Lyle McKinney, Ph.D., serves as a professor and director of the Higher Education Leadership & Policy Studies Program within the College of Education. His scholarly focus centers on college student success, a commitment that drove his decision to reside on campus. This choice is rooted in the aspiration to actively contribute to the success and graduation of students, and McKinney finds fulfillment in his role as a Faculty-in-Residence(FIR) program, fostering meaningful relationships with students beyond the traditional classroom setting. McKinney serves as the Faculty-in-Residence (FIR) for Bayou Oaks and University Lofts. 

Engaged in ongoing collaborative research, McKinney is working closely with faculty and administrators at Corporación Universitaria Minuto de Dios (UNIMINUTO) in Bogotá, Colombia. Having visited UNIMINUTO in February 2023, he collaborated with colleagues to develop a joint research agenda. Currently, they are co-authoring a comparative study on student financial aid policies in Colombia and the U.S. McKinney's future research plans include providing consultation on issues related to student transfer from Colombian technical/vocational colleges to four-year institutions. 

Originally from a small town in Georgia, McKinney's roots trace back to a family farm that spans five generations. Outside of work, he enjoys outdoor activities, biking, sports, reading, exploring Houston's cultural and arts scene, and spending quality time with family and friends. His 6-year-old son, Will, adds a delightful dimension to his life. 

McKinney's primary goal centers on providing programs and support services within the residence halls that contribute to students' academic and professional success. McKinney advises Bayou Oaks and University Lofts to contact him directly to share suggestions for FIR programming this academic year.