NACOGDOCHES, Texas - The Stephen F. Austin State University Board of Regents has appointed Dr. Steve Westbrook as acting president of the university.

In accordance with university policy, regents are authorized to name an acting president to handle administrative matters of the university when the president is unable to fulfill his duties.  

SFA President Baker Pattillo is ill and is undergoing medical assessment, according to Brigettee Henderson, chair of the board of regents.

“We ask that everyone keep Dr. Pattillo and his family in their thoughts and prayers until he is able to return,” Henderson said.

Westbrook has been employed by the university since 1981 and has served as vice president for university affairs since 2007.  He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from SFA and earned a doctorate in higher education leadership from Texas A&M Commerce.