Texas Southern University (TSU), one of the nation’s largest historically Black universities and a leading institution in Houston, will host Major League Baseball executive Del Matthews as the keynote speaker for its 2025 fall commencement ceremony. TSU, known for its strong academic programs, diverse student body, and commitment to community leadership, prepares graduates for success across a wide range of fields, from business and the sciences to the arts and athletics.

Matthews, a former Texas Southern Tiger, currently serves as MLB’s Senior Vice President of Baseball Development, overseeing youth academies, development programs, and initiatives designed to create opportunities for diverse amateur baseball players. He manages MLB Youth Academies in Compton, California, and New Orleans, Louisiana, and serves as the primary liaison to club-operated academies nationwide. He also leads high-profile development initiatives, including the HBCU Swingman Classic, Andre Dawson Classic, BreakThrough Series, Dream Series, and the Hank Aaron Invitational. Matthews oversees baseball and game operations for the MLB All-Star Futures Game and chairs the Technical Committee for the World Baseball Classic.

Before joining MLB’s executive leadership, Matthews completed the league’s Executive Development Program and worked with the Chicago White Sox organization, advancing to Assistant Director of Player Development. The 2025 season marked his 23rd year in professional baseball and his 10th in the Office of the Commissioner.

Matthews’ connection to Texas Southern University runs deep. He played for the university’s baseball team from 1996 to 2000, serving as team captain, earning All-SWAC honors, and receiving a nomination for Texas Southern’s Outstanding Male Athlete of the Year. His family has a storied baseball history, including his father, Gary “Sarge” Matthews, a 17-year MLB veteran; his brother, Gary Matthews Jr., a 10-year MLB player; and his godfather, World Series–winning manager Johnnie B. “Dusty” Baker.

Off the field, Matthews holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago and is pursuing a master’s degree in Sports Leadership with a concentration in Data Analytics from Abilene Christian University. He is actively involved in Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., the Buck O’Neil Scouts Association, and serves on the USA Baseball Golden Spikes Award selection committee. Matthews resides in Westchester County, New York, with his wife and three sons.

The fall commencement ceremony will take place on Friday, December 5, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. in Texas Southern University’s Health & Physical Education Arena. TSU will celebrate its graduates while highlighting its commitment to preparing students for leadership, service, and success in their chosen fields.