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 financial resources, fostering key partnerships, and driving institutional growth. By implementing innovative strategies, Hays ensures Amarillo College maintains its commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education. The General Manager & Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to stakeholder relations, representing the college to governmental bodies, industry leaders, and the broader public. Christy Hays guides the college's expansion and adaptation to evolving educational landscapes, solidifying its position as a vital community resource.

Tracy Dougherty, the Chief Operating Officer at Amarillo College, oversees the day-to-day operational functions that support the college's educational mission. Dougherty directs campus facilities management, student services, and administrative support systems, ensuring efficient resource allocation and service delivery. This leadership position involves optimizing operational workflows to enhance student success and faculty support. By streamlining processes, Tracy Dougherty contributes to the college's ability to provide accessible and effective educational programs. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include managing departmental budgets, implementing operational policies, and ensuring compliance with institutional standards. Tracy Dougherty drives operational excellence across Amarillo College, reinforcing its commitment to community service and academic achievement.

Jamelle Conner, the President at Amarillo College, leads the institution with a focus on academic excellence and student success. Conner directs the strategic vision for educational programs, fostering an environment conducive to learning and innovation. This executive role involves overseeing faculty development, curriculum enhancement, and the overall student experience. By championing educational initiatives, Jamelle Conner ensures Amarillo College remains at the forefront of community college offerings. The President's responsibilities include engaging with community leaders, securing funding, and advocating for the college's needs. Jamelle Conner drives the institution's commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education that prepares students for future careers and further studies.

Paul Matney, the President at Amarillo College, guides the institution's strategic direction and operational effectiveness. Matney oversees the implementation of academic policies and administrative procedures designed to enhance student learning outcomes. This leadership position involves fostering a collaborative environment among faculty, staff, and students to achieve institutional goals. By focusing on continuous improvement, Paul Matney ensures Amarillo College adapts to the evolving needs of its student population and the broader community. The President's duties encompass strategic planning, resource management, and external relations, representing the college's interests. Paul Matney drives the college's mission to provide accessible and impactful educational opportunities.

Denese Skinner, the Interim President at Amarillo College, provides critical leadership during a transitional period, ensuring continuity of operations and strategic focus. Skinner oversees all college functions, maintaining momentum on key initiatives and supporting the academic community. This role involves guiding faculty and staff, managing institutional resources, and upholding the college's commitment to its students. By providing stable leadership, Denese Skinner ensures that Amarillo College continues to deliver on its promise of accessible education. The Interim President's responsibilities include fostering a positive campus environment and representing the college effectively. Denese Skinner's tenure ensures that the college remains dedicated to its educational mission.

Russell Lowery-Hart, the President at Amarillo College, spearheads the institution's vision for academic innovation and community impact. Lowery-Hart directs strategic planning efforts, focusing on expanding access to higher education and enhancing student support services. This executive role involves cultivating partnerships with local industries and community organizations to create pathways for student success. By promoting a culture of collaboration, Russell Lowery-Hart ensures Amarillo College effectively serves its diverse student body. The President's responsibilities include overseeing budget allocations, driving enrollment growth, and championing the college's mission. Russell Lowery-Hart leads Amarillo College with a commitment to empowering students through transformative educational experiences.

Shane Hepler, the Chief Information Officer at Amarillo College, architects and manages the institution's comprehensive technology infrastructure. Hepler directs all information technology operations, ensuring robust cybersecurity measures and seamless digital learning environments. This critical role involves overseeing the implementation of new technologies that support academic programs and administrative functions. By optimizing IT resources, Shane Hepler enhances operational efficiency and data security across the college. The Chief Information Officer's purview includes managing the IT department's budget, leading technology planning initiatives, and ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations. Shane Hepler drives technological innovation to support Amarillo College's mission of accessible education.

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 ITS department. This role involves preparing reports, organizing documentation, and facilitating communication between the CIO and other college stakeholders. By maintaining organized records and efficient workflows, Ellen Patterson directly supports the Chief Information Officer's technology initiatives. The Executive Secretary's duties are crucial for the effective operation of the IT division, enabling the CIO to focus on strategic technology planning and implementation. Ellen Patterson ensures critical administrative tasks are executed with precision.

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 impactful representation of the college. This leadership role involves developing communication plans that support institutional goals and enhance community engagement. By crafting compelling narratives, Ellen Green amplifies Amarillo College's mission and achievements. The Chief Communications Officer's responsibilities include managing the college's website, social media presence, and marketing campaigns. Ellen Green ensures clear, effective communication across all platforms, strengthening the college's connection with students, faculty, and the wider public.