Damon Derrick has been named the new general counsel for Stephen F. Austin State University. He has served as interim since March.

Derrick first joined the general counsel's office in 2008 after completing his degree at The University of Mississippi School of Law. He also holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing from Lamar University and is a member of the Texas State Bar Association and the National Association of College and University Attorneys.

"A committee headed by Melvin White, chair of the Board of Regents, conducted a nationwide search for our new general counsel, and we received many applications from all over the country," SFA President Baker Pattillo said. "I am very pleased that the committee recommended Damon Derrick, and I know he will do an excellent job as general counsel for SFA."

The general counsel reports directly to the SFA Board of Regents and provides legal oversight and advice on matters related to the university. As the in-house attorney for SFA, Derrick will serve as a problem solver, legal trouble shooter and adviser to the university, Board of Regents, administration, faculty and staff.

"I am honored to have been selected as general counsel for SFA and look forward to continuing to serve this truly great university," Derrick said.