WT Business Office Announces Three Promotions

Copy by Chip Chandler, 806-651-2124, cchandler@wtamu.edu

CANYON, Texas — Two veteran West Texas A&M University administrators have been promoted to new positions, and the WT Bookstore has a new manager.

Beginning June 1, Warren Pitt, previously the assistant vice president for human resources, will serve as the assistant vice president for budget.

Stepping into his role in HR is Pam Young, who previously served as director of human resources and Equal Employment Opportunity officer.

Pitt, who earned bachelor’s degrees in management and accounting from WT, began his career at WT in January 2022 after a career spent in auditing and human resources.

“My career aspirations were to be an accountant, but my career took a detour,” Pitt said. “I still have a passion for numbers, and this opportunity will take me back to my roots in finance.”

Pitt will take a position previously held by Shelly McCune, who will retire after working at WT for about 30 years.

Young, who joined WT in December 2022, has worked for years in human resources and risk management.

“My hope for the future is to see WT become the employer of choice for the Canyon/Amarillo area by promoting a positive workplace culture,” Young said. “With more than 30 years serving in leadership roles and the last 13 years as a human resources professional, I’m passionate about building relationships and helping others succeed.”

Both Pitt and Young are strong leaders, said Randy Rikel, vice president for business and finance.

“Warren is a change agent and that has been very evident with his leadership in the human resource office over the last three years. Warren is very organized, thoughtful and his proven record in HR will be an addition to the budget office,” Rikel said. “Pam has been a great addition to our HR team who has championed new ideas like employee health wellness fairs, has led volunteer groups, and has contributed to the positive culture of our HR team.”

Additionally, Paige Nelms has been promoted to manager of the University Bookstore effective May 1 following the retirement of longtime manager Terry Nepper after more than 20 years.

“Being the manager at the WT Bookstore is more than just overseeing operations, it’s about serving the heart of the university community,” Nelms said. “To me, this role means being a reliable resource for students, faculty and staff ensuring they have access to materials and support they need. It’s about creating a welcoming environment where people feel valued and taken care of.”

Nelms joined the bookstore in May 2024 as the manager for general merchandise.

“In Paige’s time at WT, she has brought in great ideas for the University Bookstore and established a great rapport and leadership with the bookstore team and the University as a whole,” Rikel said.

Recruiting, retaining and rewarding excellent employees is a key component of the University’s long-range plan, WT 125: From the Panhandle to the World.

That plan is fueled by the historic One West comprehensive fundraising campaign, which reached its initial $125 million goal 18 months after publicly launching in September 2021. The campaign’s new goal is to reach $175 million by 2025; currently, it has raised more than $165 million.

About West Texas A&M University

WT, a Regional Research University, is redefining excellence in Canyon, Texas, on a 342-acre residential campus, as well as the Harrington Academic Hall WTAMU Amarillo Center in downtown Amarillo. Established in 1910, the University has been part of The Texas A&M University System since 1990. WT, a Hispanic Serving Institution since 2016, boasts an enrollment of more than 9,000 and offers 66 undergraduate degree programs, including eight associate degrees; and 44 graduate degrees, including an integrated bachelor’s and master’s degree, a specialist degree and two doctoral degrees. The University is also home to the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, the largest history museum in the state and the home of one of the Southwest’s finest art collections. The Buffaloes are a member of the NCAA Division II Lone Star Conference and offers 14 men’s and women’s athletics programs.

Photo: Recently promoted staff and administrators at West Texas A&M University include, from left, Pam Young, Paige Nelms and Warren Pitt.

—WT—