El Paso Community College's Vice President Steven Smith recently announced the appointment of Professor Michael Gonzalez as the new Interim Dean of Architecture, Art, Math, and Science (AAMS) at the Valle Verde Campus, starting February 1, as reported by EPCC News. Professor Gonzalez will take on the role following a successful tenure as the History Coordinator and Acting Dean of ESL, Reading, and Social Sciences Division this past summer.
Dr. Smith highlighted Gonzalez's balanced expertise in both teaching and administrative functions, emphasizing his advocate role for faculty and student interests; in a statement obtained by EPCC News, he said, "Professor Gonzalez brings a deep understanding of both instructional and administrative perspectives to the AAMS Division." The new dean's goal is to echo and enhance the community college's dedication to high-quality education and to support its students. Gonzalez expressed his enthusiasm, citing, "I am grateful and excited for the opportunity to work alongside faculty and staff in advancing EPCC's mission," according to EPCC News.
Joining EPCC's faculty as an adjunct back in 2009, Gonzalez moved up the ranks at the college over the years, securing tenure by 2018. His contributions have extended beyond the classroom, engaging in numerous service roles such as chairing important committees and, as recently as 2023 and 2025, he played a key role in organizing Faculty Senate elections.
Gonzalez, an alumnus of New Mexico State University holding a master's degree in history, has actively contributed to EPCC's broader community initiatives like Achieving the Dream and currently presides over the Tenure Committee for the academic year 2025/26 also includes significant engagement in EPCC's early college high school partnerships, as revealed by EPCC News.
