. “The plan is to begin construction right after the football season ends. This is a big step forward for our athletic programs and a sign of our commitment to providing top-notch facilities for our student-athletes.”
A Long Road to Success
Reed is quick to acknowledge the work of those who came before him in laying the groundwork for SHSU’s athletic success. “This hasn’t been a two- or three-year process,” he said. “It’s been a 10- to 15-year journey. People like Bobby Williams have been instrumental in getting us to this point. Bobby has been with the university for a long time and has always been passionate about making sure that Sam Houston is in the best possible position. It’s incredible to see where we are now compared to where we were when I first came to campus.”
Reflecting on his time as a student, Reed recalled the excitement of SHSU’s national championship runs. “I was lucky to be part of the student body when we started going to national championships. The energy and excitement around those games were unbelievable,” he said. “Now, as we move into the FBS (Football Bowl Subdivision), it feels like we’re reaching a new level. It’s the culmination of years of hard work, and it’s amazing to be part of it.”
Looking Ahead
As the fall sports season approaches, Reed is particularly excited about the upcoming football season. “Football is always the driving force in any athletic program, and we’re just a few weeks away from kickoff,” he said. “Coach Keeler and the team have been working hard, and we have some great new players coming in. I think it’s going to be an exciting season.”
In addition to football, Reed is also looking forward to the start of the soccer season and the continued progress of the university’s various athletic programs. “We have something happening with every sport,” he said. “Whether it’s new facilities, new coaching staff, or new recruits, there’s always something to be excited about. Our goal is to keep building on our success and to ensure that our student-athletes have everything they need to succeed.”
Reed’s long-term vision for SHSU Athletics is one of continued growth and excellence. “We’re not done yet,” he emphasized. “There’s always more to do, more to build, and more to achieve. But I’m confident that we’re on the right path, and I’m proud to be part of this journey.”
Connecting with Alumni
A key component of Reed’s role is engaging with SHSU alumni, many of whom are eager to support the university’s athletic programs. “We have about 140,000 living alumni, and they’re spread out all over the country,” Reed noted. “Whether they graduated last year or decades ago, Bearkats are proud of their university, and they want to see it thrive.”
Reed shared a recent experience that illustrates the strong connection between SHSU and its alumni. “My wife and I were in Las Vegas a few months ago, and I was wearing my Sam Houston hat. Out of nowhere, this guy walks up to me and says, ‘Eat ’em up, Kats!’ We started talking, and it turns out he was a graduate from the late ’80s. It was just a reminder that no matter where you go, you’ll find Bearkats who are proud of their university.”
For Reed, connecting with alumni is not just about fundraising; it’s about maintaining the strong sense of community that defines SHSU. “I love hearing alumni stories,” he said. “Whether it’s someone who was here in the ’60s or a recent grad, everyone has a unique experience and a deep connection to the university. Those connections are what make this job so rewarding.”
Final Thoughts
As Joe Reed continues his work at SHSU, he’s focused on the future but always mindful of the university’s rich history and the many people who have contributed to its success. “We’ve come a long way, and we’re going to keep pushing forward,” he said. “I’m proud to be a Bearkat, and I’m excited to see what the future holds for SHSU Athletics.”
For those interested in supporting SHSU’s athletic programs, Reed encourages them to get involved. “Whether it’s through time, talent, or treasure, there are so many ways to contribute,” he said. “We’re building something special here, and we want everyone to be part of it.”
Joe Reed’s passion, dedication, and vision are driving forces behind SHSU’s athletic success. As the university continues to grow and evolve, there’s no doubt that Reed will play a key role in shaping its future.
