Nikki Steele Executive Director
Born and raised in Plainview, TX, Nikki came from humble beginnings in an all-American blue-collar family. Her dad was a Vietnam veteran who worked as a mechanic Monday-Saturday and her mom was a secretary with the same company for 35 years. Nikki and her older brother were taught to work hard, be honest, and appreciate a solid work ethic.
After graduating high school a year early, Nikki attended Texas Tech University in Lubbock with aspirations of becoming a teacher. She graduated from Texas Tech in 1997 with her Bachelor of Science degree, and started her career as a middle school science teacher and coach in Lewisville ISD. Nikki married and moved to Corpus Christi, TX and completed her Master of Science degree in Educational Administration in 2003 from Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. After having two daughters, Nikki and her husband relocated to the DFW area where she began her career in school administration. She served in K-12 education for 26 years as a high school Associate Principal, Principal and founder of Royse City College & Career Academy, then Director of Advanced Academics in Royse City ISD.
As the Executive Director of Secondary Partnerships and Initiatives at Texas A&M-Commerce, Nikki gets to continue working in school districts across Texas to bring dual credit to families. Her passion is fueled in knowing that she is a hope-dealer to families and young students who didn't think college was in their future.
A Conversation with Nikki Steele
What would you tell a student who is thinking about attending A&M-Commerce?
Texas A&M -Commerce is a great place to begin the next phase of your life. There are so many opportunities to get involved, meet new friends and build lifetime relationships. A&M-Commerce prides itself in preserving a hometown feel while still offering over 130 academic degrees. There truly is something for everyone!
What do you like most about your career?
I get the unique opportunity to live in K-12 and higher education. The Office of Secondary Partnerships and Initiatives is tasked to expand dual credit into school districts across this great State of Texas. It is my pleasure and joy to see how dual credit is changing the trajectory of lives and families for generations to come.
How do you help students at A&M-Commerce?
I bring students into the family of educators at A&M-Commerce. Students who thought they would never succeed in college become Lions under my watch. I have a great sense of pride watching young high school students mature and take the next step in furthering their education at A&M-Commerce.
Educational Background
- M.S., Educational Leadership, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, 2003
- B.S., Education, Texas Tech University, 1997