Two deans are among the nine new Howard Payne University faculty members this semester. Dr. Richard Fiese serves as dean of the School of Music and Fine Arts and professor of music, while Alexia Riggs joins HPU as dean of libraries and associate professor of library science.

Dr. Fiese most recently served as professor in music education at Houston Baptist University from 2000 to 2014. Additionally, he has served as associate professor of music education at the University of Miami from 1995 to 2000; associate professor of music education at the University of Houston from 1989 to 1995; and director of bands at Henry L. West Laboratory School in Coral Gables, Fla. from 1986 to 1989. He earned his doctorate from the University of Miami in 1989.

Dr. Les Plagens, dean of HPU’s School of Business, co-chaired the selection committee in the search to fill the position.

“Dr. Fiese brings both depth and breadth in higher education administrative experience to this dean position at HPU,” he said. “He has accomplished a significant body of scholarly activity nationally and has produced an impressive record of service for the music education profession in Texas.”

Alexia Riggs is a 2002 HPU graduate. Her previous experience includes serving as reference librarian at Del Mar College from 2012 to 2014; technical services librarian at Paris Junior College from 2009 to 2012; government document librarian intern at Texas Christian University in 2009; and as a music library assistant at Hardin-Simmons University from 2004 to 2005. She has completed all but her dissertation toward a doctoral degree from Texas A&M University in Corpus Christi.

“Alexia is a wonderful addition to our faculty and we’re delighted that she chose to return to serve her alma mater,” said Dr. W. Mark Tew, provost and chief academic officer.

According to Dr. Tew, choosing those who will serve as leaders among the HPU faculty is a tremendously important task.

“The semester has only just begun and we’re already benefiting from their knowledge, experience and leadership,” he said. “I am deeply appreciative of the faculty and deans who worked tirelessly as members of the search committees that recommended these two extraordinary candidates.”