UTPB Deans

Meet your Dean for the College of Arts and Humanities, Dr. Christopher L. Morrow. A scholar, teacher, and writer, Dr. Morrow brings a wealth of experience and creativity to UTPB while remaining deeply connected to his West Texas roots.

Returning Home to Lead

Now in his second year as Dean, Dr. Morrow is proud to return to the Permian Basin, where the open skies and enduring spirit of West Texas shaped his early years. He is dedicated to strengthening the arts and humanities at UTPB by fostering creativity, critical thinking, and cultural engagement for students and the wider community.

Academic Journey and Leadership

Before joining UTPB, Dr. Morrow served as professor of English and department head of English and Languages at Tarleton State University. He previously spent thirteen years at Western Illinois University, advancing from assistant to full professor. During his time there, he directed the University Writing Center and served as Interim Department Chair. His leadership is marked by collaboration, mentorship, and an unwavering commitment to student success.

Scholarship and Creative Work

Dr. Morrow holds a PhD and MA in English Literature from Texas A&M University, and a BA in English Literature from the University of Wyoming. His academic research focuses on Shakespeare, adaptation, and the history of the book, with more recent scholarship in video game studies. Beyond academia, he is also a creative writer, publishing short stories, creative nonfiction, and poetry.

Fun Facts about Dr. Morrow

When he's not leading the College of Arts and Humanities, Dean Morrow enjoys a variety of hobbies and interests:
He spend a great deal of time reading and writing. I am generally reading 5-7 books at any one time, ranging from poetry to science.

• Favorite Shakespeare Plays: Othello, Henry V, and Hamlet
• Favorite Novels: Killing Commendatore by Haruki Murakami, The Forever War by Joe Haldeman, Realm of the Elderlings series by Robin Hobb
• Favorite Nonfiction: The Emerald Mile by Kevin Fedarko, Goodbye to a River by John Graves, and Why Fish Don’t Exist by Lulu Miller
• Favorite Magazine: New Scientist
• Favorite Video Games: Red Dead Redemption 2, Horizon Zero Dawn, and Dave the Diver
  

Getting to know Dr. Morrow

We asked Dr. Morrow a few fun questions to get to know him better:

• When you aren’t working, what can we catch you doing?
  "Reading, writing, playing video games and board games with my family and friends, and hanging with my four Siberian huskies. Contrary to what one might think, they actually appreciate the heat and will even 'sunbathe' on the porch for short stretches. But, like all of us, they appreciate some good air conditioning."

• What do you like most about West Texas?
  "There is a lot to like but probably the sunsets, seeing the horizon, the lack of humidity, and the friendliness of the people."

• What advice would you give your college self?
  "Don’t believe in the sciences / arts and humanities divide. There is nothing wrong with learning about both. Take broader classes and don’t worry so much about 'what’s next?' Oh, and go to more athletics, art, music, and lecture events! Sports and culture will never be as affordable as they are in college!"

Dr. Morrow is shaping the College of Arts & Humanities into a vibrant hub where students, creativity, and culture come together to inspire West Texas and beyond. 

Meet your Dean for the College of Business, Dr. Ansley Chua. With a career that bridges corporate experience and higher education leadership, Dr. Chua brings a wealth of knowledge and a global perspective to UTPB. His vision is to prepare students for success in business while fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in West Texas and beyond.

A Global Journey to Business Leadership

Born in Manila, Philippines, and raised in Tampa, Florida, Dr. Chua brings a unique perspective shaped by both international and U.S. experiences. Before pursuing a career in higher education, he worked in various corporate roles across New York and Florida, gaining firsthand insights into the world of business. His personal and professional journey reflects resilience, dedication, and a deep commitment to education—balancing family life with graduate studies, including welcoming his two children during pivotal moments in his doctoral work.

Academic Path and Leadership

Dr. Chua holds a PhD in Business Administration (Finance) and a BS in Biological Sciences from Florida State University, as well as an MS in Information and Communication Systems from Ball State University. His academic career began at the University of Texas–Pan American in McAllen, Texas, before moving to Kansas State University. At K-State, he transitioned from faculty member to Department Head of Finance and ultimately to Associate Dean, where he developed a reputation for strong leadership, innovation, and student-centered growth.

Building the Future of Business at UTPB

Now as Dean of the College of Business at UT Permian Basin, Dr. Chua is focused on advancing programs that prepare students to thrive in an ever-changing global economy. Under his leadership, the college continues to foster opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and regional impact.

Fun Facts:

When you’re not leading the College of Business, Dr. Chua enjoys a variety of hobbies and interests:

• Favorite Book: Lord of the Rings
• Favorite Movie: The Godfather
• Favorite Sitcom: Friends
• Favorite Music: Smells Like Teen Spirit
• Favorite Food: Dim Sum

 Getting to know Dr. Chua

 We asked Dr. Chua a few fun questions to get to know him better:

• When you aren’t working, what can we catch you doing?
  "Exploring new places to eat. Enjoying live music and music festivals."

• What do you like most about West Texas?
  "The friendly people. I feel very welcomed by everybody I have met so far."

• What advice would you give your college self?
  "Take advantage of the student organizations that are available to you. This will make your college years more rewarding in many ways."

Dr. Chua is leading the College of Business with vision and dedication—preparing students to excel as innovative leaders who will shape the future of West Texas and beyond.

Meet your Dean for the College of Education, Dr. Seybert brings a wealth of experience and a passionate commitment to education excellence in West Texas.

Leading with Vision and Passion

Jennifer Seybert is a native West Texan dedicated to shaping the future of education in our region. As Dean, she oversees a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including teacher certification, counseling, educational leadership, special education, curriculum and instruction, and superintendent certification. Her role also encompasses internships, the practicum experience, and the innovative teacher residency program.

Dr. Seybert's leadership extends beyond the university as she fosters strong partnerships with regional public school districts and community organizations, ensuring our programs are aligned with the needs of West Texas communities.

A Rich Background in Education

With 26 years of experience in the field of education, Dr. Seybert's journey is both impressive and inspiring. She holds a terminal degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Texas San Antonio, as well as a Master's and Bachelor of Science degree from UTPB. Her extensive certifications include Superintendent, Principal, and teaching certifications at all levels.

Her professional journey has seen her excel in various roles, from teaching in public schools to serving in administrative capacities such as Principal, Instructional Services Director, and Director of Mathematics. Each role has contributed to her strong leadership skills and unwavering commitment to educational excellence.

Fun Facts about Dr. Seybert

When she’s not leading the College of Education, Dr. Seybert enjoys a variety of hobbies and interests:

• Favorite Book: Anything by John Maxwell
• Favorite Movie: Top Gun
• Favorite Sitcom: Reba!
• Favorite Music: 80s Country
• Favorite Food: Pasta

Getting to Know Dr. Seybert

We asked Dr. Seybert a few fun questions to get to know her better:

• When you aren’t working, what can we catch you doing?
  "When not working, you will find me cheering on my children or traveling! My son plays collegiate golf, and my daughter is a high school cheerleader. The two of them keep me very busy and when not busy, we love to travel together...traveling includes fast-paced and exciting adventures!"

• What do you like most about West Texas?
  "I LOVE the people of West Texas! West Texans are extremely generous, kind, and strong. The people of West Texas are the glue that holds our community together."

• What advice would you give your college self?
  "Slow down, there is no rush to get to the next step. Life is a journey to be enjoyed."

Dr. Seybert's dedication, expertise, and passion for education make her an invaluable asset to the College of Education at UT Permian Basin. Under her leadership, we are confident that our programs will continue to thrive and positively impact the future of West Texas.

Meet your Dean for the College of Engineering & Sciences, Dr. Rafic Bachnak. With more than 30 years of teaching, research, and leadership experience, Dr. Bachnak brings a wealth of expertise and a strong vision for advancing STEM education at UT Permian Basin.

A Career of Leadership and Innovation

Before joining UTPB, Dr. Bachnak served as Interim Dean of the College of Sciences and Humanities at Marymount University. His career also includes over a decade as professor of electrical engineering at Penn State University–Harrisburg, where he directed the Smart Home Research Initiative and founded the STEM-Summer Enrichment Program. He has also held key academic leadership roles at Texas A&M International University and Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi, where he led departments, launched outreach programs, and advanced student recruitment and retention in STEM fields.

Research and Professional Impact

Dr. Bachnak’s research focuses on sensor measurements, system integration, and control system applications. He has secured funding from federal agencies, private foundations, and industry partners, and has published more than 140 peer-reviewed papers. His professional service includes leadership roles in IEEE, ASEE, and ABET, where he continues to support engineering education at a national and international level.

Educational Background

Dr. Bachnak earned his B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Ohio University.

Fun Facts:

When you’re not leading the College of Engineering and Sciences, Dr. Bachnak enjoys a variety of hobbies and interests:

• Favorite Movie: Forrest Gump
• Favorite Sitcom: Frasier
• Favorite Music: Pop and Country
• Favorite Food: Barbecue and Cheesecake

Getting to know Dr. Bachnak

We asked Dr. Bachnak a few fun questions to get to know him better:

• When you aren’t working, what can we catch you doing?
  "I love spending time outdoors—visiting parks, hiking, gardening, and exploring nature."

• What do you like most about West Texas?
  "I love most the natural beauty and the warm climate, the rich blend of cultures, and the friendly and welcoming communities."

Meet your Dean for the College of Health Sciences, Dr. Carl Cates. With decades of academic leadership experience, Dr. Cates brings a strong commitment to advancing health sciences education and preparing the next generation of healthcare leaders.

A Career of Academic Leadership

Before joining UT Permian Basin, Dr. Cates served as Dean of Liberal Arts at Arkansas State University. His career also includes 19 years of service at Valdosta State University, where he spent three years as Associate Dean and 16 years as Department Chair. His leadership is marked by a steady focus on student success, faculty collaboration, and program development.

Educational Background

Dr. Cates earned his Ph.D. in Communication from Florida State University.

Fun Facts about Dr. Cates

When you’re not leading the College of Health Sciences, Dr. Cates enjoys a variety of hobbies and interests:

• Favorite Book: The next one I read
• Favorite Movie:
• Favorite Sitcom: Big Bang
• Favorite Music: 70s Rock
• Favorite Food: Most things with Curry

Getting to know Dr. Cates

We asked Dr. Cates a few fun questions to get to know him better:

• When you aren’t working, what can we catch you doing?
  "Going to minor league sports"

• What do you like most about West Texas?
  "I grew up here. I like the ability to breath and the sky."

• What advice would you give your college self?
  "Don’t be afraid to transfer."

Dr. Cates is guiding the College of Health Sciences with experience and vision, preparing students to make a lasting impact on the health and well-being of West Texas communities.