Dr. Clarenda Phillips Announced as A&M-Corpus Christi Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi announces Dr. Clarenda Phillips as the new Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. Phillips assumes her duties on March 1, 2018.

“I am excited to join the A&M-Corpus Christi community and look forward to serving with President Quintanilla, faculty, and staff in advancing the mission of the University,” said Phillips. “Building on the solid foundation that is in place, my goal is to foster collaborative relationships that fuel teaching and research excellence for the benefit of our students. Together we can help our students achieve their potential and realize their dreams so that they can have a positive impact on their families, their communities and the world.”

In her new role as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Phillips is responsible for supporting research and scholarly activities, providing a challenging educational experience for the diverse Islander student body, overseeing international activities and supporting collaborative efforts involving industry, the community and educational partners.

“I look forward to working with Dr. Phillips in ensuring unparalleled commitment to every student’s success,” said Dr. Kelly Quintanilla, President and CEO of Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. “Her previous experiences and skills are perfectly aligned with the mission of the University.”

Phillips received her bachelor’s degree from DePauw University, her master’s degree and doctorate in sociology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and her master’s in divinity from Asbury Theological Seminary.

Phillips holds a breadth of experience in educational and administrative roles at both Notre Dame of Maryland University and Morehead State University. Her teaching and research has focused on the sociology of mental health and the intersectionality of race, gender and class. Phillips has authored several book chapters and articles, and she is the co-editor of “African American Fraternities and Sororities: The Legacy and the Vision,” which is now serving as the basis of a documentary.

The position of provost was left vacant after Quintanilla, who served as provost from 2015-2016, was named University President. Dr. Ted Guffy, who has served as Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, welcomes Phillips into her new role.