.png "Kim Dooley Retires After Long Service in Teaching and Leadership")
Bonnie Johnson
July 18, 2025
Media ArticleKim Dooley, Ph.D., a Regents Professor and associate dean for faculty affairs at Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, retires on August 31 after more than 35 years of service.
As a longtime leader in the Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications, Dooley is known for her expertise in distance education, technology in teaching, research methods, and global program development.
She is admired for mentoring both students and faculty. She served as associate dean for academic operations and later for faculty affairs, always focusing on leadership growth and academic success.
“Dr. Dooley has a talent for recognizing the potential of others and helping them succeed,” said Patricia Klein, Ph.D., executive associate dean, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. “She’s made a lasting difference in how we support our faculty and graduate students. We will certainly miss her in the Dean’s office.”
Her teaching career includes leading study abroad courses in Costa Rica and Greece, sharing leadership theories, and supporting the American Farm School in Greece, where she now serves as an honorary trustee.
Over 25 years, Dooley has taught more than 2,000 students and served on 158 graduate research committees, chairing 36. Her research areas include experiential learning, curriculum development, technology in teaching, and community engagement. She is respected for her expertise in qualitative research and often guides students and researchers.
She received awards such as the Texas A&M Distinguished Achievement Award for Graduate Mentoring and the College Teaching Award.
“In my career, everything I’ve learned has prepared me for the next role,” said Dooley. “But mentoring is the theme that is consistent throughout my experiences. I love the faculty and graduate student mentoring the most.
Dooley plans to continue guiding her current students, write a book about her life adventures, volunteer with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, start a leadership role in her church, perform with a rock band, travel, and spend time with her grandson.
Photo by:alec.tamu.edu
