Texas A&M University-Central Texas Names Dr. John Howe as Next Dean of Students

By Demetra Paizanis

Texas A&M University-Central Texas has named Dr. John Howe as its next dean of students, effective Jan. 1, 2026. He will begin his duties on campus Jan. 2.

Howe currently serves as vice provost for student affairs at Grand View University in Des Moines, Iowa, and brings more than two decades of experience in higher education leadership. His work has included oversight of student affairs operations, Title IX compliance and student engagement initiatives across multiple institutions.

Before joining Grand View, Howe served as associate dean of students at the University of South Dakota, where he supervised housing, student conduct and behavioral intervention. His earlier roles at Navarro College in Waxahachie, Texas, and Indiana University, as well as international appointments at Zayed University in Dubai and the American University of Afghanistan.

Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs Clifton W. Jones said the addition of Dr. Howe to the staff will bring an experienced leader to guide the services and programming designed to support students’ success and degree attainment.

“Howe has demonstrated the ability to connect with students, and he understands the issues they face while navigating higher education,” Jones said. “We look forward to his leadership as we continue to focus on student success and provide services and initiatives that make higher education more accessible to the people of Central Texas.”

Howe holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Angelo State University, a master’s degree in student affairs administration from Texas A&M University, and a doctorate in higher education from Indiana University.

Howe is excited about the opportunity and looking forward to working with the A&M–Central Texas community. “After meeting so many engaged students, dedicated student affairs staff, and committed campus partners during my visit, I am thrilled to be joining the Warrior community,” Howe said. “I look forward to working collaboratively to help students foster connections and explore their vocational identities.”