December 2019
D Magazine’s D CEO recently revealed the 500 leaders featured in the 2020 edition of the Dallas 500. The issue includes El Centro College President José Adames as well as Chancellor Joe May, both of the Dallas County Community College District.
Drs. May and Adames were featured among the annual list of the most powerful nonprofit and corporate business leaders in Dallas-Fort Worth.
Under the heading of Education and Healthcare, Dr. May was cited for his leadership role during the passage of the 2019 bond package that secured $1.1 billion for the district and for his work with the Dallas Independent School District’s (DISD) Early College Program.
“As we strive to reduce income disparity, getting more students to enroll and complete college” is one of the toughest challenges of our time, he told the magazine.
Under the same heading, Dr. Adames was cited for his effort to grow his college’s relationship with DISD, saying, “the opportunity gap between high-demand jobs and preparing students to fill those jobs” must be addressed.
Learn more about D CEO's “Dallas 500” and access the entire list.
Joe May
Joe May led Dallas Community Colleges through a 2019 bond package that approved $1.1 billion for the community schools, allowing the development for a new downtown campus for the 160,000-student network. The district is growing quickly, with expanding relationships with Dallas ISD’s Early College Program showing signs of success.
Education: Texas A&M University-Commerce (Ed.D.), Stephen F. Austin University (M.A.-Education, B.S.)
Toughest Challenge: “As we strive to reduce income disparity, getting more students to enroll and complete college.”
Favorite Things: “My tool chest. When I’m away from the office, I enjoy working with my hands.”
Looking Ahead: “I believe that Dallas can be the first city to eradicate childhood poverty caused by income disparity.”
Last Meal: “A rib-eye steak.”
José Adames
Arriving from his post as the dean of academic affairs for Dutchess Community College in New York, José Adames was named the first Hispanic president of El Centro College, DCCCD’s downtown flagship. He has more than 30 years of experience in higher education. A growing relationship with Dallas ISD and a relocation are keeping him very busy.
Education: Columbia University (Ph.D.), Seton Hall University (M.A., B.S.)
Favorite Thing: “One of my favorite things is a replica of a Maya archeological vase.”
Toughest Challenge: “Addressing the opportunity gap between high demand jobs and preparing students to fill these jobs.”
Favorite Sports Team: “New York Yankees”
Last Meal: “Baklava”
Looking Ahead: “El Centro College is in the process of relocating the entire campus to a new location within the Dallas CBD.”