Dr. Joe D. May is Chancellor Emeritus of Dallas College and a leader in educational transformation. In Dallas, Dr. May’s leadership was pivotal in unifying seven distinct colleges into a singular institution, and his vision gave birth to the Dallas County Promise Program, a significant stride towards democratizing education and providing enhanced support to students navigating the complexities of higher education financing. 

Dr. May served as a Fulbright Scholar in Russia and contributed to various international and non-profit organizations, such as the Global Citizenship Alliance. His tenure at the Louisiana Community and Technical College System was characterized by rebuilding a system that Hurricanes Katrina and Rita devastated, securing essential funding, expanding instructional pathway offerings and nurturing international partnerships. 

Dr. May’s commitment to equitable educational policies and student success led to his role in establishing organizations like Rebuilding America’s Middle Class (RAMC) and advocating for community colleges and their diverse body of students. He was inducted into the Community College Hall of Fame in 2023, recognizing his dedication and transformative contributions to higher education. Dr. May’s career stands as a testament to the power of education as a catalyst for individual and community transformation, and his legacy continues to resonate, creating pathways of academic excellence and community empowerment.