Terry Di Paolo

Chief, Academic Initiatives

Dr. Terry Di Paolo is a dynamic leader, passionate teacher and innovative strategist who blends design thinking with risk-based management. As a first-generation student himself, his academic career began in the social sciences with a focus on the sociological and psychological aspects of the college student experience.

Dr. Di Paolo serves as chief of academic initiatives; a role that combines two of his passions — strategy and storytelling. With proven expertise in managing large-scale projects that deliver success for students and employees, Dr. Di Paolo strategizes with the end in mind. This approach allows him to drive outcomes with purpose and tell compelling stories that highlight the 'why' behind each initiative.

Inspired by the late French sociologist Pierre Bourdieu, Dr. Di Paolo's research spans educational inequities, living wage inequities and access to digital tools. From qualitative inquiry to large-scale quantitative research, he has extensive experience in data collection and complex analysis.

In his spare time, Dr. Di Paolo enjoys expressing his artistic side through watercolor painting, baking, cooking or creating electronic dance music. He looks forward to inspiring the Dallas community to think deeply about how our lives are shaped through behavior and social change.