Texas Tech University

Bill Dean retires after five decades at Texas Tech

College of Media & Communication

May 11, 2021

Bill Dean retires after five decades at Texas Tech

Dear Texas Tech College of Media & Communication Colleagues, Students, and Alumni:

Dr. Bill Dean has informed us that he plans to retire from full-time employment at Texas Tech University starting June 1, 2021.

Simply put, Dr. Dean has been the greatest servant, in terms of length of service and love for and engagement with our students and upholding of our mission, in the history of Texas Tech.

For those who don't know the whole story of this amazing educator, leader, and colleague, I have provided some links to an award ceremony where we honored him with a unique lifetime achievement award and other biographical appearances:

Bill Dean, Lifetime Service Award 2017

Top's Ten, Episode 30: Bill Dean

Dr. Dean has also provided a statement to the college:

"Fifty-four years have passed in a hurry.

God has blessed me in so many ways. I think my faith has sustained me over the many ups and downs one experiences in life.

My family, especially my wife Peggy, has endured along with me and offered continued support.

I am very much indebted to the support I received from department chairs Wally Garets, Dr. Billy Ross, Dr. Roger Saatoff, and deans Dr. Jerry Hudson and Dr. David Perlmutter.

I also appreciate the support and friendships I made with fellow faculty members, past and present.

I have taught close to 40,000 students. That is hard to believe. I still hear from many of them, and the experiences are very rewarding.

I firmly believe that Texas Tech University has consistently done a lot with a lot less than our competitors over the years and has emerged as the best university in this state to get an education.

That is especially true of the College of Media and Communication."

Thank you, Dr. Dean. Your commitment and contributions to the college and to the university are monumental, greatly appreciated, and long-lasting.

David D. Perlmutter Signature

David D. Perlmutter, Ph.D.
Professor and Dean
College of Media & Communication
Texas Tech University