Texas Tech eLearning AVP Honored as Top Twenty Under 40

By Michael Rodriguez, Graduate Assistant

Texas Tech University was more than well-represented in the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce 2021 Top Twenty Under 40, with four of 20 honorees currently employed at the university. The office of eLearning and Academic Partnerships was thrilled to learn Clay Taylor, Ed.D., earned this honor for his dedication.

Taylor is the assistant vice provost for Texas Tech eLearning and Academic Partnerships, overseeing the Office of Continuing and Professional Education. He provides direct oversight of continuing education and event management, professional education, and communications with other Texas Tech sites, such as the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, TTU's Center at Junction, and TTU's Professional Education and Academic Advising Office at Jefferson.

In addition, Taylor is responsible for the high school partnership units, which include OnRamps and the Estacado Early College High School. He oversees the Recruitment and Partnerships unit, including the Office of Academic Agreements, Texas Tech University at Brownwood, and recruitment responsibilities for TTU K-12, Worldwide eLearning and regional sites.

As a graduate of the 2018 President's Leadership Institute at Texas Tech, Taylor serves on many committees and task forces representing the division. He is active in numerous professional associations, having presented research at conferences and meetings representing Texas Tech.

Taylor also is an adjunct professor in the College of Education, having earned his doctorate in higher education administration from Texas Tech. He can usually be found teaching one or two graduate level courses a semester.

Jared Lay, director of Recruitment and Partnerships, who attended the Lubbock Chamber event and works in eLearning with Taylor, was not surprised by the honor.

"This event had a large turnout, and we were glad Dr. Taylor was recognized for this great achievement,” Lay said. “He approaches work like a puzzle and looks for the best way to make everything fit. He works with several departments and always has an open door to listen or offer advice to anyone. I think he has made an impact on Texas Tech University and will continue to grow his departments to the betterment of Texas Tech. From his work, students, parents, administrators, faculty, and alumni, all have benefited.”

Texas Tech eLearning and Academic Partnerships is proud to have Taylor as a leader, providing dedication and inspiration that is so imperative to the office's success.