SMU Today // February 2026

2026 Stampede & Move-in Dates Set

As previously announced by President Jay Hartzell and Executive Vice President and Provost Rachel Davis Mersey, this fall, SMU is welcoming incoming students earlier to strengthen the start of the Mustang experience. Move-in is August 14–15, followed by Stampede, August 16–23.

There are many ways for faculty and staff to get involved. From greeting families and supporting events your participation helps deliver an exceptional experience for our students and their families on day one. Submit your interest to volunteer.

Campus partners are invited to submit proposals for Move-In Day workshops or host a Stampede program designed to foster connection, belonging, and readiness for college life. The priority deadline for program proposals is March 12.

SUBMIT PROPOSAL

What to know today

Michael Harris appointed dean of Simmons: Harris brings clear direction and a forward-looking vision that strengthens the integration of teaching, research and community impact.

New leader chosen for DEA: Shontel Grumhaus has been named senior vice president for Development and External Affairs. An accomplished advancement leader with 18 years of experience, she most recently held a senior fundraising role at UNC-Chapel Hill.

Football legend to deliver May Commencement remarks: Eric Dickerson, former SMU running back and Pro Football Hall of Famer, will be the featured speaker at SMU’s May Commencement Convocation.

Transformative gift to support student-athletes: Mustang Partners announced $50 million in gifts to support SMU student-athletes, launching the Boulevard Society and advancing scholarships, NIL and revenue sharing.

A new way to submit your wins: Help us celebrate the incredible work happening across SMU. Submit exciting wins or standout stories from your school, college, or department, and they could be featured in various University channels, including SMU Today.

Around the Hilltop

Academic Excellence and Research

Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences Professor Johan Elverskog received the Joseph Levenson Prize from the Association for Asian Studies for his book, A Uyghur History of Buddhism.
Research & Innovation Week, March 23–27, will highlight discoveries by students, scholars and faculty across disciplines. Programming is hosted by the Moody School of Graduate and Advanced Studies and the Offices of Engaged Learning, and Research & Innovation.
The Cox School of Business rose five spots to 25^th nationally in Fortune’s 2026 “Best Business Schools and MBA Programs.” The ranking is driven largely by salary and employment outcomes for the Class of 2024.
In a move strengthening a partnership spanning more than 50 years, the national office of the Association of Graduate Liberal Studies Programs has moved to SMU’s Simmons School of Education and Human Development.

Arts, Culture and Scholarship

Professors Michelle N. Gibson and Alvon Reed at Meadows School of the Arts presented and taught at the International Conference and Festival of Blacks in Dance, “From Soul to Sole,” leading workshops and discussions on lineage, rhythm, ritual and cultural expression.
Lyle School of Engineering is partnering with the Meadows Museum and UT Dallas to apply advanced 3D scanning and printing to a tenth-century Islamic marble capital, advancing research, preservation and accessibility.

Innovation, People and Community Impact

Perkins School of Theology’s Rev. Alyce M. McKenzie received the Academy of Homiletics’ Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring a career that significantly contributed to preaching and theological education.
The Texas Business Court, First Division, will relocate to SMU’s Expressway Tower, deepening its partnership with the Dedman School of Law while expanding student exposure to complex business litigation.

Community Notes

RoundUp seeks faculty and staff mentors
The three-day extended orientation program is recruiting volunteers for June and July. Apply to help welcome the next class of Mustangs.

Honoring excellence, reimagined
Academic Ceremonies is launching Stole & Stroll: An Honors Celebration. This new invitation-only event recognizes graduating students’ academic excellence.

SMU Giving Day is March 11
Mustangs are invited to support the students, scholarships, research and programs that define the Hilltop. Join the effort on SMU Giving Day and make your impact count.

SMU transition to Windows Intune
OIT is modernizing device management by transitioning Windows computers to Microsoft Intune, improving security, software access, and support with minimal disruption.

Founders’ Day is April 9-13
This vibrant celebration honoring the University’s beginnings brings together the SMU community for a weekend of connection, tradition, and Mustang pride.

Bexa Health screenings return in March
SMU is partnering with Bexa to offer faculty and staff the opportunity to receive a breast cancer screening on campus at no cost to you.

SMU in the News

Dallas Morning News: An in-depth look at the $50 million gift from four families to support SMU athletes.

Voices of Leadership: President Hartzell appeared on the first 2026 podcast episode to discuss SMU’s future, higher education and advice for emerging leaders.

KRLD 1080: President Hartzell sat down with business analyst David Johnson on the CEO Spotlight podcast to discuss SMU's future.

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