Texas Southern University (TSU) is preparing to celebrate a momentous occasion—the 97th Founders Day Convocation—on Wednesday, September 18, 2024. This year’s celebration will honor the university’s rich legacy, spanning nearly a century, while also embracing the bright future ahead. Under the theme of "Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future," this historic event will mark the first convocation led by TSU’s 14th president, James W. Crawford III, who began his presidency in June 2024.

In addition to celebrating TSU’s trailblazing history, the event will feature an inspiring keynote address by Kamau M. Marshall, a highly respected political communications strategist and two-time TSU graduate. Marshall is known for his work in public engagement and shaping powerful political narratives, including his roles in various national campaigns. His words are expected to motivate the TSU community as they look toward a promising future.

The convocation will also showcase the remarkable talents of TSU students, including performances by the Texas Southern University Debate Team, the TSU Choir, and the TSU Wind Ensemble. These performances will add a special vibrance to the ceremony, reflecting the university’s commitment to both academic and artistic excellence.

A Legacy of Excellence and Resilience

Texas Southern University, originally founded in 1927, has evolved into one of the nation’s most important Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The university was established as a solution to the racial segregation that plagued the state of Texas at the time. In 1947, when African American student Heman Marion Sweatt was denied entry into the University of Texas Law School, the Texas State Legislature passed Senate Bill 140, creating what was initially named the Texas State University for Negroes. This legislation, signed into law on March 3, 1947, marked a pivotal moment in Texas history, with the state finally providing African American students access to higher education through a fully accredited institution.

In 1951, the university was renamed Texas Southern University, and over the years, TSU has transformed into a thriving hub of education, innovation, and empowerment. Today, it offers over 100 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs through its distinguished academic colleges and schools, including the Thurgood Marshall School of Law, the Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs, and the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.

Continuing the Legacy

TSU’s 97th Founders Day Convocation will celebrate this proud history while looking ahead to new milestones. President James W. Crawford III has committed to building on TSU’s storied past and driving forward initiatives to further enhance the university’s academic offerings, community impact, and student success. With an emphasis on fostering innovation, increasing access to education, and maintaining TSU’s strong legacy of diversity and inclusion, President Crawford’s leadership marks a new era for the university.

Kamau M. Marshall’'s keynote address will underscore this theme of progress, reflecting on his own journey as a TSU alumnus and his successful career in public service. His insight and experience will provide invaluable inspiration for students, faculty, and alumni alike, reminding them of the boundless potential that lies ahead.

Event Details:

Who:  

   President James W. Crawford III

   Keynote Speaker Kamau M. Marshall, Political Communications Strategist, TSU Alumnus

When:  

   Wednesday, September 18, 2024  

   11:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Where:  

   Granville Sawyer Auditorium, Texas Southern University  

   Parking: Available in Lot C (3305 Cleburne Street)

The Founders Day Convocation is open to the entire TSU community, as well as friends, family, and supporters of the university. It’s a time to reflect on nearly 100 years of educational excellence and chart a course for an even brighter future.

Celebrating the Heart of Houston’s HBCU

As one of the largest HBCUs in the country, Texas Southern University continues to be a beacon of hope and opportunity for generations of students. Through its academic offerings and cultural influence, TSU has become synonymous with resilience, leadership, and innovation.

Whether it’s through the law graduates of the Thurgood Marshall School of Law, the healthcare leaders from the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, or the public servants from the **Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs, TSU has contributed significantly to the Houston community and beyond.

For more info, visit TSU.edu