Managing Editor Alex Ortuno
In one month, many things can change. It has been one month since Dr. Justin Lonon became the chancellor for Dallas College. Lonon was interviewed on the Dallas College ‘Spotlight’ series, a series where they interview guests over their accomplishments.
Lonon expressed his gratitude for being chancellor and how it presents new responsibilities for him but also wants to make employees feel at a place of belonging, especially when issues are to be resolved.
“I feel the weight of the responsibility in a very different way than I did even in my previous role.”
Lonon said how everyone has been welcoming and supportive so he has been excited for the opportunities that are ahead. Lonon has said that he’s more of a ‘laidback’ kind of guy and is fairly approachable.
“I walk the halls, and as I’m on campus, I want employees to feel empowered to wave their hand and go, ‘Hey, here’s an issue. Let’s take care of it,’” Lonon said.
Tackling the job of being chancellor not only brings new responsibilities but also new challenges. Lonon said he understood that with the Dallas College transition, there are problems and other issues that must be addressed. The Action 2022 Plan was launched to identify problems that need to be resolved.
Lonon said the college has many great people who are serving the students and ensuring that Dallas College is providing the needs of the community, businesses and industries. The Dallas College Foundation has been a focus as it has received expansions that directly impact students and parents.
“We’re going to continue to expand the [Dallas County] Promise, expand our Early College High School P-TECH offerings throughout Dallas County,” Lonon said.
“We’re working on a baccalaureate program around nursing, and so that we’ll be further along in that. And then also, in the online space, that we have developed complete online programs.”
Colleges have their own style of life and culture and Lonon wants to focus on this multi-year challenge. Lonon said he wants Dallas College to be known as one of the best places to work in and for it to make a difference in the community.
“There is no other institution that I’m aware of that can have the impact on individual lives, and serving business and industry, and ultimately our community,” Lonon said.
“We are the bridge between those that are looking to get into the educational pipeline to better their lives, and business and industry that are trying to get people to work.”
Lonon said he has been amazed by the work from the faculty and staff and the student stories, some of whom he has stayed in contact with over the years.
Lonon said the mission has kept him involved within Dallas College as he wants to continue helping the community.
“It’s about making an impact,” Lonon said. “And I don’t know where else that an institution can make such an impact in individual lives, and then the community, the way Dallas College can. And that’s what has kept me here. That’s what I’ve been passionate about, and that’s what I’m excited about as we look ahead.”
