Amarillo College Executive and Leadership Team

Christy Hays, the General Manager & Chief Executive Officer at Amarillo College, directs the institution's overall strategic vision and operational execution. Hays oversees all facets of college administration, ensuring alignment with educational objectives and community needs. This leadership role involves managing fiscal resources, fostering external partnerships, and driving institutional growth. Hays's strategic direction ensures Amarillo College effectively delivers its mission of providing accessible, high-quality education. The General Manager & Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to championing innovation in academic programming and student support services. By guiding departmental initiatives, Christy Hays ensures the college remains responsive to evolving educational landscapes and workforce demands, solidifying its position as a vital community resource.

Tracy Dougherty, the Chief Operating Officer at Amarillo College, manages the day-to-day operational activities and ensures efficient resource allocation. Dougherty oversees key administrative functions, including facilities management, campus services, and operational logistics, supporting the college's educational mission. This executive role involves optimizing processes to enhance student experience and faculty support. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include implementing strategic operational plans and ensuring compliance with institutional policies. Tracy Dougherty drives initiatives focused on campus safety, infrastructure development, and the effective utilization of physical and human resources. By streamlining operations, Dougherty contributes directly to the college's ability to provide a conducive learning environment and maintain its commitment to community service.

Paul Matney, the President at Amarillo College, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Matney guides the college's academic mission, fiscal health, and community engagement, ensuring its continued growth and relevance. This pivotal role involves fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and inclusivity across all departments. The President's responsibilities encompass representing Amarillo College to external constituencies, including government officials, industry partners, and the public. Paul Matney champions initiatives that enhance student success, faculty development, and institutional advancement. By setting the vision and leading the executive team, Matney ensures Amarillo College effectively fulfills its commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education and serving the needs of the Amarillo community.

Denese Skinner, the Interim President at Amarillo College, provides essential leadership during a transitional period, ensuring continuity of operations and strategic focus. Skinner oversees the college's administrative and academic functions, maintaining momentum on key initiatives and supporting the ongoing mission of accessible education. This leadership role involves guiding the executive team and collaborating with stakeholders to uphold institutional standards. The Interim President's responsibilities include managing college affairs with diligence and foresight, ensuring that student success and educational quality remain paramount. Denese Skinner's temporary leadership ensures that Amarillo College continues to serve its community effectively while preparing for permanent leadership, maintaining stability and progress.

Shane Hepler, the Chief Information Officer at Amarillo College, architects and executes the institution's comprehensive technology strategy. Hepler directs all information technology infrastructure, ensuring robust and secure systems that support academic and administrative functions. This leadership position involves overseeing network operations, data management, and the implementation of innovative digital solutions. The Chief Information Officer's focus is on enhancing educational delivery through technology and improving operational efficiency across departments. Shane Hepler drives initiatives related to cybersecurity, digital learning platforms, and IT support services. By managing technological resources, Hepler ensures that students and faculty have access to reliable and advanced tools, facilitating a modern learning environment and supporting the college's educational mission.

Ellen Patterson, the Executive Secretary To Chief Information Officer of ITS at Amarillo College, provides critical administrative support to the Chief Information Officer. Patterson manages complex scheduling, coordinates meetings, and handles confidential information, ensuring the smooth functioning of the ITS department. This role involves facilitating communication between the CIO and other college stakeholders, managing correspondence, and preparing essential documents. The Executive Secretary To Chief Information Officer of ITS's support is vital for the efficient execution of technology initiatives. Ellen Patterson plays a key part in maintaining organizational flow within the IT division, ensuring that administrative tasks are handled with precision and efficiency, thereby enabling the CIO to focus on strategic technology leadership.

Ellen Green, the Chief Communications Officer at Amarillo College, directs the institution's comprehensive communication strategies and public relations efforts. Green oversees all internal and external messaging, brand management, and media relations, ensuring consistent and effective communication of the college's mission and achievements. This leadership position involves developing and implementing communication plans that support institutional goals and enhance community engagement. The Chief Communications Officer's responsibilities include managing digital communications, marketing initiatives, and crisis communication protocols. Ellen Green drives efforts to build and maintain a strong public image for Amarillo College, fostering positive relationships with students, faculty, alumni, and the wider community, thereby amplifying the college's impact.