AC Names Crandall Dean of Liberal and Creative Arts and Education

Amarillo College has named Stephen Crandall, professor and former department chair of art, theatre, and dance at West Texas A&M University, as the Amarillo College Dean of Liberal Arts.

Following a comprehensive interview process, the hiring committee—comprised of Dr. Frank Sobey, Becky Burton, Edie Carter, Dr. Chris Hudson, and Bob Austin—unanimously selected Crandall.

“Stephen’s enthusiasm for Amarillo College, his heart for students, and his strong commitment to the arts and humanities truly set him apart,” said Dr. Frank Sobey, vice president of Academic Affairs. “Now more than ever, these disciplines need champions who can advocate for their intrinsic value and foundational role in society. I am confident Stephen will carry this mission forward with excellence.”

Crandall brings extensive experience in higher education leadership and instruction, and his return to Amarillo College is especially meaningful.

“I am thrilled to join the team at Amarillo College,” Crandall said. “I feel lucky to return to the institution where I began my own journey in higher education nearly 30 years ago. AC is a very important part of the Panhandle community, and I greatly value the learning opportunities that it fosters for the people of Amarillo and beyond. I am excited to get to know and work with the Liberal Arts, Creative Arts, and Education faculty and staff, and to support the students studying in these programs. I appreciate the trust and leadership within Academic Affairs, and I am looking forward to once again considering myself an AC Badger.”

Crandall, who will replace Becky Easton will be concluding her service after a distinguished tenure marked by a passion for teaching and the arts, will begin his work with AC later this month. 

“Becky Easton has been an exceptional leader and colleague, and she will be deeply missed,” Sobey said. “At the same time, I am confident Stephen will excel in this role and give our faculty, staff, and students every reason to be proud of the important work they do for the college and the community.”