NCTC Faculty Chosen as TCCTA Faculty Fellows for 2024-2025

Astonida Draper

Jeremy Brannon

NCTC is proud to announce the selection of full-time faculty Government Professor Jeremy Brannon and adjunct Accounting Instructor Astonida Draper to serve as Texas Community College Teachers Association Faculty Fellows for 2024-2025.  The Texas Community College Teachers Association (TCCTA), the largest organization of community college educators in the nation, specifically designed the Faculty Fellows Program for new faculty members, both full-time and adjuncts, who have been teaching at their respective institutions for five years or less. Applicants who have demonstrated leadership potential and who have expressed interest in college governance are nominated for the program by their Division/Department Chairs.

The Faculty Fellows program assists beginning faculty leaders in developing strategies for addressing the complex challenges currently facing Texas colleges and communities. Throughout the year, participants will have opportunities to network with their peers and to engage in problem solving on a state, regional and local level.  Expenses are paid to attend the virtual fall Faculty Leaders Conference October 5, 2024, as well as the general convention February 20-22, 2025 in Houston, Texas. Additionally, Faculty Fellows participate in legislative briefings, conversations with colleagues through Master Teacher Meet-Up groups, and web conferences on key issues in higher education.  

Candace Purdy, NCTC Faculty Fellow 2023-2024, especially enjoyed the legislative updates and presentations at the Fall 2023 Leadership Conference.  She commented that “the information in the sessions for the conference was really good. . . I liked interacting in the small group breakout sessions, as well. I met some very interesting people.” Professor Purdy concluded that “I just wanted to learn more about higher education policy in Texas, and I think that definitely happened.”

NCTC has participated in the Faculty Fellows program since its inception in 2018. Chancellor Brent Wallace, a strong supporter of the Faculty Fellows program, commented, “Our enthusiasm for this program reflects and enhances NCTC’s longstanding partnership with TCCTA.  The college is committed to supporting TCCTA and encouraging participation, and we are proud that our faculty responds enthusiastically to the opportunities offered.  Currently some of our faculty members have assumed leadership roles in the organization, including acting as session chairs, serving on statewide committees, and presenting at conferences. We hope that participation in the Fellows Program will encourage even wider involvement!”

By participating in the TCCTA Fellowship Program, the NCTC Faculty Fellows will be maximizing their leadership potential and benefiting the college by applying their skills and expertise in promoting student success and institutional effectiveness.  Congratulations to Jeremy Brannon and Astonida Draper as they join a vibrant group of educators who are examining the complications of the current academic environment and are developing effective responses to meet the challenges that lie ahead. 

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