BELTON, Texas— The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor (UMHB) is pleased to announce that Dr. Colin Wilborn has been promoted to Associate Provost, in addition to his current role as Executive Dean for the Mayborn College of Health Sciences. This appointment underscores Dr. Wilborn's outstanding contributions to UMHB and his continued commitment to academic excellence.
In his new role as Associate Provost, Dr. Wilborn will oversee regional accreditation (SACSCOC) and various operational activities within the Office of Academic Affairs, including faculty contracting and student appeals. This expanded role will enhance the Office of Academic Affairs' operational effectiveness.
Dr. Wilborn, an alumnus of UMHB, first joined the university in 2006 as an assistant professor in Exercise and Sport Science (EXSS). His early contributions included serving as Graduate Program Director for EXSS and Director of the Human Performance Lab, a facility now renowned nationally for its research in sport science and nutrition.
His strong leadership was further demonstrated when he was appointed Dean of the Graduate School in 2010. During his tenure, he was instrumental in launching UMHB's first online degree in Sport Administration and expanded graduate program offerings to include Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physician Assistant, Public Health, and Nursing. Dr. Wilborn's expertise with accrediting bodies was pivotal in the SACSCOC Decennial Reaffirmation and various programmatic accreditations.
In 2015, Dr. Wilborn took on the additional role of Dean of Research, where he facilitated the introduction of travel grants, established a robust research committee, and significantly enhanced the university's research capabilities.
Most notably, Dr. Wilborn's leadership led to the Mayborn College of Health Sciences creation in 2018. As Executive Dean and founding dean, he successfully merged EXSS, Nursing, and the new School of Health Professions, positioning UMHB as a leader in interdisciplinary health sciences education.
UMHB Provost Dr. John Vassar expressed enthusiasm about Dr. Wilborn's new role: "We are grateful for Dr. Wilborn's exceptional service to UMHB. His dedication and leadership have greatly contributed to the growth and success of our institution. We look forward to his continued impact in his new role as Associate Provost."
