Sul Ross State University has appointed Kevin W. Badgett, Ed.D., as the new Dean of Education for both Sul Ross State University and Sul Ross State University International, effective July 1.
Dr. Badgett brings more than two decades of experience in education, spanning pre-kindergarten through doctoral levels. He currently serves as a professor and former Faculty Senate President at the University of Texas Permian Basin (UTPB), where he has held a range of leadership roles over the past 13 years including department chair, assistant dean, and charter school superintendent.
“I am excited to be a part of Sul Ross State University and I look forward to partnering with great people from within the university and within its broader communities to strengthen programs, products and services in a way that advances the impact of SRSU and is responsive to the values, perspectives and priorities of those we serve,” said Badgett.
A native Texan, Badgett began his education career in 1998 as a substitute teacher in Southeast Texas. His professional path has included roles as a K-5 music teacher, school counselor, assistant principal, and later, professor of educational leadership. He holds six active Texas educator certifications.
Dr. Badgett earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Pepperdine University in 2000. He later completed a Master of Science in Counseling (2004), a Master of Science in Education Management (2006), and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership (2011), all from the University of Houston-Clear Lake.
During his time at UTPB, Badgett led and supported major initiatives in educator preparation, accreditation, and cross-institutional collaboration. He has nearly 30 peer-reviewed publications and has delivered about 40 presentations at local, state, national, and international conferences. His research includes work on educator retention, school-business partnerships, and education technology, with interest from national education networks such as AdvanceCTE and the Education Alliance.
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Badgett to Sul Ross,” said Provost Bernie Cantens. “He brings a rich and diverse background in both K–12 and higher education, along with a strong record of commitment to educator preparation and student success. His leadership experience will be vital in strengthening and expanding our programs and enhancing our impact across the region and beyond.”
Dr. Badgett and his wife Melissa have two grown children, one grandchild, and another on the way.
