This fall semester, Wilbur Wright College welcomed two new Deans of Instruction, Dr. James Howley and Mr. Gabe Estill. Both of which have extensive experience and rich knowledge in this field.
Howley taught and served for more than twenty years as an Administrator in Public Higher Education in Illinois, his most recent position being the Director of Interdisciplinary Studies and Student Academic Affairs at Governors State University (GSU). He also served as a Chair of the Liberal Arts division while he was at GSU.
“I see my work as one of helping students and supporting faculty as they work with students. I am excited to be at Wright because of the high level of engagement I see from faculty and staff, and I hope that I can help bring people together and collaborate in order to enhance the students’ experience,” said Howley.
Howley has a PhD in Sociology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and has a strong commitment to social justice. Among his awards are the Leroy Morrison Civil Service Senate Outstanding Award, the Student Success Program Distinguished Service Award, and the Latino Center for Excellence Leadership Award.
Estill also has a broad experience with over thirteen years in secondary and postsecondary education, his most recent position being the Director of Academic Assessment at Moraine Valley Community College where he served for seven years. Estill is also committed to working with faculty and searching for ways to innovate with the goal of creating more opportunities for students.
“ I chose Wilbur Wright College for its commitment to teaching, learning, innovation, and student success. I look forward to assisting faculty, students, and staff on a variety of academic initiatives. I am certain challenges will emerge, but I can already tell that I am surrounded by a talented, committed group that wants to see students succeed. I am excited to be in such a collaborative environment,” said Estill.
Prior to his arrival at Moraine, Estill served as Department Chair and Instructor at St. Augustine College. He also served as the faculty co-advisor to the art and hip-hop groups at Holy Trinity High School in Chicago, and has taught writing courses at Harold Washington College. In his spare time, Estill enjoys creative writing near Lake Michigan, and is working towards his doctorate in higher education administration at Illinois State University.