"Amarillo College President Russell Lowery-Hart is pleased to announce the appointment of Denese Skinner as Vice President of Student Affairs, effective September 5.
Denese Skinner currently serves as the Director for Career Services at West Texas A&M University. Skinner joined the WTAMU staff in 1993 and has served the university in a variety of leadership positions including both interim Vice President of Enrollment Management and interim Vice President of Student Affairs.
Skinner found success at Amarillo College as a student. She attended AC on a basketball scholarship. Skinner went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in education from Texas Tech University and a master’s degree in education, professional counseling from WTAMU.
While at Amarillo College, Skinner established mentoring relationships with faculty and staff, which she credits for giving her the motivation to pursue her aspirations in life.
“The things happening at AC in terms of helping students find success is incredible,” said Skinner. “I have been thoroughly impressed by the accomplishments of everyone at the college and how they all step-up to help students succeed. I am excited to become a member of the team that will further student success and completion.”
“I could not think of a more capable, enthusiastic leader for this division than Denese Skinner,” said Lowery-Hart. “Dense brings a wealth of experience, knowledge, and most importantly passion to this position and I am thrilled to see what she will do in this role.”
The Division of Student Affairs has been charged with the task of designing and implementing a comprehensive retention plan. This reorganized division will include Academic Advising, Career and Testing Services, Disability Services, Student Life, Coaches and Champions Program, Transfer Program, New Student Orientation, and Peer Tutoring.
“This reorganization of Student Affairs is a strategic move to help the college better support our students in their mission to graduate or transfer from Amarillo College,” said Lowery-Hart. “This division will support our students by enhancing the overall student experience, assisting in identifying educational and career goals, and fostering a student-centered culture on the Amarillo College campus.”
Skinner has over 20 years of leadership experience in higher education and 7 years of experience as a public school teacher and coach. Skinner is the two-time winner of WTAMU’s Clarence E. Thompson Staff Excellence Award and the recipient of WTAMU’s President’s Community Service Award. Additionally, Skinner served on a multitude of committees at WTAMU, all of which focused on student success."
-Amarillo College, Joe Wyatt
