Dr. Raphael Moffett

Always the academician, Dr. Raphael Moffett followed a path that led to his receiving a Bachelor of Arts in English from Washington State University in 2002; a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Clark Atlanta University in 2004; and a Doctorate of Education, also from Clark, in 2008.

Dr. Moffett’s research primarily focuses on factors that impact African American student retention in higher education. He is especially interested in the undergraduate educational experiences of African American men. Dr. Moffett has been involved in student affairs on the national level for several years and has presented his work at many conferences.  He also serves on national committees to raise awareness about the importance, relevance, and sustainability of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

In the past 14 years, Dr. Moffett has gained valuable experience serving in progressive leadership roles at Trinity University, Morehouse College, Georgia State University, and Clark Atlanta University. He has experience working in student development, retention, student activities, fraternity/sorority life, leadership, student conduct, community service, diversity, residential life, and policy evaluation and implementation. Dr. Moffett is a visionary that is committed to enhancing students’ overall experience and providing them with skills that they will need to succeed post-graduation.

In December of 2014, Dr. Moffett faced one of his greatest challenges, a diagnosis of colorectal cancer at the age of 37yo.  During his treatment, he underwent chemotherapy, radiation, and total of five surgeries.  One surgery included the placement of temporary ileostomy bag that he wore for seven months.  Dr. Moffett admits his recovery has been challenging, but his spirit remains strong as ever.

Today, Dr. Moffett is cancer-free. He admits to having a great team of family, friends, and physicians who worked to make sure his health was restored. He believes, however, the greatest factor is his belief that God chose him for this battle so he could inspire others to embrace life’s challenges by espousing the notion that “weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.”  Dr. Moffett concludes, “We are all born and we will eventually pass but the significance of the dash that separates both dates is what’s most important.”

Currently, Dr. Moffett serves as the Vice President for Texas Southern University in Houston, TX.  In his leisure, he enjoys spending time with his wife and son, visiting family, reading, watching and playing basketball, calligraphy, listening to music, producing music, learning how to play piano, trying new restaurants, and traveling.  He is also a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.