Courtney Graham is a dynamic higher education professional and executive leader with over six years of experience in academic administration, student success, and organizational development. Currently serving as the Director of Academic Affairs at Tarrant County College – Northeast Campus, Courtney has established a reputation for her expertise in strategic planning, data-driven decision-making, and developing innovative solutions to elevate academic performance. Her career has been marked by a commitment to cultivating inclusive environments where faculty, staff, and students can thrive, focusing on fostering a culture of growth, integrity, and lifelong learning. Driven by her passion for student success and organizational excellence, Courtney aims to leave a lasting impact on the institutions and lives she touches.
In her role at Tarrant County College, Courtney oversees critical aspects of academic affairs, including enrollment initiatives, curriculum development, and compliance with work-based learning standards. Her data-centric approach allows her to provide valuable insights and recommendations to senior leadership, ensuring that strategies are aligned with institutional goals and that student retention and success remain a top priority. Acting as an advisor to the Vice President of Academic Affairs, Courtney’s role also involves guiding strategic initiatives that enhance operational efficiency and support faculty and student engagement.
Courtney’s previous experience at the University of North Texas at Frisco further shaped her approach to academic leadership. As Program Director for Academic Success & Retention, she managed retention initiatives, spearheaded the development of co-curricular programming, and led efforts to optimize course scheduling and student support resources. Her work at UNT Frisco highlighted her ability to drive workforce transition initiatives and collaborate effectively across departments. Under her leadership, retention strategies and student support systems improved, creating a more supportive learning environment that promotes student growth and engagement.
In addition to her administrative roles, Courtney has served as an adjunct faculty member at both the G. Brint Ryan College of Business and the College of Applied and Collaborative Studies at UNT, teaching courses that emphasize professional development and growth strategies. Her teaching philosophy focuses on creating a collaborative learning environment where students are encouraged to think critically, develop real-world skills, and engage meaningfully with course content. Courtney integrates her experience in curriculum development and strategic planning into her teaching, bringing practical insights and a strong foundation in project-based learning to her classrooms.
Courtney’s background includes a Master’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of North Texas, where she concentrated on curriculum development for project-based learning, and a Bachelor of Science in Corporate Communications from Southeast Missouri State University. Committed to professional growth, she has earned an Executive and Life Coaching Certification from the Jay Shetty Certification School. This certification, accredited by the Association for Coaching, equips Courtney with advanced coaching techniques to support and guide individuals in reaching their personal and professional goals.
Throughout her career, Courtney has demonstrated a talent for strategic planning, problem-solving, and relationship-building. Her leadership roles at UNT Frisco included managing the Academic Success & Retention department and chairing the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council. By fostering an inclusive environment, Courtney has contributed to a culture of mutual respect and collaboration, which she views as essential for both individual and institutional success. Her dedication to equity and inclusion is reflected in her commitment to developing policies and practices that serve all members of the academic community.
Courtney’s expertise in emerging technologies and enrollment management positions her as a forward-thinking leader in higher education. She continually seeks out new tools and resources to enhance operational efficiency and improve the student experience. Her ability to leverage technology and data for strategic decision-making has proven invaluable in meeting the evolving demands of today’s educational landscape. With her proactive approach, Courtney is well-prepared to lead initiatives that drive growth and promote innovation within academic settings.
Courtney’s personal interests align closely with her professional values. She is deeply passionate about causes such as arts and culture, children, civil rights, social action, education, and health. Her commitment to these causes underscores her desire to make a positive impact not only within academic institutions but also in the broader community. As a certified life coach and former competitive dancer, Courtney brings a unique perspective on discipline, resilience, and personal growth to her professional life.
As a leader, Courtney embodies a philosophy of empowering others and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. She is committed to inspiring her team to achieve their full potential and instilling a sense of purpose in all aspects of her work. Her dedication to creating positive change, combined with her focus on strategic development and innovation, defines her as an influential figure in higher education leadership.
Character:
Courtney is known for her integrity, empathy, and commitment to fostering inclusive environments that support the growth and well-being of faculty, staff, and students. She brings a strong sense of purpose to her leadership, focusing on empowering others and driving positive change within academic settings.
Knowledge:
With extensive expertise in higher education administration, Courtney excels in curriculum development, project-based learning, and retention strategies. Her understanding of the higher education landscape allows her to implement effective, innovative solutions that align with institutional goals and student needs.
Strategic:
Courtney’s strategic approach is rooted in data-driven decision-making and proactive planning, which have significantly enhanced academic performance and operational efficiency in her roles. She consistently implements forward-thinking strategies that support student success and drive institutional growth.
Communication:
Known for her collaborative and approachable leadership style, Courtney excels in building strong relationships and communicating effectively across diverse teams. Her focus on open dialogue and engagement enables her to align stakeholders and inspire her team toward shared goals.
