Dr. Tiffany Hughes

Dr. Tiffany Hughes is the Associate Dean of Graduate Programs at Columbia University's School of Professional Studies (SPS), where she assists in the oversight of 18 master’s programs. In this role, she collaborates with program directors to strategically shape academic offerings that align with current market demands, while also leading operational oversight to ensure daily functionality and uphold academic quality across programs.

Since joining the SPS community in 2017, Dr. Hughes has been a champion of student success. In her previous roles focused on Advising, Student Life, Wellness, and Academic Support, she made foundational contributions to the SPS Student Affairs Division. Dr. Hughes established the school’s first Academic Advising unit, Student Life and Wellness teams, and Academic Support resources. She also founded the school’s CARE team, created a student emergency fund, and laid the groundwork for the HBCU Fellowship program, initiatives that continue to impact students positively.

With over a decade of experience at prominent institutions such as Stevens Institute of Technology, CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice, and SUNY University at Buffalo, Dr. Hughes brings extensive expertise in higher education administration. A respected voice in the field, she has presented at numerous conferences worldwide and published on innovative student support and engagement strategies, with a focus on the graduate student experience.

Dr. Hughes holds a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration from Northeastern University and a Master’s in Higher Education Administration, with a Student Affairs concentration, from SUNY University at Buffalo. She also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Quinnipiac University. Her research explores the pivotal role of extracurricular programming and engagement in shaping a holistic experience for graduate students.

Outside her professional commitments, Dr. Hughes enjoys spending time with her family, discovering new travel destinations, and relaxing at the beach with her golden retriever, Zoey.