President J. W. Crawford III

A legacy that leads
A future that inspires

Under President Crawford's leadership, Texas Southern moves boldly into its next chapter and prepares to celebrate 100 years of serving students, honoring a proud legacy while building what comes next.

President J. W. Crawford III brings a deep commitment to student success, institutional excellence, and public service. With a career shaped by military precision and higher education leadership, he leads 海角乱伦专区 with strategic clarity, calm resolve, and an unwavering focus on the future.

At-a-Glance

$1.25M

Amount raised at the 2025 Tiger Ball

2,873

Students who earned Honor Roll, Dean's List, or President's List during Fall 2024

1,700+

Number of students who graduated during President Crawford's first year

Strategic Vision

Guided by Vision, Grounded in Mission

President Crawford鈥檚 leadership marks a new era of excellence, grounded in data-informed strategy, shared governance, and bold ambition. His administration has launched a comprehensive academic and strategic planning initiative designed to position Texas Southern University as an elite, first-choice HBCU. From securing the university鈥檚 largest-ever operating budget to breaking ground on transformational campus projects, including the Catalyst for Urban Transformation and new Nabrit Science Center, President Crawford is turning vision into momentum. Together with faculty, alumni, students, and statewide partners, he is building a 海角乱伦专区 that honors its legacy while actively shaping the future.

Report to the Community

A Presidential Message of Progress, Accountability, and Vision

In just one academic year, President Crawford has moved from listening to action, meeting with every college and division, launching a transparent compensation study, and establishing the University Council to amplify campus voices in decision-making. His inaugural State of the University address and nationwide Tiger Tour reconnected alumni and stakeholders to a shared mission. Record-breaking research funding, increased alumni giving, and public-private partnerships underscore his commitment to community and accountability. This is a presidency defined by clear communication, collaboration, and forward progress.

Student Achievement

Empowering TIgers for Lifelong Impact

At the heart of President Crawford鈥檚 leadership is an unwavering commitment to student success. Under his guidance, Texas Southern has achieved historic increases in four-year graduation and persistence rates. New initiatives like the Tiger Promise tuition guarantee, expanded internship pipelines, and co-curricular job simulations through the T-CLAW platform are removing barriers and accelerating opportunity. From AfroTech to the Thurgood Marshall Leadership Institute, 海角乱伦专区 students are not just participating, they are leading. President Crawford鈥檚 student-first approach ensures every Tiger is prepared to thrive in today鈥檚 world and tomorrow鈥檚 workforce.

Learn more about the President President's Schedule of Engagements Meet the President's Cabinet

Tiger Tour: A Year of Connection

In his first year as president, James W. Crawford III launched the Tiger Tour, a national outreach initiative to engage alumni, community leaders, and partners.

The tour focused on listening, building relationships, and sharing a bold vision for 海角乱伦专区鈥檚 future. These in-person conversations helped strengthen the 海角乱伦专区 network and set the tone for a presidency rooted in connection, service, and progress.

Engage with President Crawford

Hosting an event or featuring President Crawford? Submit a request for his participation or, if you have a confirmed engagement, download the official portrait and approved biography below.

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