In a remarkable achievement that adds another feather to Texas Southern University's cap, Dr. Lucy Ojode, CPA(K), a venerable professor within the Jesse H. Jones School of Business, has been awarded the prestigious Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program grant. As an educator and academic leader who has dedicated two decades to molding minds at TSU, Dr. Ojode will now extend her influence globally, spending the 2024-25 academic year in Rwanda. There, she will play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of Rwandan entrepreneurs pursuing their Executive MBA.

"I am profoundly honored and grateful to be a Fulbright Scholar," Dr. Ojode shared with evident excitement. "The support from my TSU family—my colleagues and students—has been unwavering. As I mark my 20th year at TSU, this opportunity to bridge the gap between our TSU-trained entrepreneurs and the burgeoning African markets feels like the perfect culmination of my journey here. I eagerly anticipate the connections and knowledge that will emerge from this exchange."

 

Dr. Ojode's selection as a Fulbright Scholar is not just a personal milestone; it symbolizes TSU's enduring commitment to academic excellence and global outreach. The Fulbright Scholar Program is among the most prestigious academic exchanges in the world, annually granting more than 1,700 fellowships to faculty, researchers, and professionals across various disciplines. These scholars, like Dr. Ojode, serve as cultural ambassadors, enriching their host countries while bringing invaluable experiences back to their home institutions.

TSU President Jim Crawford expressed the university’s pride, stating, "Texas Southern University has been recognized by the U.S. Department of State as a Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leader for four consecutive years—a testament to our commitment to international education and cultural exchange. Dr. Ojode's journey to Rwanda is a continuation of our tradition of fostering global leaders. We are excited for the new perspectives and knowledge she will share with our community upon her return."

The Fulbright Program, active in over 3,500 countries since its inception in 1946, has empowered over 400,000 individuals to forge global connections, exchange ideas, and address complex challenges. The program’s distinguished alumni list includes Nobel Laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and heads of state, among other global leaders.

Dr. Carl Goodman, TSU’s Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, further underscored the significance of this honor: "Dr. Ojode’s accomplishment is a beacon of what we strive for at TSU—excellence, dedication, and a commitment to impact both locally and globally. Her journey as a Fulbright Scholar will not only elevate her professional experience but will also enhance the educational fabric of our institution. We look forward to the wealth of knowledge and insight she will bring back to enrich our academic community."

Houston Style Magazine readers, as Dr. Ojode prepares to embark on this transformative journey, the TSU community stands proud, knowing that one of their own will contribute to the global stage, further solidifying the university’s role as a leader in international academic exchange.