Bobbie DeCuir

Dr. Bobbie DeCuir is the Dean of University College at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, a position she has held since 2012. With over 32 years of service at UL Lafayette, she has played a pivotal role in advancing student success, particularly for first-generation and low-income students. Her leadership extends across multiple TRIO programs, including Student Support Services, Upward Bound, and Talent Search.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Applied Language and Speech Sciences, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, 2007
• MS in Organizational Communication, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, 1988
• BA in Communication, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, 1986

Dr. DeCuir's research centers on the intersection of poverty and education, with a strong emphasis on retention strategies for underrepresented student populations. Her work explores how socio-economic status affects academic outcomes and how institutional support systems can bridge equity gaps. She has contributed to national conversations on educational access through her collaborations with Columbia University and Harvard University.

Her recent publications and reports highlight trends in educational equity, poverty simulation modeling, and program evaluation for family well-being. These works span disciplines such as sociology, public policy, and educational psychology, reflecting a deeply interdisciplinary approach to solving systemic educational challenges.

Scientific Awards and Recognition:

• Christiana Smith Trailblazer Award (2021)
• Outstanding Alumni (2019)
• Women who Mean Business (2017)
• Outstanding Educator, National Association of University Women (2015)
• Woman of the Year (1994)
• Outstanding University Professional, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity (1994)
• Eucharistic Minister of the Year, St. Genevieve Catholic Church (1993)
• Lyceum Award, UL Lafayette (1992)
• Outstanding Graduate Student, Department of Communication (1988)

Dr. DeCuir has secured over $10 million in grant funding for student support initiatives, including multiple five-year federal grants from the Department of Education for TRIO programs. She mentors students through program oversight and has led research teams focused on poverty and family studies. Her leadership in the Picard Center and University College underscores her commitment to systemic change in higher education access and success.

She is actively involved in several research and administrative teams, particularly those focused on educational equity and student retention. Her office is located in DeClouet Hall, Room 104, and she maintains regular office hours Monday through Friday.