December 18, 2014

A historian and musician with Amarillo roots and vast experience in higher education administration has been selected to become the next vice president of academic affairs (VPAA) at Amarillo College.

The appointment of Dr. Deborah Vess, most recently vice president for academic affairs at Rivier University in Nashua, N.H., is effective Jan. 12, pending approval of the Amarillo College Board of Regents.

Vess is a native Amarilloan. She holds a Ph.D. in European history from the University of North Texas, a master’s degree in philosophy from the University of Pittsburgh, and a pair of bachelor’s degrees—in music (piano performance) from Pennsylvania State University, and in philosophy from Indiana University.

Prior to joining Rivier University, Vess served as associate provost for undergraduate studies and academic programs at the College of Staten Island, N.Y., 2011-2013. Previous to that, she served as special assistant to the provost at Georgia College & State University, 1997-2011.

“We searched the country for the best candidate and found her,” Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart, president of Amarillo College, said. “She was born and raised in Amarillo and brings a wealth of experiences with her as she moves back home.

“I am honored to begin this journey with Dr. Vess. She is a strong, quiet leader with a clear understanding of our AC students and the No Excuses philosophy, and she has the skill-set to help effectively bring it all together.”

Vess says she is honored by the opportunity to serve AC and looks forward to being a champion for student success.

“It is more important than ever to address the changing needs of an increasingly diverse student population and to foster student success through a broad array of learner-centered initiatives,” Vess said.

“Amarillo College has made great progress in this area and has emerged as a national leader. I look forward to collaborating with the faculty, staff and administration as we continue to enhance our efforts to promote student success.”

Vess, in essence, succeeds Lowery-Hart as AC’s vice president of academic affairs; he held that position for four years before being named AC president in September. Jerry Moller, a longtime dean at AC, has filled the post on an interim basis since Lowery-Hart became president.

Moller, who is looking forward to retirement, will remain with the college “for a short period to help facilitate the transition and provide the strongest foundation possible for Dr. Vess’ tenure as VPAA,” Lowery-Hart said.