Harry F. Estill was the fifth president of Sam Houston State University (1908-1937), the longest serving president of the university. Estill was a graduate of Sam Houston Normal Institute's first class in 1880, and later, at age 22, succeeded his father, Charles P. Estill, teaching Latin and English. After serving other administrative roles, Estill served as president for 29 years. He authored early United States history texts for public-school students in southern states. As president he introduced new programs of study, extracurricular activities, campus publications, and student and alumni organizations; upgraded faculty numbers and preparations; and obtained professional academic accreditation for the school. Upon his retirement he was honored with the title president emeritus. The college's second library, built in 1929, was named in his honor.

Harry F. Estill was the fifth president of Sam Houston State University (1908-1937), the longest serving president of the university. Estill was a graduate of Sam Houston Normal Institute's first class in 1880, and later, at age 22, succeeded his father, Charles P. Estill, teaching Latin and English. After serving other administrative roles, Estill served as president for 29 years. He authored early United States history texts for public-school students in southern states. As president he introduced new programs of study, extracurricular activities, campus publications, and student and alumni organizations; upgraded faculty numbers and preparations; and obtained professional academic accreditation for the school. Upon his retirement he was honored with the title president emeritus. The college's second library, built in 1929, was named in his honor.