PACS Deans

Dr. Tom Evenson Dean	Dr. David McEntire Associate Dean	Dr. Marcy Haag Interim Assistant Dean

Dr. Tom Evenson, Dean

American philosopher and educator John Dewey believed that education is the key ingredient to producing positive social change and improving people’s lives. He argued that learning must be informed by experience, asserting that “education is not a preparation for life, but is life itself.” The College of Public Affairs and Community Service (PACS) at the University of North Texas exemplifies these principles.

• Research efforts channel the power of ideas into understanding and solving problems that impact our communities
• Learning builds critical thinking skills and prepares students to collaborate to affect change
• Service learning partnerships give students hands-on experience with organizations that are making a difference.

PACS students and faculty tackle some of the biggest problems impacting our quality of life: disaster preparedness, disabilities, access to health care, crime, aging, addictions …

Responding to these problems requires deep understanding of the cultures, social structures, and diversity that exist in our communities. Our diverse faculty and student body reflect many of the communities they serve, and strive together to make the world a better place.

The enduring goal of the College of Public Affairs and Community Service is to broaden its “Circle of Impact.” Our circle will expand because of faculty who strive for research excellence, and who put the success of their students first. The circle expands further through active student learning in the community which leads to committed professionals equipped to make a real difference.

Ultimately, PACS students become proud UNT alumni whose lives leave a legacy of impact and, like the ripple effect, multiply the University’s mission of creating an enriched and sustainable future for people and communities in Texas, in the United States, and in the world.

Now… I invite you to learn more about the College of Public Affairs and Community Service and to join us in expanding the “Circle of Impact.”

Thomas L. Evenson, PhD
Dean