Amarillo College Executive and Leadership Team

Christy Hays, the General Manager & Chief Executive Officer at Amarillo College, directs the institution's overall strategic direction and operational execution. Overseeing all facets of the college's business functions, Hays ensures alignment with its educational mission and community impact. This leadership role involves managing resources effectively to support academic programs and student success initiatives. By driving efficiency across departments, Christy Hays directly contributes to the college's financial health and long-term sustainability. The General Manager & Chief Executive Officer role demands a comprehensive understanding of educational administration and strategic planning to navigate the evolving landscape of higher education. Hays's oversight extends to fostering key partnerships and ensuring the college remains a vital resource for the Amarillo region. This executive leadership ensures the institution meets its objectives for student development and community engagement.

Tracy Dougherty, the Chief Operating Officer at Amarillo College, manages the day-to-day operational activities that support the college's academic and administrative functions. Dougherty oversees the efficient delivery of services across various departments, ensuring seamless operations for students, faculty, and staff. This critical role involves optimizing resource allocation and implementing best practices to enhance institutional effectiveness. By streamlining processes and improving operational workflows, Tracy Dougherty directly supports the college's mission of providing accessible education. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include overseeing facilities management, campus safety, and auxiliary services, all vital to the student experience. Dougherty's leadership ensures that the college's infrastructure effectively supports its educational goals and strategic initiatives. This executive ensures operational excellence across the entire campus.

Denese Skinner, the Interim President at Amarillo College, provides temporary executive leadership, guiding the institution through a transitional period. Skinner oversees strategic decision-making and ensures continuity in academic and operational functions during this phase. This leadership role is critical for maintaining stability and momentum towards the college's long-term goals. By offering experienced guidance, Denese Skinner directly supports the ongoing mission and operational integrity of Amarillo College. The Interim President's responsibilities encompass representing the college, managing key stakeholder relationships, and ensuring that critical initiatives continue without disruption. Skinner's leadership ensures that the college remains focused on its commitment to student success and community service. This executive's temporary tenure provides essential stability.

Jamelle Conner, the President at Amarillo College, leads the institution with a vision for academic excellence and student achievement. Conner directs strategic planning, fosters a culture of innovation, and champions the college's mission within the community and beyond. This executive role is central to shaping the future of higher education at Amarillo College. By driving forward key initiatives, Jamelle Conner directly enhances the educational opportunities and support services available to students. The President's responsibilities include overseeing all academic and administrative divisions, engaging with the Board of Trustees, and representing the college in public forums. Conner's leadership ensures that Amarillo College remains a responsive and effective educational institution. This executive guides the college's overall trajectory and impact.

Russell Lowery-Hart, the President at Amarillo College, spearheads the institution's strategic vision and operational leadership. Lowery-Hart drives initiatives focused on student success, community engagement, and academic innovation, ensuring the college meets evolving educational needs. This executive position is fundamental to the college's growth and impact. By advancing key programs and fostering collaborative environments, Russell Lowery-Hart directly contributes to the college's mission of providing accessible, high-quality education. The President's duties involve overseeing institutional effectiveness, managing external relations, and guiding the development of new academic offerings. Lowery-Hart's leadership ensures that Amarillo College continues to serve as a vital educational resource for the region. This executive cultivates a forward-thinking approach to higher education.

Shane Hepler, the Chief Information Officer at Amarillo College, architects and directs the institution's technology strategy and infrastructure. Hepler oversees all aspects of information technology, including network operations, data management, and cybersecurity, ensuring robust and secure systems. This leadership position is crucial for supporting modern educational delivery and administrative efficiency. By implementing innovative technological solutions, Shane Hepler directly enhances the learning environment and operational capabilities of the college. The Chief Information Officer's purview includes managing IT budgets, leading technology teams, and driving digital transformation initiatives. Hepler's strategic vision ensures that Amarillo College leverages technology effectively to meet its academic and operational objectives. This executive champions technological advancement across the institution.

Ellen Patterson, the Executive Secretary To Chief Information Officer of ITS at Amarillo College, provides essential administrative and logistical support to the Chief Information Officer. Patterson manages complex scheduling, coordinates meetings, and handles confidential communications, ensuring the smooth functioning of the IT department. This role is vital for maintaining organizational efficiency and facilitating the CIO's strategic initiatives. By managing critical administrative tasks, Ellen Patterson directly enables the Chief Information Officer to focus on technology leadership and innovation. The Executive Secretary's responsibilities include preparing reports, organizing travel, and serving as a key point of contact for internal and external stakeholders. Patterson's diligent support ensures that the ITS department operates effectively and cohesively. This executive's role is foundational to the IT leadership's success.