SPC Names Dr. Narayan Thapa as Dean for Academic Success, Arts & Sciences

St. Philip’s College has appointed Dr. Narayan Thapa as Dean for Academic Success, Arts & Sciences, effective March 16, 2026.

Prior to joining St. Philip’s College, he served at Dallas College as the founding dean and chair of academic affairs for the School of STEM, where he also oversaw the mathematics department.

Dr. Thapa brings nearly 30 years of experience in higher education, specializing in academic leadership, mathematics education, and student success initiatives. He has integrated industry-recognized credentials into gateway mathematics courses, led comprehensive curriculum restructuring, streamlined course scheduling to promote equity and access, and contributed to developing a workforce-aligned Bachelor of Arts in Technology program. His work also includes overseeing accreditation preparation, implementing undergraduate research and faculty-led seminars, securing funding to support retention and graduation, directing large-scale faculty recruitment, coordinating thousands of course sections annually, designing project-based learning courses, and driving consistent enrollment growth through program innovation and targeted student support.

Dr. Thapa earned his Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics from the University of Oklahoma. He also holds a Master of Education in Instructional Leadership and Academic Curriculum from the University of Oklahoma and a Master of Arts in Mathematics from the same institution. Prior to his studies in the United States, he completed a Master of Science in Mathematics at Tribhuvan University in Kathmandu, Nepal, and a Bachelor of Science in Physics, Statistics, and Mathematics.

As dean, Dr. Thapa will oversee multiple departments, including Communication & Learning, Mathematics & Engineering, Natural Sciences, Fine Arts & Kinesiology, Social and Behavioral Sciences, High School Programs, the Center of Excellence in Science, and the Center for Excellence in Math. In this role, he will spearhead initiatives to enhance student success, support faculty development, and drive academic program growth.

“As the first high school and college graduate in my family, I have experienced firsthand the challenges of balancing school, multiple jobs, and family responsibilities. I firmly believe education is a key to success. My focus has been on collaborating with key college stakeholders to expand access, strengthen student support, and create opportunities so every learner has a clear pathway to success,” said Dr. Thapa.