(PHOENIX, Ariz., Aug. 27, 2003) – Phoenix College recently selected Wilbert Nelson of Glendale to serve as the Associate Dean of Instruction. Nelson, a social work and sociology instructor at Phoenix College, was currently serving as the Interim Associate Dean of Instruction.

In his new role, Nelson will provide assistance to the Dean of Instruction, respond to student concerns, prepare and submit required reports and provide support to faculty as it relates to instructional needs or concerns. He will also represent the Dean of Instruction Office at the Maricopa Community Colleges District and community meetings when assigned.

Nelson is a veteran educator, with years of experience in teaching at Phoenix College, Ottawa University and Arizona State University. In addition, for 14 years he has practiced in several health agencies including the Arizona State Department of Health, managing and directing various health initiatives and programs.

As an active member within the community Nelson has participated in the following organizations: City of Phoenix Human Services Connection, Maricopa County Victim Compensation Board, Arizona Bar Association Public Member, Maricopa County Area Agency on Aging, Arizona Sickle Cell Society, Maricopa County NAACP President, Arizona State Conference NAACP President, City of Phoenix Model Census Project, Valley Leadership Class VI alumni and MCBAA President.

Nelson remembers the words of Malcolm X as he examines this new endeavor.

"I look upon this position as an extension of a quote from Malcolm X who stated that ‘Education is our passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to the people who prepare for it today.’ My role in this position is to contribute my time, talents, and opportunities to help empower and remove barriers that hinder the educational opportunities for those who come through the doors of Phoenix College and Maricopa Community College District as a whole."

Nelson also holds an Masters in Social Work from Arizona State University, a Bachelors in Social Work from Texas A&M at Commerce and an Associate of Arts from El Centro Community College in Dallas.

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