Lone Star College System selected Matthew Dempsey, Ed.D., as the next president of LSC-University Park. Before this announcement, Dempsey served as interim president.

"I am thankful to all those who served on search committees throughout this grueling process.  Out of 175 applicants, they recognized Dr. Dempsey's commitment to students, faculty and staff that makes him a tremendous leader who will take Lone Star College-University Park to the next level," said Mario K. Castillo, LSC chancellor. "We look forward to seeing the campus flourish under his leadership."

Dempsey has 25 years of experience in higher education. He worked in various administrative and instructional positions at Dallas College from 1999 to 2021 and joined LSCS in August 2021 as vice president of Instruction at LSC-CyFair. Dempsey was also a part-time biology instructor for 18 years, showing his commitment to teaching and student learning.

"I am truly honored to serve as president of Lone Star College-University Park. Our students are at the heart of everything we do and I am committed to ensuring they have the support, opportunities and resources they need to achieve their goals," said Dempsey. "This is more than a role—it's a responsibility I take to heart. I look forward to building an even brighter future for our campus and the community we serve."

Dempsey's educational journey began at Saddleback College in California, where he earned an associate of arts degree in English Literature. He graduated from University of California, Los Angeles with a bachelor's degree in English Language and Literature and received a Master of Science degree in Botany/Plant Biology from University of North Texas. Dempsey earned a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration from Texas Tech University.

"Together with our incredible faculty, staff and community partners, Lone Star College-University Park will continue to create an environment where every student can succeed and turn their aspirations into achievements," said Dempsey.

Lone Star College System enrolls over 90,000 students each semester providing high-quality, low-cost academic transfer and career training education. LSCS is training tomorrow’s workforce today and redefining the community college experience to support student success. Mario K. Castillo, J.D., serves as Chancellor of LSCS, the largest institution of higher education in the Houston area and has been named a 2024 Great Colleges to Work For® institution by the Chronicle of Higher Education. LSCS consists of eight colleges, seven centers, eight Workforce Centers of Excellence and Lone Star Corporate College. To learn more, visit LoneStar.edu.