J. Austin Vasek, Ed.D.

Dr. Austin Vasek was educated in the Waco Public Schools and attended St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Waco, Texas.  He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education from Texas Tech University; his Master of Education degree from Tarleton State University; and his Doctor of Education degree from Baylor University.

 Before joining the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor family, Dr. Vasek worked 18 years in the P-12 education environment as teacher, coach, assistant principal, principal, and director of curriculum & instruction.  Dr. Vasek has also served as an adjunct instructor for Tarleton State University, University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, and Baylor University.   He is currently the Director of Graduate Programs in the College of Education at UMHB.  Dr. Vasek’s professional goal is to serve as an educational leader in the higher education environment and to impact his profession through quality partnerships, scholarly research, and meaningful instruction.

 Areas of professional interest for Dr. Vasek include: administrative leadership, instructional leadership, parent involvement, and best practices.  He is a member of Phi Delta Kappa, Pi Lambda Theta, Texas Congress of Parents & Teachers, and the Texas Association for Teacher Educators.  Dr. Vasek also serves on the Board of Directors for Educators Credit Union in Waco, Texas.

 Dr. Vasek and wife Mandy are blessed with a blended family of 5 children – Cole (13), Emily (12), Betsy (11), Taylor (8), and Elena (7).  The Vaseks live in Waco, Texas and attend First Baptist Church of Woodway.