Nicole McAninch, PhD, CFLE, Appointed Robbins College Interim Associate Dean for Undergraduate and International Studies

Baylor University’s Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences has appointed Nicole McAninch, PhD, CFLE, as Interim Associate Dean for Undergraduate and International Studies. This appointment is effective January 1, 2023, and is aligned with the transition of Michaela Ritter, EdD, from the Associate Dean role to the Martin Family Endowed Chair and Department Chair of Communication Sciences and Disorders (read more here).

“I am very grateful to Dr. McAninch for her willingness to step into the Associate Dean role. She is consistently commended by her colleagues and students and brings a significant set of skills and experiences to the position,” Dean Carter said. “Dr. Ritter has done terrific work these past six years, and I look forward to now seeing how Dr. McAninch continues this tradition of excellence and makes her own positive impact.”

McAninch currently serves as Clinical Associate Professor and Division Leader for Child and Family Studies within the Department of Human Sciences and Design. She has taught at Baylor University since 2009 and is a two-time Baylor graduate with a bachelor’s and master’s degree in social work. She earned her PhD in Family Studies from Texas Woman’s University. McAninch is also co-creator of the Intentional Family Project, which promotes family well-being, and was the recipient of the first Robbins College Pure Gold Award for Service.

Experiences in a wide variety of leadership roles have prepared McAninch for her new position. She has led program and department recruiting and university events, worked closely with the Robbins College advising team, and regularly meets with incoming, transfer, and current students within the Department of Human Sciences and Design.

“It is a privilege to serve the Robbins College in this capacity, and I am honored to continue the excellent work established by Dr. Ritter in supporting and strengthening undergraduate experiences within our college,” McAninch said. “I look forward to working with colleagues and students throughout the College as we continue to foster a supportive and collaborative community dedicated to academic care and excellence.”