Black Hawk College has named Dr. Mary Barnes-Tilley as its new vice president for instruction following a nationwide search. Dr. Barnes-Tilley initially joined the college as interim vice president in July 2025. College president Dr. Jeremy Thomas praised her leadership, collaborative spirit, and commitment to student success, emphasizing her fit for the role. “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.
Dr. Barnes-Tilley, who holds advanced degrees from institutions including Texas A&M University, brings over two decades of experience in higher education, highlighted by significant teaching and administrative roles in Texas, including leadership roles at Blinn College and Collin College. She expressed optimism, citing the college community’s shared passion for supporting student achievement. “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.
Beginning her academic journey at Blinn College, she later earned advanced degrees in government and political science from several Texas universities. After completing her Ph.D. at Texas A&M, Dr. Barnes-Tilley returned to Blinn College, where she spent 22 years teaching government and holding a variety of leadership positions, including assistant instructional dean. Her career continued at Collin College in Plano, where she made an impact as associate dean, dean of academic affairs and workforce, and eventually campus provost, shaping academic programs and supporting student success.
“That shared commitment is truly inspiring and gives me great optimism for the future of Black Hawk College,” she said.