Bill Peters has been named the new executive dean of Des Moines Area Community College’s Newton Campus, the college announced Wednesday. Peters started his new role on July 15. He replaces Joe DeHart, who recently retired from DMACC. Peters served as principal of Newton High School for 20 years before coming to DMACC. “I have worked with DMACC for 20 years as a high school principal and am very familiar with the purpose and mission of the Newton Campus,” Peters said in a prepared statement. “I believe having DMACC in our community is a great benefit and provides enhanced opportunities for students.” Before moving to Newton, Peters served as a teacher and principal at schools in California and Wyoming. Some of his goals at the DMACC Newton Campus include maintaining a good working relationship with the county schools and promoting the growth of adult education to meet the needs of surrounding communities. “[Bill] has played an important role serving the Newton community and has been involved in education and serving students for nearly his entire career. Bill is very well respected in Newton and the surrounding communities and will make a great leader at the DMACC Newton Campus,” Bill LaTour, DMACC vice president of operations, said in a prepared statement. Peters holds a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from the University of Wyoming.