Howard Payne University recently named Dr. Mary Agboola as the new coordinator of graduate studies and special projects in academic affairs. Dr. Agboola will oversee HPU’s newly created Office of Graduate Studies. This office offers a consolidated contact point for HPU’s four graduate programs.

Dr. Jill Heupel, associate vice president for academic affairs, is excited about Dr. Agboola’s new role and the impact it will have on HPU’s ability to serve graduate students.

“Establishing a unified Office of Graduate Studies under Dr. Mary Agboola’s leadership significantly enhances our graduate programs by strengthening both recruitment and retention efforts,” said Dr. Heupel. “Dr. Agboola will collaborate with the graduate academic program directors and deans to drive continuous improvement, facilitate the development of new graduate programs, streamline enrollment processes, facilitate recruitment efforts and foster a cohesive and dynamic academic experience for all graduate students.”

Previously, Dr. Agboola was an associate professor of economics at Dar Al Uloom University in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where she served for nine years. She holds a Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy in economics from Eastern Mediterranean University Northern Cyprus. Dr. Agboola and her husband, Dr. Philips Agboola, a professor of engineering at HPU, have two children. In her free time, she enjoys traveling and historical sightseeing.

“My goal is to work towards an increase in student enrollment and ensure that our graduate programs attract students who are seeking Christ-centered advanced knowledge,” said Dr. Agboola.

HPU offers four graduate programs: Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Education in Sport and Wellness Leadership (SWELL), Master of Arts in Theology and Ministry (MATM) and Master of Arts in Youth and Family Ministry (MAYFM). All of these programs prioritize a Christ-centered education, personalized learning, affordability, flexible learning and mentorship. The MBA and SWELL programs are fully remote, while the MATM and MAYFM programs are offered in a hybrid format.

“The Office of Graduate Studies at HPU promotes a nurturing learning environment centered on Christian values and mentorship for graduate students,” said Dr. Agboola. “Graduate Studies at HPU provide students with the necessary leadership skills to advance their careers.”

Applications are currently being accepted for all graduate programs. For more information, visit www.hputx.edu/gradstudies or contact the Office of Graduate Studies at graduatestudies@hputx.edu.