Dr. Tamika Harrel, the new dean of students and associate vice president for student affairs at Arkansas Tech University, felt at home on her new campus before she was even hired.
“When I interviewed, it did not feel like an interview at all,” said Harrel. “It felt conversational and I felt at home. Everyone was very friendly and open. It felt like I had worked with them for years. When I got to campus, I loved the outlook. It felt very cozy and homey. I knew I could bring my family here, I could work here…and when I met a much larger group of people…it stuck out to me how welcoming Arkansas Tech is. That’s what really drew me in to this place. These people are amazing, this place is amazing and I wanted to be a part of that.”
Harrel began her new role at Arkansas Tech on Monday, Nov. 3.
She earned her Bachelor of Science in Education degree from Missouri Southern State University, her Master of Education degree from Southern University and her Doctor of Psychology degree from the University of Arizona Global Campus.
After beginning her career as head softball coach and instructor at Coffeyville Community College, Harrel transitioned to student affairs work. She served as coordinator of compliance at Coffeyville before moving on to become Title IX coordinator and later dean of students at Missouri Southern.
“What’s important for me in this role is helping students understand beyond Arkansas Tech University,” said Harrel. “What’s next after your time as a student here, and how can I and my colleagues help you become a professional who is going to go out in the world and make a difference? That’s what we’re here to do. We’re here to help students grow into their potential as a successful adult. That’s really what it’s about.”
As dean of students and associate vice president for student affairs at Arkansas Tech, Harrel is providing oversight for student wellness, testing services, disability services, the ATU Center for Academic Advising and Career Development, the ATU Department of Student Conduct and the ATU Office of Title IX. She also serves as chair of the behavioral intervention and threat assessment team and coordinates assessment for the ATU Division of Student Affairs.
“I see it as more that a decision was made, and now we’re going to educate you and help you grow and learn from this,” said Harrel when asked about working with students facing conduct issues. “Even as adults, we still make bad decisions and we have our support group that helps us through that. That’s what I see it as…we’re the support group for that student, and we’re helping them grow into the next phase of their life.”
