Amarillo College's Lowery-Hart named lone finalist for Austin chancellor position
Amarillo College President Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart has been announced as the sole finalist for Austin Community College District's (ACC) next Chancellor.
The Amarillo College (AC) Board of Regents is hosting a special meeting Tuesday afternoon, discussing a preparation plan to seek a new president should Lowery-Hart decide to accept the offer.
According to a news release released by ACC, the board unanimously approved Lowery-Hart during its regular board meeting on Monday, July 24.
ACC's process for a new Chancellor began in January 2023 and included a multiple-round interview schedule. The college hired an outside firm to lead the process and developed a 35-person search advisory committee.
Lowery-Hart was among three finalists who visited Austin and participated in nine community forums at campuses in the district’s North, Central, and South regions. Afterward, Trustees conducted site visits at the finalists’ campuses to learn more about them and their college culture.
Lowery-Hart stated in the news release: “I’m honored and thrilled and overwhelmed. Community colleges are the place of innovation, and ACC is one of the premier districts in the country. I think the talent and resources exist here to do something truly magical ... I look forward to engaging with faculty and staff to explore the next phase of innovation. That’s my passion. It’s why I’m in this work and ultimately, what I look forward to bringing to ACC.”
According to the ACC, their Board of Trustees will now begin the negotiation process with Dr. Lowery-Hart. There is a state-mandated 21-day waiting period before finalizing leadership changes.
Related: Amarillo College celebrates Aspen award, announces what's next at state of the college meeting
If appointed, Lowery-Hart would become the ninth Chancellor of the Austin Community College District. He would replace current Chancellor Dr. Richard M. Rhodes, who announced his retirement in January following 12 years of service to the college and Central Texas region.
During this time, Lowery-Hart remains AC president.
Look for more information on this story as it develops later this week.
This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Amarillo College leader Lowery-Hart named Austin chancellor finalist
