Scholar-practioner: a term used to describe those who want to integrate an understanding and application of theory and research in a professional setting. It’s a term also used to describe Darby Roberts, director of Student Life Studies and adjunct professor at Texas A&M University. 

Roberts was recently awarded the inaugural Outstanding Contributions by a Scholar-Practitioner Award on behalf of the Faculty Council in NASPA-Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education. 

This award is given to a full-time professional in higher education/student affairs who has brought a wealth of current and relevant real-world experience into the classroom that has uniquely benefited educational experiences.

“Dr. Roberts has brought a wealth of current and relevant real-world experience into the classroom, and she is an exceptional role model for what it means to be a scholar-practitioner,” said Krista Bailey, clinical associate professor in the College of Education and Human Development. “In teaching graduate students we often tell them we are preparing them to be a scholar-practitioner, and it is sometimes challenging to find role models to point them to who are doing it well.” 

Bailey and several current and former students in the Student Affairs Administration in Higher Education (SAAHE) master’s program enthusiastically nominated Roberts for the award and attributed many learning and growth experiences through their time in the classroom with her. 

“Dr. Roberts was able to make assessment, something that intimidated me, very accessible, and an aspect of our field that I am still very passionate about today,” said former student Meghan Perez, ‘16, in her nomination letter. “Her natural humor made me look forward to our class meetings, and our course projects allowed me to gain knowledge and skills that I still use in my professional role to this day.”

Roberts will be recognized on March 19 during the 2021 NASPA Virtual Conference Faculty Assembly Breakfast. 

Along with this accolade, Roberts co-authored the newly released textbook, “Frameworks for Assessing Learning and Development Outcomes” (2nd ed.), a popular text among higher education professionals that provides practical and accessible learning outcomes assessment guidance.

Roberts also co-chairs the NASPA Assessment, Evaluation, and Research Knowledge Community, has multiple publications and presentations, and is frequently sought out as an assessment expert.