Hayley/Deats Distinguished Alumni Endowed Scholarship

Jimmy Hayley and Ernie Deats, both proud Sam Houston State University alumni and lifelong residents of Galveston County, dedicated their lives to public service and community betterment. Hayley, a 1959 SHSU graduate, served as president and CEO of the Texas City – La Marque Chamber of Commerce and held numerous civic roles, including trustee of the La Marque ISD and appointee to the Texas State University System Board of Regents. His advocacy led to major developments at SHSU and earned him multiple honors, including SHSU Distinguished Alumni. Deats, a 1962 SHSU graduate, transitioned from teaching to ranching and business in Dickinson, all while passionately supporting Dickinson ISD through philanthropy, book proceeds, and foundation leadership. His lifelong efforts in education, local history, and preservation earned him numerous accolades, culminating in the 2024 SHSU Distinguished Alumni Service Award