NCTC Announces TCCTA Faculty Fellows for 2025-2026
Dr. Shalini Vij
NCTC is proud to announce the selection of Chemistry Professor Dr. Shalini Vij and Anatomy and Physiology Professor Crystal Hall to serve as Texas Community College Teachers Association Faculty Fellows for 2025-2026. The Texas Community College Teachers Association (TCCTA) is the largest professional organization of community college educators in the nation. TCCTA specifically designed the Faculty Fellows Program for new faculty members, both full-time and adjuncts, who have been teaching at the institution for five years or less. Applicants who have demonstrated leadership potential and who have expressed interest in college governance are nominated by their respective Division/Department Chairs.
The Texas Community College Teachers Association created the Faculty Fellows program to assist beginning faculty leaders in developing strategies for addressing the complex challenges currently facing our colleges and communities. Throughout the year, participants will have opportunities to network with their peers and to engage in problem solving on a state, regional and local level.
Expenses are paid to attend TCCTA events such as the virtual Fall Faculty Conference on October 11th, 2025 and the general convention scheduled for February 18-20, 2026 in Frisco, Texas. Additionally, the new Faculty Fellows can look forward to participating in legislative briefings, having on line conversations with colleagues from across the state and attending web conferences that address key issues in higher education. Astonida Draper, 2024-2025 Faculty Fellow, found her year as a Fellow “enlightening.” She reflected on her experience by commenting that “I really enjoyed meeting others in the program. I formed lasting relationships with the ladies in my group. The conference was great. It was exciting being amongst college instructors learning various instructional tips and best practices.”
Professor Crystal Hall
NCTC Chancellor Dr. Brent Wallace is highly supportive of TCCTA and the Faculty Fellows program. He noted that the organization “is the singular most effective representative group for community college faculty. It provides fresh perspectives in instruction, faculty representation in matters of state policy, and wonderful bonds of friendship for those who are members.”
By participating in the TCCTA Fellowship Program, the NCTC Faculty Fellows will be part of a vibrant group of educators who are gaining understanding of the complications of the current academic environment and are developing strategic responses to meet the challenges that lie ahead. Congratulations to Professors Shalini Vij andCrystal Hall as they begin a stimulating year of leadership development, inter-collegiate collaboration and problem solving.