Henderson State Athletics Announces Staff Restructure

ARKADELPHIA, Ark. – Henderson State University has announced a staff restructuring within its athletic department.

George Brooks, formerly Athletic Academic Advisor, will now serve Henderson as Assistant Athletic Director for External Operations, while Blake Smith, formerly Director of Athletic Communications, will now be Assistant Athletic Director for Communications and Sports Information.

"George and Blake have worked hard together over the last academic year to help raise the standard of Henderson State athletics. I appreciate their work ethic and willingness to show up and do whatever is necessary, and I look forward to them continuing to serve in these new roles as we push the Reddie brand forward," Director of Athletics Seth Dutton said.

In two years as academic advisor, Brooks advised all Henderson student-athletes while managing the Cabe Student-Athlete Success Center, which was used by all students for study hall and meeting purposes. HSU students continued their academic success, including extending a streak to 18 consecutive semesters with a GPA of at least 3.0. More than 20 student-athletes have been named to College Sports Communicators Academic All-District honors, while Reddie men's basketball received the NABC Academic Excellence Award. Brooks also served as game day administrator for Reddie football in the fall of 2025.

"Henderson State is a special place. I am so fortunate to be a part of what we have going here in Athletics. I look forward to the new opportunity to serve our Student-Athletes in a new role. I want to thank both Seth and Dr. Berry for this opportunity. I can't wait to see what the future of Reddie Athletics holds."

Smith began his full-time tenure with Henderson just over a year ago after serving as the Voice of the Reddies for four seasons. Since taking over as Director of Athletic Communications, Smith has hired Dylan Connolly to take his place as the play-by-play announcer for Henderson athletics, as well as served as the primary media contact for football, men's basketball, baseball, cross country, and men's and women's golf. He also serves on the NCBWA regional voting committee and as secondary media contact for all other HSU sports.

"I am grateful to Seth and Dr. Berry for their support of me over the past year, as well as their trust in me to continue helping our student-athletes and coaches with anything they need to succeed," Smith said. "Henderson is my home, and I'm excited for the years ahead. Go Reddies!"

Henderson State will immediately begin a national search for the next Director of Academic Advising for Reddie Athletics.

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