Kristi Gaines, Ph.D. serves in new role as the Graduate School’s Associate Dean for Student Affairs

Congratulations to Kristi Gaines, Ph.D. for her recent appointment as Associate Dean for Student Affairs in the Graduate School at Texas Tech. Prior to her selection as Associate Dean for Student Affairs, Dr. Gaines served for 6 years as the Department of Design (DOD) Director of Graduate Programs.

In her new role, Dr. Gaines is responsible for coordinating professional and career development programs for graduate students and postdoctoral scholars.

Dr. Gaines works collaboratively with other leadership members in the Graduate School to advocate for graduate education. Her team works to ensure that all aspects of the Graduate School is top-notch and effective in order to push forward the Graduate School's mission.

Dr. Gaines says her appointment in the role was unexpected, but is a challenge that is very rewarding on a team where opportunities for learning are endless.

"I love working with graduate students to help them reach their goals," Dr. Gaines said. "The Graduate School administration and staff work as a team to achieve this purpose, and I am so privileged to work with them!"

Vice Provost for Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs and Dean of the Graduate School Mark Sheridan, Ph.D. says he is excited to have Dr. Gaines on their team.

"Dr. Gaines has a deep and long-standing commitment to the success of graduate students and I'm delighted that she has joined the Graduate School as Associate Dean."

Outside of the Graduate School, Dr. Gaines teaches in the classroom as an Associate Professor in Interior and Environmental Design in the College of Human Sciences' (COHS) Department of Design (DOD).

Dr. Gaines continues to serve in her new role with admiration for the team she is on, each working to serve the graduate students at Texas Tech University.