James W. Crawford has been selected as the sole finalist for president of Texas Southern University. Under state law, university governing boards must name presidential finalists at least 21 days prior to an official appointment. The university expects Crawford to assume his presidency by the end of May.
Texas Southern University is a historically Black university located in Houston. The school enrolls roughly 6,800 undergraduate students and 1,800 graduate students. African Americans represent 84 percent of the undergraduate population.
Crawford has spent the last two years as president of Felician University in New Jersey. He served as interim president for nine months prior to his permanent appointment. During his tenure, the university underwent multiple infrastructure improvements including a new Wellness and Recreation Center and STEM Center.
Outside of his academic experience, Crawford served in the United States Navy for more than three decades, ultimately retiring as vice admiral and the 43rd judge advocate general. He held numerous leadership roles throughout his service including principal military advisor to Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama. His contributions to the United States military have earned him multiple awards including two Distinguished Service Medals.
Dr. Crawford completed his undergraduate education at Belmont Abbey College in North Carolina. He holds a juris doctorate from the University of North Carolina, a master of laws degree in ocean and coastal law from the University of Miami, and a master’s degree in security and strategic studies from the Naval War College.
