Shemeka S. Phipps, Residential Life Coordinator for Student Housing and Residential Life, recently received her Ed.D. in Professional Leadership at the University of Houston. 

Dr. Phipps explained that she selected this program due to the faculty members’ expertise in “early literacy, the transition pipeline, professional development, and systems change.” 

She continued, “My research interest aligns with the transition pipeline which focuses on closing the gap in the number of college graduates needed to meet the current workforce demands. My dissertation topic explored the contribution of college intervention programs on first-generation students’ academic success.” 

When asked how this program fit into her current and future career goals, she stated, “The program has added so much value to my professional experience. In my time in the program, I became an author, presented at national and local conferences, and connected with other leaders in the field.  Graduates of the program gain professional development, ethical, interpersonal and intrapersonal skills and are ready to assume leadership positions in a variety of settings. I hope to assume a leadership position where I can support student success in higher education.” 

About Dr. Phipps 

Before arriving at the University of Houston, Dr. Phipps worked at the University of Alabama (UA) in Tuscaloosa, Alabama as a Community Director for Housing and Residential Communities.  

Dr. Phipps has received multiple awards and recognition for her work and volunteer services. Recently, she was nominated for the Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Services New Professional Award and the Individual Tier 1 Customer Service Award. She is the recipient of the Golden Paw Award, Crimson Legacy Award, Outstanding Master's Student in Family Studies Award, Dr. E. Ann Bailey Top Dawg Award, Dr. Ed Granpre Community Builder Award, and Outstanding Leadership Service Award.  

She is also a Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE) and an active member of National Council for Family Relations (NCFR). She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Educational Psychology with a minor in Leadership Studies from Mississippi State University in 2013 and went on to the University of Alabama for a Master of Science degree in Human Environmental Sciences with a specialization in Human Development and Family Studies in 2016. 

The entire SHRL department congratulates Dr. Phipps on this accomplishment.