At the rugged 6,000-acre 3 Rivers Ranch recently gifted to Texas Tech, leaders from the Davis College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources gathered last week for a comprehensive two-day retreat aimed at charting the college’s future. The gathering, titled ‘Pursuit of Prime,’ set the tone for a transformative vision: emphasizing excellence across teaching, research, outreach and philanthropy.
Hosted at the property west of Crowell, the leadership team brought together faculty and administrators to shape the college’s 2030 Strategic Plan. Davis College Dean Clint Krehbiel framed the retreat’s mission throughout the sessions. Part of the agenda focused on strategic planning around teaching and research, with topics ranging from recruitment strategies and online education formats to integrating artificial intelligence into assessment.
Associate Dean for Academic & Student Programs Robert Cox noted that one of their tasks is to prepare students to work with artificial intelligence ethically and effectively. In other action, Associate Dean for Strategic Initiatives & Assessment Darren Hudson reviewed the high points of the Davis College 2030 Strategic Plan, while Associate Dean for Research Noureddine Abidi focused on scholarship productivity, evaluating progress, and faculty mentorship and engagement in research and innovation.
Outreach and engagement, a rising cornerstone of Davis College’s mission, were also center stage. Associate Dean for Outreach & Engagement Erica Irlbeck led the dialogue on building stronger ties with community organizations. Day two shifted toward philanthropy. Keith Oakley, a new fundraising consultant, guided participants through building a culture of giving.
The conversations centered on pragmatic concerns—relationship-building with alumni and industry—but also in the aspirational: creating a new Davis College building that embodies excellence in student success, research and outreach. Concluding the retreat, Linay Williams, Director of Strategic Marketing & Communications, shared plans to streamline communications efforts and strengthen the college’s external presence.
The 3 Rivers Ranch offers tremendous collaborative opportunities for Davis College, and helps cement an established footprint in rural Texas. The property includes living classrooms and laboratories, a pavilion, and lodging for students and faculty. The gift, made last year by Fred Koch, is the largest donation of real estate to the TTU System. A Quanah, Texas, native, Koch is a 1975 graduate of the Texas Tech Health Sciences Center.
CONTACT: Clint Krehbiel, Dean, Davis College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources, Texas Tech University at (806) 742-2808 or Clint.Krehbiel@ttu.edu
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