Alicia Watanabe Knight

Alicia Watanabe Olivia Knight, MPA, serves as an associate vice president for advancement at Texas Tech University. She is dedicated to developing meaningful relationships with university stakeholders, as an advocate for philanthropy. In 2015, Knight was named a “Top Techsan” by the Texas Tech Alumni Association. In 2024, she received recognition for 35 years of service to Texas Tech. 

As a first-generation college student, she has more than thirty years of service in higher education at Texas Tech. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology in 1987, graduating Summa Cum Laude, and a Master of Public Administration in 1992. 

Knight has a strong commitment to service by holding leadership positions in statewide, local civic and community organizations and boards, currently including The Texas Lyceum Executive Committee, Phi Gamma Delta Lambda Tau fraternity staff advisor, Talkington School for Young Women Leaders Advisory Committee, Y.W.C.A. Board of Directors, Prosperity Bank Community Advisory Board and the Texas Tech Club Board of Governors.

Born in Fort Benning, Georgia, Knight considers herself a native of Lubbock. She is the only child of Jesus Oliva, who only had an elementary education and was the son of migrant farm workers, and Eiko, who came to the United States from Japan after marrying an Army soldier. 

She is married to Michael Knight and they have two sons, Jordan and Zac, daughter-in-law Delaney, and two grandchildren.

Based in: Lubbock
Organization: Texas Tech University
Position: associate vice president for advancement
Speaking topics: careers in public service, advocacy and organizing, philanthropy.
audience preferences: college/university students, civic groups, community members.
In-person or virtual: in-person
Preferred speaking format: panel
Speaker fee: none

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Page last updated 12:57 PM, October 10, 2025