HOUSTON — Texas Southern University is stepping into a new era, recently welcoming its 14th president as the university nears its 100th anniversary. He shared the vision for the future while recognizing the need to stay connected to its history.
President James Crawford III said taking the helm at Texas Southern University marks the crowning achievement of his professional career. He said the public's concern is not lost on him as the university has experienced quite a few shakeups in recent years, but he's confident that his commitment to consistency, stability, and excellence will drive the university forward.
Texas Southern University for nearly 100 years has been an anchor in Houston's Third Ward. Its academic legacy is tied to many success stories.
"I feel being here as the president of Texas Southern University can be and will be the crowning achievement," Crawford said.
In 97 years, there's been a series of transitions and naming Crawford as the 14th university president marks another transition on a storied timeline.
"It’s important that you learn the institution, learn the people, understand your mission thoroughly," he said.
Crawford takes the helm after 13th President Lesia Crumpton Young retired just short of two years into her term and several years after the board fired the 12th president, Austin Lane.
"It's important that the community and student body feels the stability and the continuity within our leadership and how we operate," Crawford said.
Crawford comes to TSU after leading Felician University in New Jersey. Prior to that, he served more than 30 years in the Navy under six U.S. presidents. The board and a 15-member committee confirmed his place in office.
"We're about to reach the 100th anniversary of the institution here in three years from now," Crawford said. "It’s really critical right now to be here because it’s a pivotal point."
Over the next 30, 60 to 100 days as president, Crawford said he'll meet with stakeholders and community members to get a clear understanding of the university’s strengths. He said shared governance is important.
"We had a mission to educate African-Americans at that time who didn’t have opportunities," he said. "But what I have to do now, I’ll be true to the founding principles. The founding purposes look through our objectives, look through our purpose presently through the 21st century."
Defining the future, he said, can't happen if not connected to the past, and adapting to the student needs of today is paramount.
"I come to TSU humbled by the opportunity, and I’ve tried to guide my life through three basic principles: faith, family, and service," he said.
Crawford will still be within his first 100 days when the fall semester begins on August 26. As he charts the course forward, he said connecting with alumni and new partnerships are necessary.