Sul Ross State University (SRSU) has introduced 13 new faculty members for the fall semester, expanding its educational offerings across various departments, including Mathematics, Criminal Justice, Education, Music, Natural Resource Management, Nursing, and Business.
“We are excited to welcome a new cohort of faculty as we continue to grow existing programs and create new ones. SRSU’s mission is to educate our students, prepare them for competitive careers and transform them into lifelong learners,” said Executive Vice President and Provost Bernie Cantens. “Recruiting and maintaining talented faculty is one of our strategic plan priorities that we will continue to pursue.”
Among the new faculty members is Mohammad Shah Alam, Ph.D., who joins as a visiting professor of Mathematics. Alam holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Mathematics from Jahangirnagar University in Bangladesh and a doctorate from the University of Texas. His experience includes teaching at institutions such as the Bangladesh University of Business and Technology and the University of Houston.
Elba Lamar, now a lecturer of Mathematics, earned her master’s degree in Applied Sciences from the Institute of Research of Optical Communications and a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from the Autonomous University, both in San Luis Potosi, Mexico. Previously an adjunct professor at SRSU, Lamar has also taught in school districts within Fort Davis and Marfa.
Ercan Balcioglu, Ph.D., takes on the role of assistant professor of Criminal Justice and Homeland Security. With a background in Sociology from Mersin University in Turkey and a doctorate from Turkish National Police University, he has researched and taught at various institutions, including the Berlin School of Economics and Law in Germany.
The Education department welcomes Nehal Elramly, Ph.D., and Angelica Gomez, Ed.D., as assistant professors. Elramly has degrees from the University of Texas at Dallas, the University of North Texas, and Texas Women’s University. Gomez earned her bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees from the University of Phoenix, with a focus on English Language Learners and Educational Leadership.
Hector Leija, Ed.D., joins the Education department as an assistant professor. An SRSU alumnus, Leija holds a doctorate from Abilene Christian University. He previously worked in educational roles at C.C. Winn High School in Eagle Pass and Eagle Pass Junior High.
In the Music department, Milton Crotts, Ph.D., becomes an associate professor. He brings a rich background in music education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and the University of South Carolina at Columbia. Crotts has led ensembles at institutions such as the University of Guam and Davidson College.
Kelbi Delaune, Ph.D., joins the Natural Resources Management program as an assistant professor. She holds degrees from Sam Houston State University and Texas Tech University, where she completed her doctorate in Wildlife, Aquatic and Wildlands Science Management.
Eduardo Gonzalez-Valenzuela, Ph.D., a visiting professor in Natural Resources Management, brings decades of research experience from institutions in Mexico and the United States. His academic background includes a doctorate from Texas A&M University.
In the Nursing department, Sarah Shellenberger and Veronica Arredondo, Ph.D., join as a lecturer and an assistant professor, respectively. Shellenberger holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Texas Tech University and a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Phoenix. Arredondo earned her degrees from Angelo State University, Grand Canyon University, and Arkansas State University.
Sumantra Sengupta, Ph.D., is the Founding Dean of the new Rio Grande College of Business. He has a background in Applied Mathematics and Business Administration, having transitioned to higher education after a 24-year career in the private sector.
Lastly, Candice Ward, Ph.D., joins as a visiting professor of Program Development, Management, and Advanced Accreditation. With a doctorate in Psychology from Grand Canyon University, Ward brings experience from previous roles at El Paso Community College and City University of Seattle.
These new additions reflect SRSU’s commitment to enhancing its academic programs and supporting its mission to educate and prepare students for successful careers.
