Story by PAULA JIMENEZ

Stephen F. Austin State University reached a significant milestone on Wednesday with progress on the new Arthur Temple College of Forestry and Agriculture building.

A white beam, signed by students, faculty, and workers, and adorned with an SFA flag and a loblolly pine, was lifted to the top of the structure at 419 East College St. This marked the placement of the final structural beam in the construction process.

Dr. Neal Weaver, president of the university, expressed appreciation for the efforts behind the project and the enthusiasm shown by students, faculty, and staff who attended the ceremony.

“We appreciate so much the work that’s gone in to making this building, a special, new exciting part of the campus, and I’m so excited to see so many of the students, the faculty, and the staff who bring this building to life want to be a part of it today,” said Dr. Neal Weaver, president of the University.

Approximately 100 people gathered to add their signatures, messages, and drawings to the beam. According to John Branch, associate vice president of facilities services at SFA, these elements are part of the “topping out ceremony,” a tradition originating in Scandinavia in the 700s. Branch explained that the practice was meant to bring prosperity and luck, as well as to honor the construction team’s work.

Construction on the $90 million project began in fall 2024, following approval by the University of Texas System Board of Regents in August 2023. After the demolition of the previous building, forestry students and staff were relocated to temporary spaces across campus. Branch noted that classes and offices have been held in various locations until the new building is ready.

The new facility is expected to be completed in spring 2027. SFA’s forestry program, which began in 1946 and earned accreditation in 1966, is recognized as one of the nation’s top programs in the field.

Additionally, construction of the Greg Arnold Center for Entrepreneurship began last summer after its approval by regents in 2023. The new center is being built adjacent to the new forestry college.

Courtesy photos Stephen F. Austin