AUSTIN, Texas—Dr. James L. Hill, vice president for community and school relations at The University of Texas at Austin since 2000, has announced his decision to retire, effective Jan. 31, 2007.
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Dr. James L. Hill
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Hill, 77, said he has been looking forward to retirement as an opportunity to spend more time with his family, lower his golf handicap and travel.
“Last year I traveled to China and Japan,” Hill said, noting that he was fascinated by those areas of the world and would like to explore others.
“Vice President James Hill’s work has had an enduring impact on our university’s relationship with underrepresented populations and the local community,” said William Powers Jr., president of the university. “He has forged important and mutually beneficial partnerships with state leaders and key constituencies, and this has helped the university to understand the needs and expectations of our neighbors and fellow citizens.
“The University of Texas at Austin is deeply committed to serving all the people of Texas. For the past 13 years, James Hill has strengthened our dedication to diversity, inclusion and cultural richness. We will continue to build on his good work. He has been a gracious colleague whose presence will be missed.”
“It has been a wonderful experience working at The University of Texas at Austin for the past 13 years, and I am elated to have had the opportunity to serve as the vice president for community and school relations,” said Hill, who was born and raised in east Austin.
“I recall a time in my life that I wanted so much to attend the university, but was legally denied this opportunity,” Hill said. “However, as times changed, I was able to earn my master’s and Ph.D. degrees from this prestigious university. As an Austinite, it’s been an honor for me to be able to help the communities east of IH-35 realize that The University of Texas at Austin is a welcoming environment and open to all students, faculty and staff. I will cherish these unique experiences and accomplishments for the rest of my life.”
Hill, who received his bachelor’s degree from Huston-Tillotson College in 1953, began his education as a high school counselor, mathematics teacher and band director with the Abilene Independent School District. He had served as deputy commissioner with the Texas Education Agency and as director of the southwest field office for Educational Testing Services before becoming an associate vice president for administration and public affairs in 1993 at The University of Texas at Austin. He has been vice president for community and school relations since June 2000.
Hill has received numerous awards as an educator and community leader.
For more information contact: Robert D. Meckel, Office of Public Affairs, 512-475-7847.
