COLA Announces Department Chair Appointments and Leadership Transition

Friday, May 29, 2026 • Jayce K. Smith : Contact

The University of Texas at Arlington's College of Liberal Arts (COLA) is pleased to announce the appointment of three department chairs who will help lead their respective academic units and support the college's mission of excellence in teaching, research, and service.

Dr. Tim Richardson has been appointed Chair of the Department of English following his service as Interim Chair. A longtime member of the UTA faculty, Richardson has demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting faculty success, advancing student achievement, and fostering a collaborative departmental culture. In his new role, he will continue to guide the department's academic programs while helping shape its strategic direction and future growth.

Dr. Cynthia Laborde has been appointed Chair of the Department of Modern Languages after serving as Interim Chair. An associate professor of French, Laborde brings extensive experience in language education, faculty leadership, and student engagement. Throughout her time at UTA, she has championed interdisciplinary learning and global perspectives while supporting the department's mission of preparing students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

Dr. Chyng-Yang Jang has been appointed Chair of the Department of Communication. A member of the UTA faculty since 2004, Jang is recognized for his expertise in communication technology, digital communication, and community-engaged learning. His research and teaching have helped students navigate the evolving communication landscape while building meaningful connections between academic scholarship and real-world practice. As chair, he will lead one of COLA's largest and most dynamic departments as it continues to innovate and expand opportunities for student success.

"Department chairs play a vital role in advancing our academic mission and supporting faculty and student success," said Dr. Elizabeth Newman, Dean of the College of Liberal Arts. "I am grateful to Drs. Richardson, Laborde, and Jang for their willingness to serve in these important leadership roles. Their experience, dedication, and vision will help strengthen their departments and advance the College of Liberal Arts as a whole."

The appointments also mark a leadership transition within the Department of Communication as Dr. Jang succeeds Dr. Charla Markham Shaw, who is retiring after years of dedicated service to UTA.

Throughout her tenure, Dr. Shaw provided thoughtful leadership to the department while contributing to the academic and professional development of countless students. Her commitment to excellence in teaching, service, and faculty mentorship has left a lasting impact on the department, the college, and the broader UTA community.

"We are deeply appreciative of Dr. Shaw's years of leadership and service," Newman said. "Her dedication to the Department of Communication and the College of Liberal Arts has made a meaningful difference in the lives of students, faculty, and staff. We wish her all the best in her well-earned retirement." 

As COLA continues to advance its strategic priorities, these leadership appointments reflect the college's ongoing commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and student success. The college looks forward to the contributions of Drs. Richardson, Laborde, and Jang as they lead their departments into the future.

The College of Liberal Arts congratulates all three faculty leaders on their appointments and extends its sincere gratitude to Dr. Shaw for her many years of service to UTA.