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Conrad N. Hilton College of Global Hospitality Leadership
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About

Kei-lah Dowdy Adjunct Faculty & Director of Executive Programs

Education
Ed.D., Educational Leadership- Higher Education Administration, Arkansas State University (in progress); M.F.A., Creative Writing, Texas State University; B.A., English and International Studies, Texas State University 
 
Expertise & Specialization

  • Higher Education Administration
  • Graduate & Executive Education Leadership
  • Marketing for Online Programs
  • Creative, Technical & Professional Writing
  • Student Advocacy, Mentorship & Retention Strategies
  • Experiential learning and applied leadership development
  • Digital engagement strategies for adult and online learners        

Career Highlights 
Kei‑lah Dowdy is an accomplished higher education leader with extensive experience in graduate and executive program administration, strategic operations, and student-focused teaching. In her role as Director of Executive Programs at the University of Houston, she oversees all facets of graduate and executive education, including admissions, enrollment strategy, scholarships, policy development, marketing, and major industry partnerships, while collaborating on strategic initiatives across the college. 
As Adjunct Faculty in the Executive Master of Hospitality Management program, she mentors graduate students through applied research and professional practicum projects, supporting their development as working professionals. Previously, as Program Manager II in the Office of the Provost, she led marketing and web strategy for online and special programs, managed over 1,500 certification programs, launched new initiatives such as a high‑earning cybersecurity boot camp, and directed analytics, CRM operations, and multi‑platform communications. 
Her earlier career at Texas State University includes leadership in family engagement, event management, academic support, website redesigns, staff supervision, and student-centered program development. Across all roles, she brings a multidisciplinary background in administration, curriculum design, analytics, creative and technical communication, and instructional leadership.