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Dr. Marilyn Dardenne has had a long and successful career in teaching and education leadership that spans higher education and K-12 education. She started her professional teaching career as a lecturer in the Communications department at Texas A&M University. Her role in K-12 education has included technology teacher, technology coordinator, assistant principal, principal and head of school. Dr. Dardenne's educational research and her experience as a school evaluator have included schools and education systems around the world and across the United States. She is a firm believer that no education is whole or complete unless it is based on a Christ-centered, biblical worldview.

In Dr. Dardenne’s role as Director of Academic Innovation at TCA, she will take a comprehensive look at our teaching and learning practices, identify areas of strength for us to continue, as well as areas for growth and propose new academic initiatives to continue moving us forward with best teaching and learning practices in order to optimize the student academic experience. This opportunity for Dr. Dardenne and for TCA is made possible by a generous grant from a local education support foundation.

Dr. Dardenne says that this opportunity at TCA is very special to her because it enables her to keep learning and to share the valuable lessons she has learned over 30-plus years as a Christian educator. "I am so grateful for the leadership team here and for the exceptional dedication of our teachers. I look forward to seeing how the Lord grows us now and leads us into the future."

Dr. Dardenne is married to Tom, is a mother of four, and a grandmother of six. She enjoys competitive trail riding with her equine partner, Ranger;  hiking with her favorite canine, Hank; and gardening when she is not at work.