SPC Dean Selected for Governor’s Task Force
July 22, 2024
In April 2024, St. Philip’s College (SPC) Dean for Academic Success, Health Sciences Christopher Metsgar was selected to serve on the Governor's Task Force on Health Care Workforce Shortages. Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) created this group under the leadership of Gov. Greg Abbott to expand educational opportunities and mitigate barriers for the healthcare workforce.
“Texas is the fastest growing state in the nation, and it is vital that we continue to expand our healthcare workforce to meet the needs of our citizens as we build a bigger, better Texas,” the governor said in a letter to THECB.
Dean Metsgar was placed in the first of three workgroups, and charged with Expanding the Pipeline. Specifically, Workgroup 1 will examine preparation, education, and certification for nurse aids, assistants, and technicians. They will look for ideas to streamline processes that may become barriers and build a comprehensive list of best practices.
“As an educator in San Antonio, having this information aligns the college with state standards and ensures we have a pulse on workforce demands. This insight helps SPC meet the needs of our service area and serve at the forefront of education and training,” said Dean Metsgar.
The workgroups meet monthly from June through September. They will issue a report by October 1, 2024, with recommendations to guide decision-making by the state legislature.
“I’ve dedicated my career to quality education for healthcare. This is another way I can ensure SPC provides effective education and training to the workforce in San Antonio,” said Dean Metsgar.
Source: The Higher Education Coordinating Board