Shannon Covert named new Dean of Butler Community College SEM Division

Butler Community College has announced Shannon Covert as the new Dean of its Science, Engineering and Math (SEM) division. Covert had been serving as Interim Dean since the beginning of the year.

Covert earned her Bachelor's degree in Secondary Math Education from Emporia State University and her Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Wichita State University. She also has an ESL endorsement from Kansas State University and a Developmental Education Specialist certificate from Appalachian State University.

Shannon started at Butler in 2007 as an adjunct instructor while still teaching high school and began full time in 2010. She eventually took over as Associate Dean of Academic Support and Effectiveness, where she oversaw Adult Education, Tutoring and Professional Development and helped bring the AVID learning program to Butler.

In 2016 Covert became Associate Dean of STEM, and after several years in supporting roles, she is looking forward to having the top job. “I am excited for the opportunity to continue working with the faculty and staff in this division,” she said. “They are an amazing team to lead.”
Covert’s appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter at Butler. What was once a single Science, Technology, Engineering and Math division now becomes two separate entities, a SEM division and a Career and Technical Education (CTE) division, for which Covert will continue to serve as Interim Dean until a permanent dean is named.

“Shannon is an experienced academic leader that cultivates a culture of collaboration, belonging and inclusivity with students, faculty and staff,” said Vice President of Academics Dr. Tom Nevill. "She has an impressive institutional knowledge of Butler and is an outstanding team player focused on student success.”

Covert says she has always had a passion for math and science, dating back to her childhood spent in the Flint Hills. “My family farmed and ranched. Living that lifestyle, you quickly learn every day is a lesson in science, engineering, and math,” she said. “As the Dean of SEM, I can support programs in the areas I love most.”