Purpose

The primary mission of the Dean's Council is to help the Dean with strategic planning, external relations, and enhancing the educational and research mission of the Whitacre College of Engineering. As alumni and friends of the college in key leadership positions, the members of the Council serve as real-time sounding boards and counselors for the Dean.

Membership

Each member serves one three-year term, with the option to renew for a second three-year term if nominated.  Initial terms of membership commence at the beginning of the regular fall meeting and end three years later, immediately prior to the beginning of the regular fall meeting. The Council strives for diversity among its members — not only with regard to age, race, gender, and national origin, but also regarding profession, specialization, industry, and geography.

Meetings

The Dean's Council meets twice annually; once in the fall on Homecoming weekend and once in the spring in early April, in conjunction with the Distinguished Engineers luncheon. 

Member Expectations

• Dean's Council members are encouraged to contribute annually to the Council's operating account at or before the fall meeting. The annual contribution level and use of the funds is determined by the Dean's Council in order to execute one or more purposes of the Council. The Council currently sponsors the McAuley Award, which provides a $5,000 award to an outstanding graduating senior, and supports Ethics Day at Texas Tech University. In addition, the Council invests approximately $7,000 per year in a Dean's Council endowment fund, which will provide recurring funds to support Dean's Council activities.
• Members are expected to attend all Dean's Council meetings. If a member misses two consecutive meetings, the member will be removed from the Council pursuant to the bylaws.
• Dean's Council members are expected to serve as an officer of the Council or on one of the Dean's Council standing or ad hoc committees during their term. Standing committees consist of the Nominating Committee, McAuley Award Committee, and Ethics Day Committee.

Rewards

Individuals who choose to invest their time and energy to serve on the Dean's Council have a tremendous impact in shaping the future of the Whitacre College of Engineering as we continually seek to enhance our quality, our reputation, and our service to the state of Texas and the nation. The strong bond built among our current and past council members and the dean, faculty, and staff of the college lasts a lifetime.