Texas Tech’s J.T. & Margaret Talkington College of Visual & Performing Arts’ dean
has become the international organization’s next leader.
CREATORS
Texas Tech University’s Martin Camacho, dean of the J.T. & Margaret Talkington College of Visual & Performing Arts, became president of the International Council for Arts Deans (ICfAD) today (Oct.
7) during the organization’s 62nd annual conference.
“Martin will be an excellent representative of Texas Tech, and I know he will serve
his fellow deans with integrity, respect and thoughtful leadership,” said Ron Hendrick, provost and senior vice president. “I look forward to all that ICfAD will accomplish
under his leadership”
Martin Camacho
As president, Camacho said his priority is to strengthen the organization and expand
the support it provides to members. When Camacho joined ICfAD in 2014, he had just
been appointed as dean of the Fain College of Fine Arts at Midwestern State University, part of the Texas Tech University System.
“It was the first time I’d joined an organization dedicated to helping deans,” Camacho
said. “I realized there were so many people around the country – even around the world
– who were extraordinary leaders with great ideas about advancing the arts. My membership
with ICfAD became inspirational.”
Over the next decade, Camacho served on the organization’s board, chaired multiple
committees, and played an integral role in ICfAD’s international symposiums in Cuba
and Mexico, countries where he has several academic connections. Last year, he moved
on to the administrative track to become president.
“Martin has already demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to ICfAD and to the community
of arts leaders it serves,” said James Frazier, outgoing president and dean of the
Florida State University College of Fine Arts. “He is a thoughtful and generous leader
who brings intellectual curiosity, a collaborative spirit and a deep commitment to
serve in everything he does. I am delighted he will be the organization’s next president.”
The human connection ICfAD fosters has become significant to Camacho.
With changes in artificial intelligence, legislative funding decisions and enrollment
trends, Camacho says he sees both challenges and opportunities ahead. But more than
anything, he sees lasting demand for what the arts provide.
“Human connection will always be needed,” he said. “Our world is becoming more technology-driven,
but the need for creativity will not go away. That’s human nature, and the arts are
the perfect instrument for that.”
Camacho credits Texas Tech with supporting his leadership journey, and sees his recent
appointment as a statement about the university.
“Texas Tech recognizes the value of positioning a representative for the arts in a
national organization,” he said. “It sends a signal that the arts are relevant at
Texas Tech and are making an impact at the individual, institutional and community
levels.”
About ICFAD
Founded in 1964, ICfAD brings together deans, directors, chairs and other arts executives
from colleges and universities across North America and around the world. The organization
mentors emerging leaders and advocates for the essential role of the arts in higher
education.