Three Exemplars of Selfless Service

Published on Wed 08/17/22
Dear Texas A&M Community,

I want to point out three exemplars of selfless service as they complete their terms as dean. As you know, the Path Forward called for the creation of the College of Arts and Sciences. This required that the colleges of Geosciences, Liberal Arts, and Science be merged.

Valen Johnson has served as Dean of the College of Science since 2019 and was interim dean prior to that time. The College of Science is home to a Nobel Laureate and several National Academy of Sciences members. Several departments rank within the top 20 nationally.

Steven Oberhelman has served as Interim Dean of the College of Liberal Arts since 2021. Prior to that time, he served as Associate Dean for Undergraduate Programs. Scholars in liberal arts study the human condition in many fields of humanities and social sciences. They stand at the forefront of the production and dissemination of new knowledge and are nationally and internationally recognized for their scholarship. Liberal Arts faculty are also dedicated instructors who teach a third of the core curriculum for all Aggies. They train undergraduate majors to become the next generation of leaders.

Deborah Thomas has served as Dean of the College of Geosciences since 2019 and was interim dean prior to that date. During her time as dean, Debbie oversaw one of the nation’s most comprehensive earth-system colleges, which has been committed to discovery, advancement, and application of knowledge fundamental to understanding our planet and its resources for a sustainable future. Geosciences has served as home for the International Ocean Discovery Program and the Texas Sea Grant College Program.

Each of these individuals had the unenviable task of closing their respective colleges effective August 31, 2021, to form the new College of Arts and Sciences. Each has been instrumental in making the merger possible, advocating for their faculty, staff, and students, and contributing to what we believe will become a preeminent College of Arts and Sciences. While they incorporate all the core values we espouse, as their service term comes to a close, I wish to recognize their selfless service to the university, their respective colleges, and their colleagues.

I extend a heartfelt thanks to each one for service above and beyond.

Sincerely,

Timothy P. Scott ’89
Interim Provost & Executive Vice President