Hardin-Simmons University Announces Key Leadership Appointments

Hardin-Simmons University is proud to announce the appointments of a new vice president for accreditation and a new associate provost, two vital leadership roles that will advance the university’s commitment to academic excellence and its faith-driven mission by maintaining compliance and supporting academic policy.

Billy Adams, Ed.D., has been named vice president for accreditation, bringing a wealth of experience in higher education leadership and a deep understanding of accreditation processes. In addition, Kristi Terbush, who currently serves as the Title III program director, will expand her responsibilities to include the role of associate provost.

“These appointments reflect HSU’s ongoing commitment to our mission and to the success of both current and future Cowboys and Cowgirls,” said Chris McNair, provost and vice president for academic affairs. “I’m confident that the combined expertise of Dr. Adams and Mrs. Terbush will help guide our university into an exciting new chapter.”

Dr. Billy Adams brings more than two decades of leadership in higher education to his new role, with extensive experience as vice president of instruction at both Panola College and Ranger College. At Panola, he led strategic initiatives across academic, workforce, health sciences, and distance learning divisions; expanded dual credit partnerships; secured more than $1.2 million in grant funding; and guided a successful Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) reaffirmation. He also chaired the college’s strategic planning and compliance efforts while serving on multiple accreditation committees. A recognized leader in the Texas Guided Pathways initiative and a member of the American Association of Community Colleges’ Commission on Small and Rural Colleges, Adams is deeply committed to student success, innovation, and institutional excellence.

Kristi Terbush brings experience in strategic leadership, grant administration, and student success programming to her expanded role as associate provost at HSU. As the university’s Title III program director, she currently oversees a $2 million federal grant aimed at increasing academic achievement and retention among first-generation and underprepared students. With a 15-year background in mental health program administration and a proven ability to lead high-performing teams, Terbush has consistently delivered impactful results across sectors. Her leadership is grounded in data-driven decision-making, cross-campus collaboration, and a deep commitment to serving diverse and underserved communities.

These appointments follow the upcoming retirement of Michael Monhollon, J.D., who has faithfully served the university in multiple roles over a 27-year career at HSU. He will retire on May 31. Both Adams and Terbush began their new roles in April.