If you’ve been around Stephen F. Austin State University (SFA) lately, you’ve probably heard about Neal Weaver, the university’s new president. With a career rooted in education and a mission to empower others, Dr. Weaver has been busy reimagining what it means to lead a university.
In my latest The Cheat Sheet interview, I had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Weaver to discuss his vision for SFA, lessons learned over his career, and what makes him excited about the university’s future. Below are highlights from our conversation.
Note: Interview condensed for clarity and brevity.
MUSA: You’ve been at SFA for a short time now. How has the transition been for you?
WEAVER: It’s been a whirlwind! I’ve only been here a few months, so I’m still learning the ropes—figuring out which chair to sit in and which building to walk into [laughs]. But the energy on campus is incredible, and I’m excited to be part of this community.
MUSA: Can you tell us about your vision for SFA and what you hope to accomplish?
WEAVER: My goal is simple: help SFA reach its full potential. This university has incredible faculty, staff, and students, but there are always areas where we can improve. I’m not interested in putting artificial limits on what we can achieve. Instead, I focus on finding opportunities where we can grow.
One example is our recent athletic conference change. By moving to the Southland Conference, we’ve reduced the travel burden for our student-athletes. They can spend more time on campus and in class, and our local community can enjoy more games.
We’ve also made practical changes, like relocating key student services to areas that make sense—putting Residential Living in the Village residence halls, for instance. It’s all about making life easier and more intuitive for students, especially first-generation ones.
MUSA: You’ve mentioned that leadership is about unlocking potential in others. How do you approach that as president?
WEAVER: I believe a leader’s job is to remove limits, not impose them. I try to encourage people to see their potential and give them the tools to achieve it. One piece of advice I always share is not to make decisions before you have to. The more time you give yourself to think, the better your decisions will be.
MUSA: Reflecting on your career, what’s a key lesson that’s shaped your leadership style?
WEAVER: Leadership starts with understanding your beliefs about people. Do you think people are naturally cooperative, or do they need structure to function? Your answer shapes how you lead.
For me, I lean toward believing in people’s natural ability to work together and support one another. That belief drives my transparent, collaborative style. I also try to make myself accessible—if students see me on campus, I want them to say hi, share what’s on their minds, or even tell me a good dad joke!
MUSA: What advice would you give to students and future leaders?
WEAVER: Believe in yourself more than your brain tells you to. Surround yourself with people who see your potential and trust them when they push you.
Also, find work that gives you purpose. I’m in education because it changes lives—students’ lives, families’ lives, entire communities. When you find a career where you’re helping others, it’s easier to stay motivated and happy.
MUSA: What’s next for SFA?
WEAVER: We’re working on big cultural shifts—becoming more student-focused, removing barriers, and fostering a supportive environment. I’m excited for what’s ahead, and I hope every Lumberjack feels the same.
For more insights from Dr. Neal Weaver, check out The Cheat Sheet podcast, where we explore leadership, growth, and success in higher education.
Until next time, Axe ’Em Jacks!
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