Dr. Patrice Caldwell
Eastern New Mexico University
Dr. Patrice Caldwell received her bachelor's in English from the University of Southern California and her master's and Ph.D. from the University of California, Los Angeles. She began her academic career at ENMU in 1980 and never left.
Serving as assistant professor and director of Freshman Composition from 1980-84, she chaired the department of Languages and Literature from 1984-88. As a faculty member, she happily taught grammar, writing and literature courses, Women's Studies and her favorite - Victorian literature to ENMU students.
In 1988, after a national search, she became dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. When ENMU received the prestigious Pew Leadership Award for Institutional Renewal in 1997, she became the director of that grant, which launched ENMU's Freshman Seminar and substantially enhanced campus technology.
The next year, she moved to the office of Planning and Analysis, where she continued her work with grants, strategic planning and institutional data. In August, 2018, her title changed to vice president for Planning, Analysis and Governmental Relations, and she became ENMU Chief of Staff.
During Homecoming 2018, Caldwell was named the recipient of the Honorary Lifetime Award, the ENMU Alumni Association's highest honor given to those who have selflessly contributed service not just to ENMU, but to our nation as well. She also received the Presidential Award for Teaching Excellence in 1986.
Her dedication to ENMU and the surrounding community has not been limited to professional accolades, as she has been a board member for the ENMU Friends of Music since 1997, and has served as their president for the past 17 years. Caldwell also actively supports the arts on campus and is a loyal attendee during ENMU Athletics and student activities. She is very involved in the community, regularly donating her time to United Way, Meals on Wheels and other projects.