Clint Krehbiel, Davis College dean, said the dedication and expertise of faculty and staff have been fundamental in the growth of the college.
“Their commitment to excellence, innovative teaching, and authentic caring inspires students and cultivates an environment where both academic and community engagement can thrive,” Krehbiel said. “Davis College faculty and staff engage students through practical experiences, which ignites their passion for agriculture, natural resources, and landscapes, it empowers them to envision their future, ultimately attracting motivated individuals who are eager to contribute to our programs.”
A Pillar of Davis College
For more than 20 years, Julann Curlee has played an essential role in the Davis College. As the executive associate to the college dean, Curlee has become a key part of the daily operations, ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.
“I’m in charge of making sure the dean gets to where he needs to be, and knows where he’s going,” Curlee said. “I manage his calendar, oversee the promotion and tenure process, and handle his travel. I also help with travel and meeting coordination for some of the other associate deans and directors.”
Curlee started working part-time at Texas Tech in 2002 as she balanced work with raising children. Over the years, she said she steadily took on more responsibilities. In 2012, after the previous executive associate retired, Curlee transitioned to a full-time role.
“I’ve been here for 23 years now, and the college has grown tremendously,” she said. “When I first started, there were only about seven staff members in our office. Now we have about 30, including administrators, and we are out of space. It’s been exciting to see the college grow and thrive.”
One of the key aspects of Curlee’s job has been overseeing the promotion and tenure process. She said it’s a responsibility she takes seriously, knowing how pivotal it is for faculty members’ careers. Curlee helps guide professors through the complex process, from third-year reviews to their final promotion to tenure.
“There’s a lot of paperwork involved in promotion and tenure,” Curlee said. “Faculty members need to prepare a dossier that includes their annual evaluations, letters of recommendation from peers at other universities, and their full curriculum vita, etc. I help make sure they meet all the necessary deadlines and requirements.”
Curlee said she recognizes the support she provides faculty has a significant impact on their careers.
It’s fulfilling to know Davis College helped provide the right resources for their success.
Julann Curlee
“I’ve seen faculty members go from being reserved and quiet to becoming confident leaders after going through the promotion process,” she said. “One faculty member went on to become the interim dean, and then a Vice Provost, it was incredible to see her grow.”
Maeley Stroupe, assistant director for student success and retention, said she has always had support from Curlee since she started working in the Davis College dean’s office as a graduate student.
“Through every milestone of my professional and personal life, she has celebrated with me and has made me feel valued and appreciated,” Stroupe said. “It’s been such a blessing to witness the impact she makes in every person she interacts with, in every coworker she works with, and in every project that she leads or assists.”
Curlee said she also takes pride in watching students succeed.
“It’s always great to see our students go on to do amazing things,” she said. “We have had several of our student assistants intern with agricultural organizations and were able to land great jobs with leading ag companies after graduation. It’s fulfilling to know Davis College helped provide the right resources for their success.”
Though Curlee’s work can be demanding, she said she finds fulfillment in the impact it has on the college’s faculty and students.
“I love seeing our faculty win awards,” she said. “I’m part of the process of making sure their nominations get submitted, and it’s wonderful to see their hard work recognized.”
The fall semester, however, is her busiest time of the year.
“I’m in charge of the Fall Faculty Assembly, a dinner, an advisory board meeting—all within a two-day period,” Curlee said. “It’s a lot of work leading up to that, and then once the semester begins, I focus on the awards process, ensuring faculty submit all their necessary documents.”
Despite the workload, Curlee said the people she works with are what make her job truly rewarding.
“The people here are amazing,” she said. “It’s the best place to work. The faculty, the students, the staff—they make Davis College a wonderful place. I’ve always said it’s a little utopia over here.”
Managing Millions
For the last four years, Laci Hardman has been the senior director of finance and administration for the Davis College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources.
“I manage all of the college’s state funds, donor funds, research accounts, startup funds, differential tuition, and more,” Hardman said. “It’s a lot of money moving a lot of directions, and my job is to help make sure we’re doing it right.”
Hardman came to the Davis College in 2020 after a decade working in the College of Human Sciences. A Texas Tech alumna herself, said she was drawn to Davis College by its culture and people.
“I grew up in a small town, and this college reminded me of that,” Hardman said. “Everyone here is friendly, welcoming, and hardworking. It felt like home.”
Since stepping into her role, Hardman has taken major responsibilities – not just managing nearly $22 million in funding each year, but also helping departments navigate grant processes, faculty startup packages, and complex university policies.
“Helping faculty understand the restrictions on certain types of funding is a big part of what I do,” Hardman said. “Some accounts have very specific rules, and it’s important that we follow them closely while still giving our departments the tools they need.”
Getting out of the office and visiting the Davis College research farms, centers, and classrooms to better understand the work she’s supporting is something Hardman does regularly.
“I think it’s important to see where the money goes and what it’s actually doing,” Hardman said. “It helps me make better decisions and be a better resource for out faculty and staff.”
Cindy Akers, Ed.D., vice provost for Administrative Affairs said Hardman’s work ethic and precision have had a lasting impact.
“Laci has provided incredible support in so many ways,” Akers said. “She’s been a constant resource for every department business manager in the college – creating trainings, developing policies, and helping establish consistency in our bookkeeping practices.”
Hardman said one of her most rewarding projects has been helping turn around Raider Red Meats financial situation. With the support of college leadership and a partnership with United Supermarkets, the program now operates with a strong financial footing.
“I like fixing things and making the work better,” Hardman said. “It’s exciting when you can look back and see real progress.”
Days often filled with meetings, budget planning, and problem-solving, Hardman said what motivates her most is knowing that her work directly supports faculty and students.
“At the end of the day, it’s about helping people do their jobs and helping students succeed,” Hardman said. “That’s what makes all the numbers worth it.”
Hardman said she’s grateful for the relationships she’s built and the chance to contribute to a place that means so much to her.
“There’s just something special about Davis College,” she said. “It’s a great place to be, and I’m proud to be a part of it.”
PSS Problem Solver
Robby Carlson has a significant role in the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences. As the IT Program Manager, Carlson is involved in maintaining the department’s infrastructure, overseeing projects, and ensuring the facilities are always ready to support students, faculty, and staff.
“I’m responsible for a lot of the operational side of things, from managing the buildings and facilities to overseeing construction and renovation projects,” Carlson said. “My role ensures that we have the right technology for students and faculty to thrive. We’ve had a lot of growth over the years, and it’s exciting to see the college continue to expand and meet the needs of our community.”
Carlson’s career at Texas Tech began in 2000 when he joined the staff as IT Technician for Institutional Advancement. Known for his work ethic and attention to detail, he took his current role with PSS in 2002. Throughout his tenure, Carlson has played a key role in supporting the college’s growth by ensuring its technology keeps pace. As IT manager, he has overseen several key research institutes and facilities, helping maintain and advance the technological backbone that supports the college’s expanding mission.
“We’ve had a lot of new buildings and spaces added, and I’ve been a part of managing those projects,” Carlson said. “From research labs to classrooms to student spaces, each of these projects plays a role in providing the resources that make Texas Tech a place of excellence in agriculture and natural resources.”
The processes involved in Carlson’s work is often behind the scenes, but the impact of his contributions is noticeable throughout the college. He said he works closely with the administration to ensure that the college’s physical spaces align with its academic and research goals.
“When you look at the growth of the college, it’s incredible,” Carlson said. “When I first started, it wasn’t nearly as big. We’ve added so much, and now the college has an amazing collection of resources that support both teaching and research. It’s really fulfilling to be part of that transformation.”
Carlson’s pride in the college’s expansion is evident. Overseeing major renovation projects, such as updating classrooms, labs, and student spaces, has been especially rewarding, he said.
“The facilities play a huge role in the learning environment,” Carlson said. “When students and faculty have access to the right resources, they can focus on what’s really important—their work. Whether it’s a new lab for research or a renovated classroom, these spaces help improve the experience for everyone who uses them.”
Glen Ritchie, professor of crop physiology and J.A. Love endowed chair of PSS , said Carlson is vital to the success of the department.
“Without Carlson’s expertise in computers, networks, and other technology, we would be unable to provide the high-quality classroom and online education, nor would we be successful in research,” said Ritchie.
“He is also an unsung hero when it comes to inventory management,” Ritchie said. “Our department deals with hundreds of items worth several million dollars, and Mr. Carlson keeps track of all of it. His contributions to PSS and the Fiber and Biopolymer Research Institute are a major component of our success.”
Looking forward, Carlson said he is excited for what is to come.
“I’ve always said that the best part of this job is the people I work with,” Carlson said. “The team here is incredible, and we’re all dedicated to helping the college succeed. Whether it’s construction, renovation, or just making sure everything runs smoothly day-to-day, we’re all working toward the same goal—creating a better future for our students and faculty.”
As the college continues to grow, Carlson said his role will remain essential in ensuring that its facilities continue to meet the evolving needs of Texas Tech’s community. With more projects and developments in the work, he said he is eager to see how the college continues to thrive.
“It’s been amazing to be part of this college’s journey over the years,” Carlson said. “There’s always something new to look forward to, and I’m excited to see where the future takes us. The work we’re doing now will help shape the experiences of students and faculty for years to come.”
Clint Krehbiel, Davis College Dean, said exceptional faculty and staff are the driving force behind Davis College.
“Great faculty and staff are the heartbeat of Davis College, fostering a student-centered culture where curiosity blossoms, collaboration thrives, and the thought-leaders of tomorrow are developed and grown,” Krehbiel said. “Our college is steadfast in its commitment to continuously pursuing excellence, inspiring innovation, fostering growth, and cultivating a community where every achievement propels us toward a sustainable and impactful future for the people and West communities we serve.”
Photos by Kreed Kotara, Catherine Payne, & Jacob O’Toole