The University of Texas Permian Basin is pleased to announce the appointment of Monica Tschauner as the new Executive Director for the Shepperd Leadership Institute. Tschauner’s appointment signals a significant step forward in the Institute’s mission to foster leadership development within the university and the broader community.
Bringing a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to serving West Texas, Tschauner is poised to propel the Shepperd Leadership Institute to new heights. Dr. Becky Spurlock, Senior Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, expressed confidence in Tschauner’s ability to expand the Institute’s reach and impact, stating, “Monica brings to SLI a passion for leadership, serving the community, and a love for West Texas.”
Originally from Odessa, Tschauner’s roots run deep in the region. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Texas Tech University and has served in leadership roles within various organizations. Notably, she served as the Executive Director for West Texas Gifts of Hope, a non-profit dedicated to supporting cancer patients across 18 counties. Her tenure as Director for Discover Odessa at the Odessa Chamber of Commerce further honed her skills in community engagement and collaboration.
Tschauner’s vision for the Shepperd Leadership Institute centers on leveraging its existing programs and forging new partnerships to enrich the educational experience of students and empower the local community. Through initiatives like the Distinguished Lecture Series, leadership training, and collaborative projects such as the Permian Basin Water In Energy Conference, the Institute aims to cultivate a culture of leadership excellence.
In her new role, Tschauner aims to bridge the gap between the university and the broader Permian Basin community. Drawing on her experience in the non-profit sector and her tenure at Discover Odessa, she plans to facilitate meaningful connections between the Institute and local leaders, organizations, and government entities. By aligning the university’s goals with the needs of the region, Tschauner seeks to maximize the Institute’s impact and relevance.
As Tschauner embarks on this new chapter at the Shepperd Leadership Institute, she invites students, faculty, and staff to join her in shaping the future of leadership in West Texas. With her leadership and vision, the Institute is poised to serve as a catalyst for positive change in the Permian Basin and beyond.
