Following a national search, Dr. Mary Barnes-Tilley has been appointed vice president for instruction at Black Hawk College.
 
She joined the college in July 2025 as interim vice president for instruction.
 
“Dr. Barnes-Tilley has demonstrated strong leadership, a collaborative approach with faculty and staff, and a deep commitment to student success,” said Dr. Jeremy Thomas, Black Hawk College president.
 
“I am confident that her experience, leadership style and commitment to the mission of the community college make her the right person to lead instruction at Black Hawk College,” he said.
 
“Over the past seven months, I have had the opportunity to build meaningful relationships, deepen my understanding of the college, and experience significant professional growth,” Dr. Barnes-Tilley said.
 
“What has stood out to me most during this time is the genuine passion that our faculty, staff and administrators bring to supporting students and their success.
 
“That shared commitment is truly inspiring and gives me great optimism for the future of Black Hawk College,” she said.
 
About Dr. Mary Barnes-Tilley
 
Dr. Barnes-Tilley earned an Associate of Arts degree in liberal arts from Blinn College in Brenham, TX, then a bachelor’s degree in government from the University of Texas at Austin. She completed a master’s degree in political science from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, TX, and a Ph.D. in political science from Texas A&M University in College Station, TX.
 
Dr. Barnes-Tilley returned to Blinn College where she taught government for 22 years and served as an assistant division chair, division chair and assistant instructional dean of social sciences. She also was an associate dean of academic affairs and workforce, dean of academic affairs and workforce, and campus provost at Collin College in Plano, TX.