Academic Staff

Dr. John Butler, Dean

John Butler began his journey to the Academy as a private in the U. S. Army in 1987. He left the Army in 1991 after serving as Section Sergeant for a mortar platoon and participating in the Gulf War. Dr. Butler next attended Texas A&M University where he earned a bachelor's degree in aquaculture. He was a member of the Texas A&M trap and skeet team and placed nationally as an international skeet shooter. The Academy recruited him his last semester at Texas A&M as a science teacher. Dr. Butler has taught physical science, biology, biology honors, and physiology/anatomy. Since arriving at the Academy he has earned a masters degree in educational administration, a masters degree in Business Administration and a doctoral degree in curriculum and instruction. Dr. Butler has been awarded the following certifications by the State of Texas: Secondary Science Composite Teaching Certificate, Professional Development and Appraisal System Evaluator, Professional Mid-Management Certificate, and Professional Superintendent Certificate. He is a member of the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals, National Association of Secondary School Principals, Texas Skeet Shooters Association, and National Skeet Shooters Association. Dr. Butler was named Dean of Academics in March 2002.

Mrs. Felicia Carlisle, Registrar

Mrs. Carlisle is a native Texas and very proud of her home state. Except for the six years she and her family lived in Arkansas, Texas has been her home. Previous experiences include: an elementary school secretary in Fort Worth Independent School District, secretary to the Director of Personnel in Fort Smith Independent School District and registrar for Harlingen High School. She joined the staff of MMA in July of 1993. Mrs. Carlisle is a member of the Texas Association for College Admission Counseling. Her interests include: spending valued time with family and friends, reading and attending movies/plays/and drama events.

Mr. Joe Palamara, Assistant Dean / Counselor

Mr. Palamara, a native New Yorker, has spent the last 28 years in Texas. Following graduation from the University of Mary-Hardin Baylor in 1984 with a Bachelor of Science in psychology and sociology, Mr. Palamara taught for five years and completed his Masters in clinical psychology from Mary Hardin-Baylor. During his 25 years in public education, he taught psychology both at the secondary level and college level. For the past 15 years, Mr. Palamara has served as both a regular and special education counselor in school and hospital settings.

Prior to pursuing a career in education, Mr. Palamara served five years in the U.S. Army and seven years as a New York City police officer. Mr. Palamara is married with one son and five granddaughters. Leisure activities include reading, boating, and scuba diving in which he holds over 15 certifications, including open water and rescue diver instructor.

Ms. Amiee Gonzales, Executive Assistant

Ms. Amiee Gonzales is the Academic Department's Executive Assistant. She joined the MMA staff in April 2010.  She assists the Dean, Assistant Dean and Academy Counselor in daily Academic duties.