After a distinguished career spanning five decades in higher education, including more than 25 years as a college president, Galveston College President W. Myles Shelton, Ed.D., announced his retirement Monday at the college’s Fall 2025 General Assembly at the main campus.
 
Shelton, who has served as president of Galveston College since 2007, has been a driving force behind the institution’s academic growth, campus expansion and student success initiatives. Under his leadership, the college has evolved into a dynamic and forward-thinking institution committed to providing quality education and workforce training opportunities to the Galveston Island community and beyond.
 
“Serving Galveston College has truly been one of the greatest honors of my life,” said Shelton. “I am grateful to the Board of Regents, our outstanding faculty and staff, and the entire Galveston community for their unwavering support over the years. Together, we’ve expanded access to higher education, grown our programs, and improved the student experience in countless ways. I am deeply proud of what we have accomplished.”
 
Shelton will continue to serve the college through August 31, 2026, and will assist the Board of Regents in ensuring a smooth transition to ensure continuity and stability.
 
During his tenure, GC achieved several key milestones, including the launch of three bachelor’s degree programs and the expansion of both academic and workforce education programs. His collaborative efforts with the Board of Regents and college leadership team led to the development and opening of two major facilities: the Applied Technology Center in 2013 and the Health Science Education Center, a state-of-the-art, three-story, 64,000-square-foot facility dedicated to training future healthcare professionals was completed in 2024.
 
Other expansion projects completed during Shelton’s presidency include the Abe and Annie Seibel Foundation wing of the Cheney Student Center in 2010 and the Seibel Foundation Student Residences in 2020.
 
In addition to facility growth, Shelton oversaw strategic initiatives that enhanced the college’s technological infrastructure, broadened student support services, and significantly increased the college’s financial resources through careful planning, partnerships and philanthropy. Under his guidance, Galveston College strengthened its role as a vital hub for community and economic development.
“Dr. Shelton’s leadership has left an indelible mark on Galveston College and the many lives touched by the college’s mission,” said Karen Flowers, Chair of the Galveston Community College District Board of Regents. “His vision, commitment to student success and deep respect for education have helped position the college for a strong and sustainable future.”
 
Shelton’s legacy extends beyond the island. He is widely respected across the state for his lifelong dedication to public higher education, having served in multiple leadership roles within Texas community colleges. Shelton also served in leadership roles for various local, regional and state organizations, serving on the boards of the Galveston Economic Development Partnership, the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Texas Association of Community Colleges.
 
“Throughout my tenure, I have been continually inspired by the dedication of our College Board, our faculty, staff and students,” said Shelton. “Their passion and perseverance have made this institution an institution of opportunity and excellence, and a beacon of light for others. I am confident that Galveston College is well-positioned for continued success and growth in the years ahead.”
 

ABOUT GALVESTON COLLEGE

Galveston College was founded in 1967 and is a comprehensive community college providing the residents of Galveston Island and the surrounding region with academic, workforce development, continuing education and community service programs.