New Deans Announced
In July, the university welcomed new academic deans in the schools of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Education, and Natural Sciences.

Vallance has spent more than 26 years as an educator and administrator at the U.S. Air Force Academy, focusing on curriculum development and assessment, strategic planning, educational technology, accreditation review, administrative organization, and international education. She was an American Council of Education Fellow in 1999–2000 and has completed several international consultancies.

Jenlink, a recipient of the Leadership Foundation in Education Award, has taught since 1992 at both East Texas Baptist University and Stephen F. Austin State University. She has worked on curriculum development for more than 10 years, and she also has served as president of the Consortium of State Organizations for Texas Teacher Education.

Bicak has taught biology and social sciences for 31 years, most recently at the University of Nebraska–Kearney. Previously, he taught at California State University–Bakersfield. The recipient of numerous teaching and research awards, Bicak is a founding member of the Iain Nicolson Audubon Center Stewardship Board. He also has eight years of administrative experience.

In addition, two longtime faculty members retain positions as administrators. Molly Minus is dean of Academic Services, while outgoing Behavioral and Social Sciences Dean Marianne Hopper is now dean of University Programs.