After setting records in grantmaking and fundraising at Communities Foundation of Texas, Monica Christopher has turned her focus to higher education. With 25 years of nonprofit and community leadership behind her, she began exploring new career paths last year.

“I was seeking a mission-driven opportunity where I could inspire leaders and make a significant contribution,” says Christopher, who became the inaugural president of Texas Woman’s University (TWU) Dallas campus in February. After discussions with Texas Woman’s Chancellor Carine Feyten and engaging with the faculty and staff, she found the perfect fit.

“The Dallas campus has a wonderful history and deserves more recognition,” Christopher says. “We’re making substantial contributions to the Dallas region, and it’s time for more people to know about it.”

[Photo courtesy: TWU]

Founded in 1901, TWU has grown into the nation’s largest university system focused on women, admitting men since 1972. In 2011, TWU extended its reach beyond its main Denton campus by opening a Dallas site specializing in nursing, health sciences and healthcare administration. Additionally, TWU has a center in Houston. In 2021, the Texas Legislature recognized TWU’s three campuses as the state’s seventh university system.

For Christopher, joining TWU represents an exciting professional milestone. “This opportunity allows me to apply my skills and build valuable relationships. It is an opportunity to think creatively, learn new things, and leave a positive legacy both within the university and in the community,” she says.

One of her main goals is to elevate the impact of the Dallas campus in the community. This involves having ongoing conversations with industry leaders and making data-driven decisions so that TWU’s programs continue to meet today’s changing workforce needs, including bridging employment gaps in the healthcare industry by preparing more exceptional TWU graduates in high-demand healthcare fields.

Christopher is committed to ensuring TWU remains a key player in the higher education landscape in Dallas. The Dallas campus is advancing innovation, particularly through research in occupational therapy, physical therapy and nursing. “Our research on maternal health and mortality highlights important risk factors for women of color who are more likely to deliver preterm births. This is just one example of how the work of our faculty and students benefits the community,” she says. “TWU students and alumni are performing important clinical and non-clinical roles in healthcare across the North Texas region.”

Christopher sees potential for innovation through research and collaboration with commercial entities and other higher education institutions. “We look forward to exploring new research opportunities and industry partnerships to advance scientific discovery, while also ensuring that our students are prepared for their careers. While all of our programs at TWU Dallas are currently in allied health, we are open to numerous possibilities for adding new degree programs and encourage everyone to reach out with ideas. Through partnerships, TWU can add value and become a hub for innovation.”

As president, Christopher offers strategic leadership for the Dallas campus, situated in the Southwestern Medical District with a strong emphasis on health-related majors. She will collaborate with key stakeholders — including alumni and business and industry leaders — to maintain and enhance the university’s standing as a pivotal player in the higher education landscape of Dallas.

With a clear vision and dedication to community engagement, Christopher is poised to lead the university to new heights, foster innovation and growth, and shape the future of healthcare education in the Dallas region.

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