On Friday John Rudley was inaugurated as the 11th president of Texas Southern University, and our next-door neighbor couldn’t have picked better.
As many of us remember, Rudley served as interim president of UH before President Renu Khator took the reins.
Although his tenure as UH interim president was brief, he had a significant impact on the University. Through prior experience in the University’s administration, he brought insight and focus deserving of a top-tier school.
We know he will do the same for TSU.
As TSU seeks to rid itself of the stain left behind by former President Priscilla Slade, Rudley’s sense of duty and selflessness will mark a new chapter in the annals of the university’s history.
But it’s not just image that should be on Rudley’s mind – there are more than 9,000 students looking to him to lead their school in a new direction.
He is a business-minded, student-oriented leader who is keen to tackle problems head-on, and if his time at UH is any indication, then no one will be left disappointed.
As leader of TSU, he needs to effectively answer the toughest questions. How can the university rise from its relative obscurity and improve the quality of academics? What part will TSU play in the question of Revitalization versus gentrification in the Third Ward?
Is the well-being of students constantly in the forefront of intentions and actions of the administration and faculty? The answers to these and other questions will pave the road to success or stagnation.
TSU has a rich tradition, but must work toward establishing a richer, more successful future. With its Master’s of Urban Planning and Environmental Policy Program, TSU stands apart from other universities in the Houston area.
Along with its history of civil rights activism, TSU has the necessary foundation and energy to rival its colleagues in academic respect and achievement. Rudley is the one to effectively harness this tradition and add to TSU’s greatness.
Each university has its own unique set of problems that can only be solved from within. Rudley has the experience and tenacity to help carry TSU to a new era of success – not only success for the school as a whole, but to ensure each student has the opportunity, necessary facilities and environment to succeed and reach graduation.
Congratulations and good luck, Rudley.
