Dr. Kent L. Willis’s focus as a leader is to create engaging and transformative experiences to inspire life-long learning, authentic leadership, and independent scholarship. As the Associate Provost for Institutional Effectiveness, Engagement, and Academic Support at UT Health Science Center Tyler, his focus areas include coordinating institutional effectiveness, faculty development, and academic outreach. Dr. Willis has teaching experience in research methods, leadership, public health communications, and practicum/internship. Additionally, he demonstrates expertise in course design, mentoring/student development, academic affairs, training, and leadership development, creating a unique combination of skills.

His research interests include college and career readiness as well as school-based health promotion and education policy. Dr. Willis is actively involved in research and scholarship, serving as a reviewer for academic journals published by the National Council of Professors of Educational Administration (NCPEA) and the Collaborative Educational Programs for the Americas (CEPA). With a priority of serving the community, Dr. Willis is a Leadership Tyler Class 31 alumni and serves on the board for several local nonprofit organizations.