Whitney Longnecker

Whitney Longnecker
Director of Study Abroad
Office of International Affairs

Whitney Longnecker brings an extraordinary rigor to her work with students, faculty, and external providers. She has been tasked with the responsibility of all students studying abroad as well as working with faculty who want to teach TTU students in programs across the globe. This double duty is particularly challenging to even the most experienced leaders. There is a temptation to emphasize student concerns, or to emphasize the practicalities of the travels, but rarely do these things come together in a coherent and inspiring way. It is even more rare for these tasks to be coupled with a deep professional, caring and forward-looking knowledge.  Whitney's ability to balance these needs and to meet critical deadlines for more than 300 programs in 50 countries and 100+ teaching faculty with ease clearly creates a positive and motivating environment for her team and for all those who interact with Study Abroad. Whitney played a critical role in the implementation of Texas Tech University's policies and procedures during the global pandemic.  She actually began tracking COVID-19 as early as January 2020 to follow any potential impact on TTU students who were studying abroad. This early understanding made her invaluable in helping to pivot quickly and oversee the safe return of all students in March. She ensured that the mission and reputation of Texas Tech as a major university was open, responsive, and caring.