Texas Southern University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Texas Southern University has 8 executives leading key functions including information technology, operations, finance, and administration.

Driven by a commitment to urban programming and research, Texas Southern University prepares its diverse student population to become a force for positive change in a global society, offering access to higher education for underserved communities.

Leadership Roles at Texas Southern University

  • Interim Vice President, Finance & Amp. Chief Financial Officer, Administration - Anita Lockridge
  • NABA President - TiAnna Lewis
  • President - S. Rose
  • Sga President - Shekira Dennis
  • President - J. Crawford
  • Chief Information Officer - Billy Rector
  • Chief of Staff - Kia Harper
  • Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer - Rodney Smith
  • Anita Lockridge - Interim Vice President, Finance & Amp. Chief Financial Officer, Administration

    Anita Lockridge, the Interim Vice President, Finance & Amp. Chief Financial Officer, Administration at Texas Southern University, manages the university's financial health and administrative operations. Overseeing budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, Lockridge ensures fiscal responsibility and sustainability for the institution. This critical role involves managing financial reporting, compliance, and the strategic deployment of capital to support TSU's academic and research programs. By maintaining robust financial controls and driving administrative efficiencies, Anita Lockridge directly supports the university's commitment to providing higher education access to underserved communities. The Interim Vice President, Finance & Amp. Chief Financial Officer, Administration's leadership ensures the financial stability necessary for TSU's continued growth and impact.

    TiAnna Lewis - NABA President

    TiAnna Lewis, the NABA President at Texas Southern University, leads initiatives focused on professional development and networking for students in accounting and finance. Championing the National Association of Black Accountants' objectives, Lewis organizes events and resources that prepare students for careers in the financial sector. This leadership position involves fostering industry connections, promoting ethical practices, and enhancing the employability of TSU's diverse student body. By advocating for student success and professional excellence, TiAnna Lewis contributes to the university's mission of empowering underserved communities. The NABA President's dedication ensures students gain valuable insights and opportunities within the accounting and finance professions.

    S. Rose - President

    S. Rose, the President at Texas Southern University, provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the institution. Guiding TSU's commitment to urban programming and research, Rose oversees all facets of university operations, ensuring academic excellence and institutional growth. This executive role involves fostering a culture of innovation, championing diversity, and advancing the university's mission to serve underserved communities. By setting institutional priorities and cultivating key partnerships, S. Rose drives TSU's position as a respected leader in higher education. The President's leadership ensures the university continues to prepare its students to be forces for positive change in a global society.

    Shekira Dennis - Sga President

    Shekira Dennis, the Sga President at Texas Southern University, represents the student body and advocates for student interests across the university. Leading the Student Government Association, Dennis facilitates communication between students and university administration, ensuring student voices are heard in decision-making processes. This role involves organizing student-led initiatives, promoting campus engagement, and addressing student concerns related to academic life, campus services, and community development. By empowering students and fostering a vibrant campus environment, Shekira Dennis contributes to TSU's mission of preparing a diverse population for societal impact. The Sga President's dedication enhances the overall student experience and campus community.

    J. Crawford - President

    J. Crawford, the President at Texas Southern University, directs the strategic vision and operational execution of the institution. Leading TSU's comprehensive approach to higher education, Crawford ensures the university effectively addresses urban issues through its academic and research programs. This executive position involves fostering an environment of academic rigor, promoting student success, and advancing the university's role as a pioneer in educating underserved populations. By cultivating strategic alliances and overseeing institutional development, J. Crawford strengthens TSU's capacity to serve its diverse student body. The President's leadership reinforces the university's commitment to preparing graduates for meaningful contributions in a global society.

    Billy Rector - Chief Information Officer

    Billy Rector, the Chief Information Officer at Texas Southern University, directs the institution's technology strategy and infrastructure. Overseeing all aspects of information systems, Rector ensures the seamless integration of digital tools to support academic and administrative functions. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity protocols, data management, and the implementation of innovative technological solutions that enhance the educational experience for over 9,000 students. By optimizing network performance and digital resources, Billy Rector drives operational efficiency and supports TSU's mission of providing accessible higher education. The Chief Information Officer's purview extends to all technology-related initiatives, ensuring alignment with the university's strategic goals for urban programming and research.

    Kia Harper - Chief of Staff

    Kia Harper, the Chief of Staff at Texas Southern University, provides strategic support and operational oversight to the President's office. Managing key initiatives and ensuring effective communication across university departments, Harper facilitates the execution of TSU's mission. This role involves coordinating high-level projects, advising on policy development, and streamlining administrative processes to enhance institutional effectiveness. By fostering collaboration and driving strategic alignment, Kia Harper ensures that the university's operations effectively support its commitment to urban programming and research. The Chief of Staff's influence extends to optimizing resource allocation and championing initiatives that prepare the diverse student population for societal impact.

    Rodney Smith - Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer

    Rodney Smith, the Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer at Texas Southern University, oversees critical administrative functions that support the university's operational framework. Managing human resources, facilities management, and auxiliary services, Smith ensures the efficient delivery of essential campus operations. This leadership role involves developing and implementing policies that enhance institutional effectiveness and support the academic mission. By optimizing administrative processes and resource management, Rodney Smith directly contributes to TSU's ability to provide accessible higher education and conduct impactful urban research. The Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer's oversight ensures a well-managed and supportive environment for students, faculty, and staff.
    Rodney Smith

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Texas Southern University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Texas Southern University?
    Texas Southern University is led by Anita Lockridge (Interim Vice President, Finance & Amp. Chief Financial Officer, Administration), along with executives such as TiAnna Lewis (NABA President) and S. Rose (President).
    Who is part of Texas Southern University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Texas Southern University includes leaders such as Anita Lockridge (Interim Vice President, Finance & Amp. Chief Financial Officer, Administration), TiAnna Lewis (NABA President), S. Rose (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Texas Southern University have?
    Texas Southern University has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Texas Southern University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Texas Southern University includes roles such as Interim Vice President, Finance & Amp. Chief Financial Officer, Administration, NABA President, President, Sga President, President.