“I wake up every morning pinching myself in disbelief that I’m actually here.”

What started as quiet beginnings on a small-town family farm laid the foundation for becoming dean of Texas Tech University’s Davis College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources.

Growing up, Clint Krehbiel, Ph.D., said he never would have imagined being afforded the opportunity to serve Davis College.

“I’m a central Kansas, small town, class 2A farm kid,” said Krehbiel, who took the helm as Davis College dean in 2023. “I’ve been blessed every step of the way where a door has been opened to me.”

Krehbiel’s formative years unfolded on a diverse farm and ranch near McPherson, Kansas, where he shared cherished moments with his parents and three elder siblings. Their agricultural pursuits included raising purebred Simmental cattle alongside managing a dairy operation and ranch. Throughout his childhood, Krehbiel said he has fond memories of lending a hand to his father when tending to cattle.

“I got some cool early exposure [to agriculture] because of Dad managing that ranch,” Krehbiel said. “It was very influential on me.”

Reflecting on his upbringing, Krehbiel said he attributes his work ethic and determination to the lessons instilled during his childhood. Witnessing the dedication of his parents as they poured countless hours into the farm left an indelible impression, teaching him the essence of hard work and perseverance.

“[My mom] went back to school and then taught, she was passionate about education, and then Dad was just a hard-working father,” Krehbiel said. “That has informed me in a big way, getting to where I am today for sure.”

Krehbiel met his wife, Shelly, in high school and even acted together in their school’s production of “Wizard of Oz.” They married in 1994 and now have three daughters, Madison, Megan, and Emma. Krehbiel said Shelly was with him throughout his career and supported him through his master’s and doctoral studies.

Krehbiel began his journey in academia at Hudson Community College where he began livestock judging. This led to his pursuit of higher education at Kansas State University, where he earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in animal science and industry. Krehbiel earned his doctorate from the University of Nebraska in 1994. His doctoral studies, which focused on animal science with a specialization in ruminant nutrition, added to his expertise and laid the groundwork for his career in academia and research.

While education has always been important to Krehbiel, he said his family takes precedence over everything. When he and Shelly have time to spare, they enjoy spending it with their daughters who are now spread out.

“A majority of our free time is devoted to family,” Krehbiel said.

Krehbiel’s love for his family carries into the family environment fostered within Davis College. He said he has a passion for creating relationships with people at Davis College, which started from the time he was young.

“I think it has a lot to do with my upbringing,” Krehbiel said. “If I’m a servant and elevating others, the whole college is going to rise.”

Combining his passions for education and agriculture has allowed Krehbiel to step into the position of dean of Davis College with immense experience and vision for the future.

“Just because of who Tech is and the people and culture here, it just feels like such a great fit for me,” said Krehbiel. “I’m super excited to be here.”

Olivia Moore, Lead Writer; Kadyn Collins, Photo Director; Jenne Arrott, Design Coordinator; Kloe Walker, Digital and Advertising Manager