Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart serves as the ninth Chancellor for Austin Community College District. His leadership is centered around the concept of LOVE, with a dedicated focus on enhancing student success through systemic and cultural transformation.
He previously served as president of Amarillo College from 2014 to 2023 and as vice president of academic affairs. Under his leadership, Amarillo College was named co-winner of the prestigious 2023 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. Other accolades include recognition from Achieving the Dream, the American Association of Community Colleges, and the Aspen Institute.
Russell received a bachelor’s degree in speech communication and rhetoric from West Texas State University, a master’s degree in communication studies from Texas Tech University, and a doctorate in interpersonal communication (with an emphasis on gender and diversity) from Ohio University. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Kody Hodge Foundation.
He and his wife of nearly 30 years, Tara, share three children.
