Texas Southern University Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Texas Southern University has 8 executives leading key functions including information technology, administrative operations, financial management, and institutional leadership.

Committed to academic excellence and urban research, Texas Southern University empowers underserved communities through accessible higher education and transformative degree programs that address critical societal challenges.

Leadership Roles at Texas Southern University

  • Interim Vice President, Finance & Amp. Chief Financial Officer, Administration - Anita Lockridge
  • NABA President - TiAnna Lewis
  • President - J. Crawford
  • President - S. Rose
  • Sga President - Shekira Dennis
  • Chief Information Officer - Billy Rector
  • Chief of Staff - Robert Marble
  • 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, oversees the fiscal health and budgetary planning for the entire institution. Lockridge manages complex financial portfolios to support the delivery of over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs. By implementing stringent fiscal controls, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the sustainable allocation of resources toward urban research and student support services. This leadership role involves collaborating with the board to maintain long-term financial viability while expanding access for first-generation college students. Anita Lockridge directs the financial reporting and audit processes that uphold institutional integrity. Through careful management of capital expenditures and operational funding, the Chief Financial Officer strengthens the university's capacity to serve diverse communities. Ultimately, Lockridge provides the economic foundation necessary for academic success.

    TiAnna Lewis - NABA President

    TiAnna Lewis, the NABA President at Texas Southern University, leads the professional development and networking initiatives for students pursuing careers in accounting and finance. Lewis architects programs that bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world industry requirements. By fostering partnerships with corporate entities, the NABA President creates pathways for students to secure internships and professional opportunities. This leadership role involves mentoring the next generation of financial leaders and promoting diversity within the accounting profession. TiAnna Lewis organizes workshops and seminars that equip students with the technical skills necessary for success in a global society. Through active engagement with the student body, the NABA President ensures alignment with the university's commitment to preparing graduates for positive change. Ultimately, Lewis drives the professional advancement of students within the competitive financial sector.

    J. Crawford - President

    J. Crawford, the President at Texas Southern University, defines the overarching strategic vision and academic mission for the institution. Crawford directs the university's efforts to address critical urban issues through research and community-focused programming. By engaging with the board and external partners, the President secures the resources necessary to support 10 colleges and schools. This leadership role involves championing the needs of underserved students and first-generation college attendees. J. Crawford oversees the implementation of academic policies that prepare a diverse student population for success in a global society. Through visionary leadership, the President maintains the university's status as a respected pioneer in higher education. Ultimately, Crawford drives the long-term growth and societal impact of the institution, ensuring that the university remains a force for positive change in the heart of Houston.

    S. Rose - President

    S. Rose, the President at Texas Southern University, focuses on the expansion of research initiatives and the enhancement of academic quality across all degree programs. Rose architects partnerships with regional and national organizations to elevate the university's profile in urban research. By fostering an environment of innovation, the President encourages faculty and students to tackle complex societal challenges. This leadership role involves managing the university's reputation and ensuring that academic offerings remain relevant to the needs of a diverse student population. S. Rose oversees the development of new concentrations and professional degrees that align with evolving market demands. Through strategic advocacy, the President secures the support required to maintain the university's 150-acre campus and academic facilities. Ultimately, Rose drives the institutional commitment to excellence and accessibility for all students.

    Shekira Dennis - Sga President

    Shekira Dennis, the Sga President at Texas Southern University, represents the student body and advocates for initiatives that improve the campus experience. Dennis architects platforms for student engagement and ensures that the voices of 9,000 academic candidates reach the administration. By organizing events and town halls, the Sga President fosters a sense of community and belonging among the diverse student population. This leadership role involves collaborating with university officials to address student concerns regarding campus life and academic support services. Shekira Dennis leads the student government in promoting leadership development and civic participation. Through proactive communication, the Sga President ensures that student needs remain a priority in the university's strategic planning. Ultimately, Dennis drives the student-led efforts that contribute to the vibrant and inclusive culture of the university.

    Billy Rector - Chief Information Officer

    Billy Rector, the Chief Information Officer at Texas Southern University, directs the digital infrastructure and technological framework supporting over 9,000 students. Rector architects secure data systems and robust network environments essential for modern urban research and academic delivery. By modernizing campus-wide connectivity, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless access to digital learning resources across the 150-acre campus. This leadership role involves aligning information technology initiatives with the broader mission of providing equitable education to underserved populations. Billy Rector manages complex cybersecurity protocols to protect institutional research and student records. Through strategic investment in cloud-based platforms, the Chief Information Officer enhances operational efficiency for faculty and staff. Ultimately, Rector drives the digital transformation necessary for maintaining the competitive edge of the university within the global academic landscape.

    Robert Marble - Chief of Staff

    Robert Marble, the Chief of Staff at Texas Southern University, coordinates executive communications and facilitates strategic alignment across all 10 colleges and schools. Marble manages the flow of critical information between the president and the leadership team to ensure cohesive execution of institutional goals. By streamlining administrative workflows, the Chief of Staff optimizes the decision-making process for university initiatives. This role involves overseeing high-level projects that impact the student population and the historic Third Ward community. Robert Marble maintains rigorous standards for organizational transparency and accountability. Through proactive engagement with internal and external stakeholders, the Chief of Staff fosters a collaborative environment conducive to academic growth. Ultimately, Marble secures the operational stability required for the university to continue its legacy as a distinguished educational pioneer.

    Rodney Smith - Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer

    Rodney Smith, the Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer at Texas Southern University, directs the daily operations and administrative functions across the campus. Smith oversees facilities management, human resources, and campus safety to ensure a productive environment for 9,000 academic candidates. By optimizing administrative processes, the Chief Administrative Officer supports the university's mission of providing high-quality education to underserved communities. This leadership role involves coordinating with other C-suite members to implement policies that enhance student life and faculty performance. Rodney Smith manages large-scale operational initiatives that align with the university's strategic goals for growth and community impact. Through rigorous oversight of campus infrastructure, the Chief Administrative Officer maintains the physical and organizational standards of the institution. Ultimately, Smith drives the operational excellence required to sustain the university's reputation as a leader in urban education.
    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 J. Crawford (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), J. Crawford (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, President, Sga President.