Dr. Linda Gary has been named dean of the Tyler Junior College School of Humanities, Communications and Fine Arts, TJC officials have announced. Her appointment is effective immediately.
She previously served the institution as humanities and philosophy department chair and English professor.
“Dr. Gary is highly respected as an educator, leader and administrator,” said Dr. Juan Mejia, TJC provost and vice president for academic and student affairs, “so, it is with great celebration that we announce her appointment as dean.”
The TJC School of Humanities, Communications and Fine Arts includes the programs of art, communications, dance, English, foreign languages, general studies, history, humanities, music, philosophy, speech and theatre/musical theatre.
As dean, Gary reports directly to the provost and vice president for academic and student success and is a key position in the TJC Academic and Student Affairs Council. In addition, the dean represents the school at key meetings and events throughout the community.
Mejia said, “This school has a long-standing history of programs that promote the skills and knowledge required to meet the needs of today’s society and workplace. The faculty and staff from the school are committed to academic excellence, leading to student and community success.”
Dr. Gary was selected following a national search, a thorough committee-review process, and extensive meetings with the college community.
Mejia said, “I am grateful to the search committee for their detailed work and careful deliberation. I value the leadership style of Dr. Gary and her successful leadership with the award-winning Bell Tower Arts Journal, the community-engaging TJC Arts Festival, and her ongoing work to promote student persistence and success.
“I believe she will be a vital member of the leadership team, and I truly look forward to working with her to better serve our communities.”
Mejia also extended his thanks to Dr. Kenneth Murphy, TJC dean of the School of Engineering, Math, and Sciences, who served as interim dean for the School of Humanities, Communications and Fine Arts through the search process.
Dr. Gary is a graduate of El Centro College and holds baccalaureate, master’s and doctoral degrees from The University of Texas at Dallas. She has received numerous awards and has been published for her expertise in several of the areas that she oversees.