Ricky Kirby

Ricky Kirby, known as Dr. Rick to most of the students he works with, is a student-centered leader focused on cultivating meaningful student experiences that lead to better lives.

His higher education journey began at the University of Memphis, where he held numerous student leadership roles, including President of the Student Government Association.

His undergraduate experience led him to the University of Georgia, where he served in various roles in University Housing and in the Office of the Vice-President for Government Relations while earning a Master of Public Administration and a Doctor of Philosophy.

Following his desires to drive student development and belonging, he served as a student engagement and residence life professional at two other institutions, one in Central Texas and one in Memphis.

Before joining the Culver-Stockton team, he served as an association executive overseeing organizational operations and member experiences at the headquarters of a higher-education-adjacent international fraternity.

Dr. Rick’s core leadership philosophy is to put people in positions where they are most likely to succeed. Once they have been given the tools that build on their existing talents and strengths, he believes they are best able to achieve personal, team, and organizational goals. He firmly believes that once a student's basic needs are met, the best approach to development is to challenge them in specific ways to achieve their goals, while supporting them as they navigate those challenges.

His passions center on the great outdoors, great shows, all things higher education, Georgia Bulldogs athletics, and helping those around him become the people they wish to be.