“Graduate school is a place where aspirations
are nurtured, careers are accelerated and
dreams can become realities.”
— Dr. Angela Stanford
Southern Arkansas University proudly announced Dr. Angela Stanford as the new dean of the School of Graduate Studies.
“Dr. Stanford’s thoughtful leadership and commitment to graduate education make her the right choice to guide the School of Graduate Studies into its next chapter,” said SAU President Dr. Bruno Hicks.
While Dr. Stanford aims to expand graduate offerings at SAU, her greater focus is on growing capacity within students — strengthening their impact in professions and communities alike.
“We want to show students that education is about more than collecting degrees. It’s an investment that works both ways,” she said. “We want to get to know our students and open doors for them that help them find and fulfill their purpose. It all comes back to SAU’s culture of care.”
A graduate of Taylor High School, Dr. Stanford chose SAU after receiving an academic scholarship. Torn between veterinary medicine and horticulture, she ultimately pursued science education to combine her interests. She earned her BSE and MEd from SAU and later completed her EdS and EdD in educational leadership from Liberty University. She also holds National Board Certification in Teaching.
Her 34-year career in education includes 23 years in K–12 before returning to SAU as faculty. She previously served as chair of the Department of Doctoral Studies and director of the EdD program in Rural and Diverse Educational Leadership.
Dr. Stanford remains active in professional organizations and has served in leadership roles within the Arkansas Science Teachers Association.
She lives in Magnolia with her husband Danny and enjoys running the Farm Road, gardening, and hiking in national parks.
