51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ

PLAINVIEW, TX — 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University has announced a series of significant administrative changes affecting several campuses and leadership roles, reflecting the university’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence and strategic growth. The changes are effective July 1, 2026.

Leadership Transitions and Campus Realignment

Dr. Jerry Faught II, who has served as Executive Director and Campus Dean at the Wichita Falls campus, will assume the role of Dean at the San Antonio campus. In his new capacity, Dr. Faught will oversee both the San Antonio campus and the Wichita Falls location, which will transition from a full campus to a teaching site. Dr. Faught succeeds Dr. Glenn Simmons, who is retiring.

Dr. Jeffrey Tillman has been appointed as the new site coordinator for the Wichita Falls teaching site, ensuring continued support and leadership for students and faculty during this transition.

At the Lubbock campus, Dr. Christy Reed, currently assistant dean, will step into the role of interim dean, replacing Dr. Judy Jarratt, who is retiring. In addition to her new responsibilities at Lubbock, Reed will oversee the Amarillo campus, which, like Wichita Falls, will become a teaching site. Student services representative Deetress Peoples will serve as the site coordinator for Amarillo.

Executive Leadership Updates

Dr. David Bishop, vice president of external campuses, is retiring and will not be replaced. Oversight of external campuses and teaching sites will now fall under Dr. Cindy McClenagan, who has been named provost.

Additionally, Dr. Jay Givens, who has been named associate vice president of academics, will assume responsibility for university accreditation.

In a move to further strengthen the university’s leadership team, 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ will establish a new cabinet position: vice president of strategic initiatives and innovation/chief of staff.

A Commitment to Excellence

“These changes reflect 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ’s dedication to providing exceptional educational opportunities and adapting to the evolving needs of our students and communities,” said Dr. Donna Hedgepath. “We are grateful for the service of our retiring leaders and excited for the vision and expertise our new appointees bring. I am confident that these transitions will position 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ for continued growth and impact in the years ahead.”