SFA’s Center for Teaching and Learning announces new director

Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the new director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University.

NACOGDOCHES, Texas -- Dr. Cynthia (Cindy) Kilpatrick is the new director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stephen F. Austin State University. Kilpatrick brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to enhancing the educational experience for both faculty and students.

Kilpatrick joins SFA from The University of Texas at Arlington, where she served as a faculty member for 15 years. At UTA, she played an integral role in the Center for Research on Teaching and Learning Excellence and had been the director of the English Language Institute since 2015.

"Kilpatrick brings a wealth of experience as a faculty member, a small team leader and an administrator," said Megan Weatherly, executive director of the Lumberjack Learning Commons, which houses CTL. "She's already proving to be a thoughtful colleague and valued collaborator, and I look forward to all she will accomplish as CTL director."

Her extensive background in faculty development, combined with her administrative experience, uniquely positions her to lead the CTL at SFA.

"It was a great opportunity to apply my past experience while growing my skills and knowledge in new ways," Kilpatrick said. "When I came for my interview, everyone was just so friendly and welcoming that SFA seemed like a great place to work!"

SFA's CTL collaborates with faculty members to create better learning experiences for students. The CTL offers educator development workshops, technological support and personalized assistance with content creation, courses and assignments.

"As a former faculty member, I bring a strong faculty perspective to the CTL," Kilpatrick said. "My experience with UTA's Center for Research on Teaching and Learning Excellence has given me insight into how a center for teaching and learning operates and the day-to-day management of a campus unit. This role at SFA's CTL brings together these three strands of my previous work into one cohesive position."

Kilpatrick is enthusiastic about her new role and looks forward to fostering innovation and collaboration on campus.

"I believe the CTL should be a hub for innovation and collaboration on campus, and I'm looking forward to meeting people and making connections across the campus as I work with my team to positively affect teaching and learning at SFA."

Outside of her professional endeavors, Kilpatrick enjoys traveling and exploring new places with her son and husband. The Kilpatrick family is excited to explore the area around Nacogdoches and become part of the community.

For more information about the Center for Teaching and Learning, visit the website.