Influential UH leader passes

Former UH President Philip Guthrie Hoffman died Wednesday at the age of 93.

He was the fifth president to serve the University of Houston and the first University of Houston System Chancellor.

Under Hoffman’s presidency from 1961 to 1977 – the University overcame major financial hurdles, rebuilt and constructed many campus facilities and enrolled its first black student.

In addition to the University’s racial integration, his 16-year administration also saw an enrollment increase to 29,297 from 12,187 students.

Born in 1915 in Kobe, Japan, Hoffman earned degrees from Pacific Union College, the University of Southern California, Ohio State University and served in the Navy during World War II as an intelligence officer.

He served as UH System leader until 1979, and upon his resignation as chancellor he began his tenure as president of the Texas Medical Center.

UH President Renu Khator declared Oct. 31 Philip Guthrie Hoffman Day, and today the University will fly the flag at half-staff in his honor.