Kristen Hutchins serves as Dean of the School of Science and Mathematics and Professor of Biology at Howard Payne University. With 18 years of teaching experience, Hutchins brings a strong background in biology, exercise science, science education, and student mentorship to her leadership and teaching roles. Her work reflects a deep commitment to helping students pursue their academic goals while also discerning and preparing for their professional callings.
Hutchins teaches Anatomy and Physiology I and II, Health Professions Seminar, and Medical Internships. She enjoys each of these courses because they allow her to work closely with students who are preparing for careers in health-related fields. Whether students are learning complex biological systems, exploring professional pathways, or gaining practical experience through internships, Hutchins values the opportunity to support their development both inside and outside the classroom.
One of the aspects Hutchins appreciates most about her work at HPU is the people. She values being part of a team that loves the Lord and enjoys teaching students who challenge her to grow in new ways each year. She describes her work as never boring because it combines teaching, mentoring, leadership, and relationship-building. She especially enjoys walking alongside students as they pursue their calling and celebrates their accomplishments even long after they graduate from HPU.
Hutchins is passionate about teaching biology because she sees science as an extraordinary reflection of God’s creation. For her, the study of living systems provides countless opportunities to recognize the beauty, complexity, and order present in the natural world. She seeks to help students appreciate science not only as an academic discipline but also as a meaningful way to better understand the world around them.
Hutchins holds a bachelor’s degree in Biology, a master’s degree in Exercise Science, and a doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in College Science Teaching. Her academic preparation reflects both her scientific background and her commitment to effective teaching in higher education.
She has also contributed to scholarship in science education and physiology. Her publications and presentations have addressed topics including integrative learning, science faculty belief systems, professional development in science education, and vascular physiology. Her work has appeared in publications such as the Journal of Science Teacher Education, Science Scope, and Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise.
Outside of the classroom, Hutchins enjoys spending time with her family and supporting her children and her husband’s tennis teams, proudly cheering on the Brownwood Lions. She and her family are active at Coggin Avenue Baptist Church, where they enjoy spending time with their church community and help lead a Sunday School class called ABIDE.
Through her teaching, leadership, scholarship, and mentorship, Hutchins seeks to help HPU students grow academically, professionally, and spiritually as they prepare to serve others through careers in science and the health professions.
