About the Vice President

Joel E. Vela joined Sul Ross State University Rio Grande College as vice president in May 2001.

Prior to his service with the university he served as president of Mount Hood Community College in Gresham, Ore., from 1996-2001; and as president of Palo Alto College in San Antonio, Texas, from 1993-1996.

He began his professional career as director of the bilingual education program for the San Angelo Public Schools in 1972. In addition he has worked for Penn Valley College of the Metropolitan Community College District of Kansas City, Mo., and North Lake College of the Dallas County Community College District.

Vela earned his undergraduate degree from Incarnate Word College of San Antonio in secondary education. He earned his master's degree from Angelo State University and his doctorate in education from the University of Wyoming.

In addition, he has participated in the State of Texas Governor's Executive Leadership Program; Harvard Institute for New Presidents; League for Innovation Leadership Program; the AACC/NCCHC/Ford Leadership Program; and the MALDEF/SMU Leadership Program. Vela is a member of the Middle Rio Grande Development Council, the Kiwanis Club and the Rotary Club.