Dana Weiser, Ph.D., plans to increase support for staff and students by utilizing educational and professional experience to foster a supportive and growth-oriented environment.
Dana Weiser, Ph.D., was named the new chair for Human Development and Family Sciences (HDFS). After previously serving as interim chair for the 2021-2022 academic year, Weiser has developed plans to increase student awareness of resources in the department. Weiser is excited to encourage more students to pursue careers in allied health, family life education, and health and human services. She also plans to grow the graduate program along with the professional opportunities offered to graduate students.
“I am excited about leading the HDFS department,” Weiser said. “We have an extremely talented faculty who are leading researchers and exemplary teachers as well as outstanding students.”
Weiser aims to create an inclusive environment where everyone can be their authentic selves and feel part of the HDFS community. She plans to focus more on professional development, mentorships for promotions, and placing a greater emphasis on the well-being of faculty and staff.
“I love the people and spirit of collaboration within the College of Human Sciences,” Weiser said. “I appreciate the cohesion among the different areas in the college and everyone's willingness to help.”
Before joining the Texas Tech community, Weiser worked as a research assistant for the Berger Institute for Work, Family, and Children at Claremont McKenna College, during her undergraduate studies. As a graduate student, she worked as a graduate assistant for the Dean and Associate Dean of Cal State LA Graduate School and as a research assistant for several projects conducted by UNR faculty in HDFS and Cooperative Extension. She taught courses in Human Development and Family Sciences, Psychology, Sociology, and Communication Studies at UNR and Truckee Meadows Community College.
Since joining the Texas Tech community in 2013, Weiser has pursued numerous research interests, led class lectures, and been heavily involved in organizations throughout the university. She is an active faculty affiliate in the Women's and Gender Studies program and serves as chair of the Feminism and Family Science section of the National Council on Family Relations. Her research focuses on how family experiences shape adults' relationship experiences and sexual behaviors. Through her research efforts, vast knowledge, and professional experience, Weiser is excited to foster an environment where everyone feels welcomed and understood.