Sam Houston State University announced on March 26 the unveiling of The Jim P. Ferris Family Ring Plaza, featuring a nine-foot-tall replica of an SHSU ring. The new plaza was made possible by support from alumni and is intended to enhance one of the university’s longstanding traditions.
The creation of the plaza aims to make the ring tradition more accessible to students and highlights the role philanthropy plays in supporting student achievement. “This plaza expands access to a tradition that matters deeply to our students through this physical reminder as well as sponsorships that will provide more students with the opportunity to participate in the program and live out that moment of accomplishment alongside their peers,” Matthew Bethea, vice president of University Advancement, said. “That is where philanthropy makes a long-lasting difference, by creating opportunities, opening doors and supporting students as they work towards graduation.”
James “Jim” Paul Ferris graduated from Sam Houston State in 1969 and has maintained strong ties with his alma mater over several decades. He began his career as a high school teacher before advancing at Wismer Distributing in Baytown, Texas, eventually leading significant growth at the company. Ferris has been recognized for his community contributions and ongoing support for SHSU through various honors including being named a Distinguished Alumnus in 2011.
Ferris’s family also shares connections with SHSU: his daughter Danielle was a cheerleader who graduated Cum Laude in 2018, while his son James Paul Ferris II graduated in 2021. Reflecting on his experience at Sam Houston State, Ferris said: “Every door that I have ever knocked on since I was in high school, Sam Houston has opened up that door for me… Thank you, Sam Houston. It’s been a wonderful ride and you were the vehicle and I know that I could never repay you for what you’ve done for me.”
The replica ring is among the largest on any college campus and features symbolic engravings such as Austin Hall on one side and Sam Houston’s portrait with ’03 marking when the ring program began. A unique feature includes “Honor” etched inside—echoing an inscription given by Sam Houston’s mother before he entered war.
University President Alisa White said: “The Ring Plaza creates a meaningful space for students to gather… It is where students will come together to celebrate their academic milestones at Sam, capture memories at commencement and where alumni can return to reconnect in a place that reflects the pride of their experience.”
Graduates who did not receive their rings during their studies are invited back to participate in future ceremonies alongside current students.
The new monument stands as both an emblem of Bearkat pride and encouragement toward future accomplishments.
