Guenther assumes leadership at SMA

Dr. Brian N. Guenther, who was named president of San Marcos Academy by the Board of Trustees in July,  assumed  his duties on Aug. 1.

Guenther succeeded Jimmie W. Scott, who retired as president and has moved into a new role as President Emeritus. Scott will assist with the transition of the new president while working in the Development Office through the end of this year.

In announcing the change in leadership, Dr. Clay Sullivan, chairman of the Academy Board of Trustees, described Dr. Guenther as one who “has a definite love for and a calling to the Academy and its future.”  

“After a prayerful interview process, the Board of Trustees has selected a man that many in the San Marcos community already know and respect,” Dr. Sullivan said. “Dr. Guenther is incredibly well prepared to lead students and staff, and we are very confident in him as our new leader.” 

Liam Burke, Chloe Crawford, RJ Ibidapo, Mason Groves, Kendall Opiela and Cherry Vasquez, all Academy middle schoolers, engage in a trust-building exercise.

Guenther was named interim academic dean at the Academy in May 2018, after having served three years as associate academic dean for the SMA Lower and Middle schools. Prior to joining the Academy staff, he worked at the Master’s School of San Marcos, serving eight years as head of school and three years as music teacher and chaplain. He was also a teaching pastor for River Stone Community Church in San Marcos from 2004 to 2011 and served five years as a youth and worship pastor at First Baptist Church in Kingsland, Texas.

A certified superintendent, principal and teacher, Dr. Guenther received his Ed.D. Degree in Education, Educational Leadership and Administration from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor (UMHB). 

He also holds a Master of Arts in Christian Higher Education Administration from Dallas Theological Seminary and a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from UMHB.