Sobey named VPAA

Dr. Frank Sobey

By Gillian Crist
Page Editor

Dr. Frank Sobey has been named Amarillo College’s vice president of academic affairs (VPAA) by interim President Denese Skinner after serving as vice president of strategic initiatives.

Sobey began working at AC in 2005 as an English instructor and in 2017 was named the associate vice president of academic affairs. In his new position, some of Sobey’s responsibilities include maintaining the curricular integrity of academic programs and specific accreditations for different programs. He also oversees the hiring and evaluation of staff members. 

“There’s an outward-facing component to the job, making sure we have good partnerships with employers and with our ISDs in our service areas, as well as the four-year institutions we primarily send our transfer students to,” Sobey said. 

Sobey said he believes another essential duty in his new role is to create a positive work environment that people can look forward to. Dean of Liberal Arts, Becky Easton, said she is pleased to see him in this role as she believes he has a deep knowledge for the college, a heart for the people and a long list of experience. 

“In his career, he has been a student, tutor, instructor, chair, dean, associate vice president and now a vice president, so he knows what it’s like to be on each organizational level of academic affairs,” Easton said. “He has always been dedicated to teaching and learning. He is level-headed in his decision-making. Moreover, he is an outstanding listener.”

Sobey has a history of development and adaptation at Amarillo College. “Dr. Sobey’s tenure at Amarillo College has been marked by a trajectory of consistent professional growth and a commitment to academic excellence,” Bob Austin, vice president of enrollment management, said. “He has progressively embraced increasingly challenging roles, demonstrating a steadfast dedication to the institution’s mission. His tenure in this role was characterized by a collaborative spirit and an ability to work across the College to achieve common goals. His proven track record of effective management and his deep understanding of the academic landscape make him the perfect candidate for the position of VPAA at Amarillo College.”

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