Texan Mosaic

by REBEKAH HARVEY

Michael Hill, a West Texas native, was recently hired as the associate dean of students at South Plains College.

Hill, who has a background in student and residence life, graduated from Wylie High School in Abilene, Texas.

“I was born in Odessa,” said Hill, “and moved to Abilene when I was 13.”

After graduating from high school, Hill attended McMurry University in Abilene. During his time at McMurry, he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in theatre. After graduation, Hill began working at the university.

“I began working in higher education shortly after graduating from McMurry,” he said. “I actually started my career at McMurry in 2002 as the assistant director of student activities.”

After working at McMurry, Hill worked at the College of Wooster, located in Wooster, Ohio, where he also served as the assistant director of student activities.

After serving at the College of Wooster, it was time for him to come back home.

“I returned to Texas in 2008,” explained Hill, “and worked as the arts and activities director at Northwood University in Dallas.”

Four years later, Hill took on the position of residence life director at Northwood University. After Northwood closed their residential campus in 2014, Hill moved to Waco and became the campus living coordinator at Texas State Technical College until March 2019, before coming to SPC.

When he visited the SPC campus, Hill was impressed by the staff and students.

“I was intrigued by the associate dean of students position at SPC,” Hill said, “because it seemed to encompass both areas in which I have worked since 2002. After meeting with the dean of students, the vice president of student affairs, the president of SPC, various members of the faculty and staff, and several students, I knew that this campus would be a great place to work.”

Hill said he looks forward to learning more about the students and culture at SPC.
“I hope to have a positive impact on their college experience,” said Hill. “Additionally, I’m looking forward to getting involved with both SPC and Levelland communities.”

Hill says his primary goal while at SPC is to “provide a positive contribution to the student experience at SPC.”

As associate dean of students, Hill is responsible for campus housing and student life. He works closely with all student housing staff, such as hall directors and resident assistants. Being associate dean of students also includes student discipline, such as dean referrals, and facility maintenance. Hill is also involved in the policies and processes for all campus housing.

“I’m looking forward to working with residence life and student activities to further cultivate a healthy campus culture,” said Hill.