Texas State University System announces lone finalist after six-month search for university president

The Texas State University System announced March 31 that Kelly R. Damphousse has been selected as the sole finalist for the Texas State University presidential seat that is set to be vacated May 31 after sitting president Denise M. Trauth retires.

Damphousse serves as the chancellor and CEO of Arkansas State University and has been named after a six-month search, according to a press release from the TSUS.

The newly selected finalist previously served as associate dean, interim dean and dean of the college of arts and sciences at the University of Oklahoma. He also served as the faculty athletics representative for UO.

“Dr. Damphousse is a respected university and community leader who possesses the knowledge, experience and passion to lead Texas State to new levels of achievement and success,” TSUS Chancellor Brian McCall said. “I sincerely thank the advisory search committee—including TSUS regents Don Flores, Charlie Amato, Garry Crain and Nikki Harle—for their time, energy and deliberation during the search process.”

If confirmed, Damphousse will be the 10th president at TSU, succeeding Trauth and her 20 years of service to the university.

“As a first-generation college student, I am humbled to be considered for the presidency of such an accomplished university, strategically located in the middle of the Texas Innovation Corridor and primed to become a Tier 1 research university,” Damphousse said in the release. “To be able to build on the tremendous trajectory that President Trauth has established would be a great honor. My wife, Beth, and I are excited about the possibility of returning home to Texas and the opportunity to serve the faculty, staff, students, alumni and friends of Texas State University.”