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Q&A: Keiffer Credits UT Tyler for Success in Academia

UT Tyler alumnus Dr. Greggory Keiffer of Sugar Land graduated in fall 2017 with a Ph.D. in human resource development and teaches as a full-time faculty member at Houston Baptist University. He was recently appointed interim dean of HBU’s Archie W. Dunham College of Business. Read more about Keiffer and why he credits UT Tyler for his successful launch in academia.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I serve at Houston Baptist University and have been at the university full-time since the start of the fall 2017 semester. I began adjunct teaching at HBU in spring 2017 while still working in the corporate world. Before being appointed interim dean, I taught a full load in the management department and was the director for the Master of Science in human resource management program.

Describe your educational journey. . .how did you discover UT Tyler?

My educational journey is fairly typical and echoes many colleagues’ journeys from UT Tyler. I earned a BBA in ’96 and MBA in ’97 from HBU (yes same as the current job) and worked corporate (marketing and advertising) for a couple of decades. In 2013, I began to explore career options. Ironically, I was recruiting for interns at an HBU career fair and ran into an old professor. We struck up a conversation, and he provided insight into what a career in academia was like. This conversation was the catalyst to begin searching for a doctoral program and to eventually change into an academic career. The career change happened much quicker than I anticipated, and I was hired on with HBU as ABD with the expectation I would complete and defend my dissertation.

The university decided to make a leadership change for the Dunham College of Business between academic years. The provost called and asked that I consider the appointment to interim dean. After he described his expectations and reasoning, I accepted the position. The transition has been a smooth and wonderful experience.

What did you like about the Soules College of Business?

I liked that the Ph.D. in HRD program was a “real” doctoral program with high expectations, robust coursework, research opportunities, seasoned faculty and a collaborative environment. Each professor brought a unique personality, sets of interests and talents into the mix. It is from this cross section where the student gains the most value and insight.

Who was your favorite professor, and why?

I never had the honor of sharing a class with Dr. Paul Roberts as professor, but he was a central figure at the AHRD research conferences, on campus, and as a member of my dissertation committee. Dr. Roberts’ kind demeanor, consistency, and willingness to engage in conversation always impressed me. So, Dr. Roberts is my favorite professor who I never had as a professor in class. Dr. Kim Nimon is my favorite professor – Dr. Nimon served as my dissertation chair and as professor for four quantitative classes. I would not have earned the degree without her and for that, I am forever grateful. Thank you, Kim!

How did UT Tyler prepare you for a successful career?

I think there are two major factors. First, the HRD department is housed within the Soules College of Business. It’s one of the few if not only Ph.D. HRD programs housed within a national business college. This means a great deal from a faculty credentials perspective when seeking employment. The second factor was the ability to work so closely and frequently with the amazing HRD faculty. Their reach and influence with the students went beyond the classroom. Their willingness to expose students to research opportunities and conferences was key.

What advice do you have for current UT Tyler students?

For both current and prospective students, I would say approach your education experiences as a journey and be sure you have a strong and supportive network of friends and family.

What are your hobbies/interests?

Just about any outdoor activity. I also enjoy restoring and driving fourth generation GM F-Bodies. 

Anything else you'd like to add?

My wife Stacie and I have two children: Grant and Claire, and we just added a new puppy to the family named Penny. We live an hour from the coast, so we do a lot of boating, fishing and sailing together as a family. My wife is an active mixed media artist in the local community, so we attend “artsy” events, too. My parents, my wife’s parents and my wife’s sister and her family all live within a few miles. Family gatherings are frequent and easy!

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