Midland High School principal becomes UTPB Dean of the College of Education

The University of Texas Permian Basin (UTPB) announced the appointment of Dr. Jennifer Seybert as the new Dean of the College of Education in a May 28 press release. Seybert will begin her new role on July 1.

According to the release, Seybert transitioned to UTPB from Midland ISD, where she served as principal of Midland High School for three years. Prior to this role, she was the founding principal at both UTPB STEM Academy and YWLA at Booker T. Washington. Seybert has also taught students ranging from pre-kindergarten to graduate level, and holds over 26 years of classroom and leadership experience.

“We are very excited to welcome Dr. Jennifer Seybert to UTPB as she takes on the pivotal role as the Dean of the College of Education,” said UTPB President Dr. Sandra Woodley in the release. “Seybert’s leadership comes at a critical time as we continue to focus on supporting and growing our teachers in the region. The development and support of educators is vital to the success of our community. With decades of administrative and classroom experience, Seybert’s leadership will bring innovative ideas and a responsive approach to K-12 education. She will undoubtedly make a positive impact on future generations.”

According to the release, Seybert earned both a Bachelor and Master of Science from UTPB and later achieved a Doctorate in Educational Leadership (Ed.D) from the University of Texas San Antonio.

“I am a home-grown educational leader and I’m excited to tackle the next challenges of education in West Texas. For more than a decade, I have served as a leader in our public schools and can't wait to bring that experience to my new role as Dean of the College of Education at The University of Texas Permian Basin,” said Seybert in the release. “Being able to work with Dr. Howard and Dr. Muri along with other education leaders in our area is exciting for me as we move West Texas to the forefront of educational practices. Together, with the faculty in the College of Education, we can collaborate on innovative teaching practices, curriculum, and so much more as we work to close the gap on the teacher, counselor, and administrator shortage in our community. I am ready and excited to lead this team and this community as we empower our teachers and leaders and create more quality seats for our students in West Texas.”

Seybert's experience spans teaching in public schools to roles in post-secondary education and various administrative positions, including Principal, Instructional Services Director, and Director of Mathematics.

“Dr. Seybert’s appointment to Dean of the College of Education is particularly significant given her strong ties to our region and her decades of classroom and educational leadership experience, which began right here at UTPB as an undergraduate and graduate student,” said UTPB’s Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Raj Dakshinamurthy in the release. “Dr. Seybert embodies the excellence and dedication we aim to inspire in our students. We are confident that Dr. Seybert will bring innovative ideas and strategic initiatives to our College of Education.”