HPU announces new faculty, promotions and transitions

Howard Payne University recently began its fall 2018 semester with several changes to its faculty in regard to new hires, promotions and transitions.

Rachel Derrington was employed as assistant professor of social work and director of the social work program while Frank Nelson was employed as the director of bands and assistant professor of music. Dr. Eric Covington, formerly HPU’s resident director for Taylor Hall and the campus apartments, became the assistant professor of Christian studies for the New Braunfels extension center. Deborah Dill, formerly HPU’s acquisitions coordinator and administrative assistant to the dean of libraries, was promoted to the role of director of libraries. Two additional faculty members received promotions: Lauren Kirk was promoted from instructor of education to assistant professor of education and Amy Kresta was promoted from instructor of biology to assistant professor of biology.

“We’re pleased to welcome Ms. Derrington and Mr. Nelson to HPU’s faculty, and we extend our congratulations to all of those who received promotions,” said Dr. W. Mark Tew, HPU’s provost and chief academic officer.

Derrington holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from the University of Denver and a Master of Social Work degree in policy and program management from the University of Denver Graduate School of Social Work. She was most recently employed at the same university as an adjunct professor and curriculum developer.

Nelson holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from HPU and a Master of Music Education degree from the University of Northern Colorado. He has additional graduate study toward a Doctor of Music Education degree from the University of Northern Colorado. He most recently served as interim assistant band director at El Dorado High School and as associate director of bands at Belton High School.

Dr. Covington, who joined the HPU staff in January 2017, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Master of Arts degree from Dallas Baptist University. He additionally earned a Master of Arts degree from Wheaton College, and a Master of Letters degree and Doctor of Philosophy degree from University of St. Andrews.

Dill was originally employed by the university in 1992 and re-employed in 2014. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from HPU and the Master of Library Science degree from the University of North Texas.

Kirk joined the HPU faculty in 2010. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree and Master of Science degree, both from Baylor University, and additional graduate study toward the Doctor of Education in curriculum and instruction from Liberty University.

Kresta was employed by HPU in 2011. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas Lutheran College and a Master of Science degree from Texas A&M University. She has additional graduate study toward the Doctor of Philosophy degree in wildlife science from Texas A&M University – Kingsville.

 

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