Human Development and Family Sciences alumna Corie Garcia harnesses her interpersonal skills to lead students and faculty to success
From first-generation college student at Texas Tech to Dean of Learning Commons at Tarrant County College, Corie Garcia has built her career around people, relationships, and the power of education.
When she arrived at Texas Tech, Garcia knew she wanted to pursue a path that combined her love for communication, behavior, and connection. After talking with her advisors, she discovered the human development and family sciences (HDFS) program—a department that would shape both her professional journey and her leadership style. In 2009, she graduated with her bachelor’s degree in HDFS.
Today, Garcia leads as Dean of Learning Commons at Tarrant County College Northeast Campus in Hurst, Texas. In her role, she oversees the library and learning support services while working closely with faculty to strengthen teaching and learning outcomes.
“I constantly toggle from a very detail-oriented to ‘big picture’ mindset when it comes to overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Learning Commons,” Garcia said. “No day is the same, which I enjoy, and I get to work with administrators, faculty, and staff daily toward how our student services like research instruction, tutoring, peer-led review sessions, academic workshops, Makerspace, and digital resources are provided.”
Garcia credits her HDFS foundation with shaping her “people-first” approach to leadership. She sees that perspective reflected in the student populations she serves each day.
“The students we serve have varied backgrounds and experiences, which plays a key role in how we provide services and assess the impact of the Learning Commons on student success,” Garcia said. “I’m a better communicator, relator, and developer because of the knowledge and skills that I gained from my degree.”
For Garcia, the most rewarding part of her work is helping students believe in themselves and their place in higher education.
“I love seeing students grow in their own path and educational experience,” Garcia said. “My most important work has been centered on empowering students to believe they belong in higher education and providing a support system to help them achieve their goals.”
From her start as a student assistant at Texas Tech to her current leadership as a dean, Garcia is grateful for the opportunities her degree has opened—and she is looking ahead to even greater impact.
“I’m excited to see what the future holds,” Garcia said. “I will begin my work toward a Ph.D. in Higher Education at Texas Tech in the Fall of 2025, and I hope to continue my work in leading organizations to build strong support services that meet students where they are.”