On Sept. 1, Dr. Jessica Mallard, director of the Attebury Honors Program and a speech communication professor, took over the position as interim dean for the WTAMU Sybil B. Harrington College of Fine Arts and Humanities replacing Dr. James Rennier.
Mallard said the occupation offers variety, which allows her to work in many areas involved with the college. She has become closer to many colleagues across WT and some outside the university.
“It’s been exciting to step out of my department and get to know other people,” Dr. Mallard said.
She said, one of her goals this year is to promote the college in the community.
Opportunities to bring attention to the College have been through entities such as the Amarillo Symphony and the Harrington String Quartet.
“I’m only the interim dean. My goal is to keep things on an even kill,” Dr. Mallard said. “But it won’t be a year of treading water. I would hope to have some things happen under my leadership.”
A recent project Mallard said has sparked her interest is the Vermillion Press. Installed under the direction of Dr. Rennier, the Vermillion Press is a printing press that produces large posters. It features local artists, faculty, and students who can collaborate to make beautiful works of art.
“I’m going to get a few of the prints to hang in [my office] to showcase what the college is doing,” Dr. Mallard said.
She hopes to bring more success to the College of Fine Arts and Humanities, which boasts one of the highest enrollments out of all the colleges at WT.
“I’m really honored to get to work with such great faculty and students,” Dr. Mallard said.
Mallard will remain the interim dean until the University finds the permanent dean for the college.
Mallard will remain the interim dean until the University finds the permanent dean for the college.
