[ Now ] . . . more than ever
Annual Report 2 00 8 Texas Southern University
Message from the President On meeting the imminent challenges of his era, Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “We are now faced with the fact, my friends, that
tomorrow is today. We are confronted with the fierce urgency of now.” President Barack Obama cited these exact words as his reason for seeking the Presidency, intimating King’s underlying theme—that there is such a thing as being too late; and that the imminent challenges of our nation must be met now. In 2008, Texas Southern University recognized the need to attract and enroll high achieving students right now; to better support students with scholarships and enhanced facilities right now; to better equip students for success in the 21st Century global competition society—not tomorrow or next year, but right now. One move towards our goal involved the implementation of new admission standards for incoming freshmen to give the mantra, “raising the bar of expectations,” real teeth. Another involved the introduction of the coming Academic Village, a student-centered learning community for incoming freshmen that will provide students with the support systems necessary to succeed academically. Add to this mix major facility enhancements and numerous cuttingedge academic programs, and you have the makings of an academically charged campus environment guaranteed to breed “excellence in achievement.”
We must change now. We must transform now. We must act now . . . A major component of our focus on students involves a renewed commitment to provide them with the research opportunities upon which student growth and university reputations are built. To this end, Texas Southern is expanding its list of partnerships, offering our students and faculty major research opportunities in numerous areas, including today’s growing fields of health sciences and environmental health. As critical as attracting research dollars to the university may be, enhancing and promoting student academic success and experiences have been the major 2008 initiatives. This commitment includes an all out effort to increase scholarship endowments to provide students with the means to achieve their goals; expanded partnerships with area community colleges to facilitate a smoother transition for transfer students; and an enhanced commitment to student life, from a rethinking of the freshman experience to increased attention to the university’s 80-plus student organizations, like our world-renown Debate Team. These efforts, along with numerous others cited in this 2008 Annual Report, have been successfully coordinated by a new administrative team that hit the ground running to shore up all phases of operation at Texas Southern and restore community confidence and support. The accolades we received for our Hurricane Ike relief efforts demonstrated how far we have come in our ability to meet the needs of our students and our community. Today’s pressing challenges demand that we act now; and we possess the capacity to do so successfully. The foundation for expanding institutional excellence laid in 2008 provides the perfect platform for Texas Southern University to answer this generation’s call to action, daring, with the “audacity of hope,” to be great, and to transform today’s challenges into tomorrow’s opportunities. Our time is now.
[ ACADE M IC PROG RAM S]
Robert Clary Sophomore: Psychology Oakland, California
[
Robert Clary had a world of options in front of him. He toured 14 HBCUs, and among several suitors he chose TSU.
]
Like many of our students, Robert saw that he would have access to excellent programs and unique opportunities. He’s since put together a Psychology major with a Radio-Television-Film minor. World, here he comes.
F
inding exceptional scholars like Robert walking the halls of Texas Southern has become a common occurrence. High school Valedictorians, Salutatorians, and many other excellent individuals grace our enrollment roster. Our goal is to attract the best of the best – and keep them. Thus, we’ve launched a set of initiatives known as the Freshman Experience to foster new student success. It has several facets, from higher admissions standards to an Urban Academic Village where students like Robert will be immersed in an inspirational atmosphere of learning. “This school is definitely surpassing my expectations. I want the world to see the TSU that really exists. It is so outstanding on so many levels. It’s worth what it takes to get here. It’s worth working hard in high school. It’s worth standing in the financial aid line. It’s worth the application fee. I believe that when you apply yourself here, you can accomplish more than you could anywhere else.” Robert’s own academic life is his best example of what he believes. Through his own determination, along with a healthy dose of encouragement from his professors, Robert has become an honors student and accomplished member of the internationally renowned debate team. He plans to meld his Psychology and Radio Television Film studies into a radio or television show that will bring positive, therapeutic and spiritual messages to the masses.
Texas Southern University aims to graduate students who can compete with the best in the world. To achieve this ambitious goal, we start right at the beginning – the freshman experience.
A Fresh Start This past year saw the birth of the Freshman Experience initiative, a set of programs that raises
ACADE M IC PROG RAM S
the bar of excellence from the moment a student arrives. The first step was the establishment of new admissions standards. Applicants now must graduate high school with a minimum 2.0 GPA, with automatic admission for students in the top 25% of their class. Other avenues for admission will be phased in for the Fall 2009 semester. It was expected that the new standards would cause a decline in freshman enrollment, yet Fall 2008 actually saw an 8% increase in applications, among those a number of top honor students and other high-achieving graduates.
4
Those who do not meet the new standards still have a path open to TSU – the Summer Academy. This free program is designed to prepare students for college-level coursework and motivate them to seek an academic life. It provides intensive instruction in math, reading, writing, leadership and character development. In short, it’s a jumpstart on being successful in college. A major component is NFL Hall of Famer Jim Brown’s Amer-I-Can program – a 60 to 90 hour life-management-skills curriculum that helps students make the most of college opportunities and become leaders. Students who successfully complete the Summer Academy are rewarded not only with admission to
TSU, they also receive a book scholarship and a tuition stipend for the upcoming fall semester to help them continue their winning journey down the college path. The first Summer Academy ended on a powerful note, as boxing legend and Houston business luminary George Foreman gave an inspirational speech titled “Don’t Get Knocked Out.” He told students that the best weapons they have to overcome obstacles are not their fists, but their minds. Another major evolution taking place at TSU is the establishment of an Urban Academic Village. Details are still under development, yet the overall vision is to enhance college success by encouraging students to live on campus and immerse themselves in an academically and socially stimulating environment. Students will have 24-hour access to the library, computer labs and study rooms, and they will always have dedicated faculty, counselors and support staff nearby. Students will live among peers in an intellectually charged atmosphere where open discussion, debate and the spirit of discovery will rule the day. Exciting new academic momentum was built in 2008 that will propel Texas Southern into the future, yet there were also outstanding
[
]
We built exciting new academic momentum in 2008 that will propel TSU into the future . . .
accomplishments in the now. Assistant Law Professor Laura Cisneros was lauded by the American Association of Law Schools for her paper,
Standing Doctrine, Judicial Technique, and the Gradual Shift From RightsBased Constitutionalism to Executive Constitutionalism, one of only two winning papers. Cisneros presented her work at the AALS Annual Meeting last January, after garnering high praise from Harvard Law Professor Todd Rakoff, Chair of the Special Committee to Review Scholarly Papers.
Dr. Ohia Works Towards Excellence Dr. Sunny Ohia, Texas Southern’s Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, who joined Texas Southern
Distinction also came to the Masters Program in Urban Planning and Environmental Policy, which was awarded accreditation by The Planning Accreditation Board – the definitive national body that recognizes educational programs for performance, integrity and quality. TSU is one of only four schools in Texas to have this accreditation and the only one in Houston, giving our graduates a distinct advantage when entering careers in urban planning.
in September 2008, is driven by his pursuit for academic excellence. Already he is developing new initiatives to ensure student and faculty success on the Texas Southern campus. He is a man who knows how to get results. Under his leadership while Dean of Pharmacy at the University of Houston, he expanded research grants by 400% to a total of more than $4 million. Graduate student enrollment rose by 70% and government appropriations increased by more than 100%. Dr. Ohia has developed and implemented a reorganization plan that will provide a clear vision, strong leadership and accountability for the academic programs at Texas Southern. Dr. Ohia’s experience in recruiting top faculty and students, in fundraising, and in research, will position Texas Southern University for greatness.
Fall 2008 Freshman Statistics n Applications up 8% totaling 5,983 n First time enrollment of 1,347 n Average GPA of 2.71 n Average ACT/SAT of 16 and 783 n GPA greater than 3.0 – 28% n GPA greater than 3.5 – 6% n SAT score greater than 920 – 8%
[ RESEARCH ]
Chelsea Harris Senior: Chemistry and Mathematics Port Arthur, Texas
[
Chelsea Harris can’t help it. She has to find answers to the toughest questions, and she will stop at nothing to do so.
]
This includes taking a ride on the “vomit comet” – NASA’s legendary research aircraft that flies a series of stomach-churning parabolic arcs to simulate zero gravity for its meticulously chosen passengers.
Z
ero-gravity nanotechnology is certainly high-profile research – about 32,000 feet high to be precise. Yet it is just one of many important research programs taking place at Texas Southern. While most universities conduct research, a noteworthy difference here is that our professors don’t get to have all the fun. TSU students at all levels of their college careers are significantly involved – students like Chelsea, who passionately seek answers and come here to find them. “I first entered TSU as a music major. But once I got here I saw a clear path to pursue my other passions, science and mathematics, through the Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation scholarship program. I saw so many opportunities that I don’t think I could have gotten anywhere else. Since coming here I have been involved in significant research projects every year, working with institutions such as the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA ) and the Texas A&M Cyclotron Institute.” Chelsea clearly feels that Texas Southern has given her much, and she has big plans to someday give what she has gained right back. Her goal is to earn her Masters and PhD in Chemistry and return to TSU as a chemistry professor. Will she inspire the next generation of answer seekers? Given her track record of success and our track record for conducting essential research, we would postulate that the answer is very likely yes.
Texas Southern University is widely recognized for its excellence in certain key areas. Increasingly we are finding that one of these areas is research.
Forging Frontiers In short, TSU does advanced, world-changing research, and our efforts have reaped many rewards and opportunities for our students and faculty. One must look skyward to see one of the most notable recent examples. In 2008, nine undergraduate students were chosen by NASA to conduct zerogravity nanotechnology research in its famous aircraft laboratory 32,000 feet above the Earth’s surface. Our contingent of budding scientists climbed aboard, took off and soon found themselves working in a weightless environment as the enormous aircraft flew a series of gravity-cancelling parabolic arcs.
RESEARCH
Earning nine spots in this prestigious, competitive program is strong testimony to Texas Southern’s excellent research reputation. We can clearly see from here that the sky is definitely not the limit. In fact, looking at NASA alone, this is just one facet of our ongoing collaboration.
8
In 2008, NASA’s Office of Education invited minority institutions nationwide to submit proposals for $35 million in research grants. The grants are to help minority universities establish significant scientific, engineering and commercial research centers that will ultimately contribute to NASA’s own programs and provide the brainpower to make future advancements. Some 52 eligible proposals were submitted by collaborating groups of universities, and TSU’s group proudly emerged as the chosen one.
The proposal was developed by a team of worldclass researchers from Texas Southern, the University of Houston, University of California Santa Cruz, Texas A&M University, Jackson State University, Norfolk State University, and Stanford. The award will grant each school $5 million over the next five years for the establishment of a Center for Bionanotechnology and Environmental Research, also known as C-BER. C-BER will study health issues related to human space exploration. Currently there are several barriers blocking the path to long-term space travel, such as the effects of environmental hazards, microgravity, radiation and microorganisms. Texas Southern researchers will study how these issues affect humans at the genome, proteome, cell, tissue, organ, and organismal levels and work to develop countermeasures. They will study the growth patterns and molecular evolution of harmful microorganisms in confined environs, so they can be controlled. They will also push the limits of bionanotechnology to develop the next generation of biochemical sensors for pathogen and chemical detection. It promises to be a lot of hard and provocative work, all with one very exciting aim – to propel humankind into a future where safe long-term space missions are possible.
To be certain, TSU’s dedication to research is playing a part in shaping the current and future world. Last year, a team of Texas Southern researchers working with the U.S. Air Force made a major breakthrough in nanotube technology. They invented a process that allows instantaneous electrodeposition of metal nanostructures on carbon nanotubes. Translation: their work is dramatically expanding the viability of nanotubes, a miraculous material that has the highest tensile strength in existence as well as superior mechanical, electrical and thermal properties. Further translation: the possibilities are now limitless for making stunning strides in structural engineering, aerospace, healthcare and innovative materials for industry and consumer markets. Barbara Hayes, Dean of the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
Obviously TSU has become a big draw for NASA projects, yet our recent research achievements don’t stop there. In 2008 the university received a $750,000 grant from the Office of Naval Research, to be used to introduce students and faculty to the fields of nuclear science and engineering. Texas Southern received
[
This new technology is owned by TSU and was patented through Nanoridge, a Houston-based nanotechnology company. This is TSU’s first development that will generate commercial revenue. The next is likely to be a cancer-fighting agent developed in our College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, which was awarded a patent in September.
]
To be certain, TSU’s dedication to research is playing a part in shaping the current and future world.
the grant along with Huston-Tillotson University, Florida Memorial University, and The University of Texas. We were chosen in large part because of previous efforts in enhancing our science programs – one of these being $450,000 in grants to our physics program from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, which allowed us to establish the only undergraduate nuclear health physics program in the Houston area. This achievement should serve the university, its students and the outside world quite well, as there is a steeply growing need for scientists and engineers in the areas of nuclear medicine and homeland security.
TSU’s Nanotechnology research group was awarded the opportunity to participate in the NASA Reduced Gravity Student Flight Program. The unique weightless experiment proved to be a priceless experience for several talented and motivated TSU students.
Last year also saw TSU as one of only six institutions named by Congress as a National Transportation Security Center of Excellence. Over the next six years we will receive $18 million for research in petroleum transportation security solutions. The center will bring together experts from the public and private sectors to innovate new methods for strengthening the nation’s safety. Congress members Al Green and Sheila Jackson Lee were instrumental in helping us secure the grant.
[ STU DE NT LI FE]
Jose Loredo Sophomore: Jazz Performance Houston, Texas
[
It was music to Jose Loredo’s ears. A TSU professor came to his high school, heard him play, and offered a scholarship.
]
He jumped at the financial opportunity. But when he got here he found much more – that he was now part of a legendary music program, that he was gaining the skills to go far in his field, and that life for a TSU student can be very good.
S
tudents with immense talents like Jose’s are rare. But they’re not rare at Texas Southern. These students come because we offer them attractive opportunities. But when they get here, they’re often surprised by how emotionally attached to the school they become. They see that “student life” is different here. They see an institution passionately striking a balance – in its commitment to academics, the community, and the collegiate activities that build school spirit and bring students together in pride. “This school has given me great exposure. I got to be part of a nationwide audition for the HBCU All-Star Jazz Band, and was one of only four trombonists selected. I’ve gotten to go to New York and Canada for honorary performances. And TSU gave me the support to make it happen. This is a great environment for learning. Great professors, great school, great everything. I’m really proud to be here.” We’re equally proud to have Jose, but we know it won’t be for long. Upon graduation he plans to head north and earn his Masters from the New England Conservatory of Music or the Manhattan School of Music. Then he’d like to tour the world as a musician. Whether he achieves fame or simply makes a lot of beautiful music, we’ll be proud to say “we knew him when.”
In 2008, the nation’s first African-American president was elected. To borrow President Obama’s campaign credo, it was time for change. And the implication of this change was not lost on Texas Southern students, especially those on our newly installed Student Government Association.
Abundant Accomplishments Our own young leaders can now clearly see that there is no limit to what can be accomplished by minorities wishing to serve at the highest levels. Seizing upon the enormity of this opportunity, the SGA worked hard in contributing to the election process, hosting three events, Community-Wide Voter Registration Festival, Roll to the Polls, and Election Watch Night. This third event featured a large screen in the Plaza that broadcast live news feeds, keeping the rapt audience abreast of the results. The election certainly provided inspiration for students to engage with their school.
STU DE NT LI FE
Collegiate sports also play a starring role in the university experience. A number of new coaches were also hired, including head coaches for football and men’s and women’s basketball, and new accomplishments were reached.
12
The highlight was TSU baseball, which won the conference title on a 4-0 trip through the SWAC Championship Tournament. What makes the feat even more incredible is that the Tigers squeaked into the tourney, having to win their last game to claim a spot. Adam Sellers was named Tournament MVP. Jordan Bush, Justin Holloway and Rashad Ford were named to the All-Tournament Team and
Head Coach Candy Robinson was honored with SWAC Coach of the Year. Our Tigers represented the SWAC in the 2009 NCAA Division I Baseball Regional Tournament. In football, Texas Southern wide receiver William Osbourne was named to the SBN Sports Black College All-American Team and All-SWAC team. This junior distinguished himself as one of the nation’s premier players, finishing the season highly ranked in several national categories – second in all-purpose yards, seventh in punt returns, 11th in receptions per game and 16th in receiving yards per game. Other Texas Southern players receiving All-SWAC honors were punter Stephon Solomon, wide receiver Brian Haith and cornerback DeMarkus Washington. The Texas Southern Debate Team, led by Dr. Thomas Freeman, added to their storied history in 2008 by traveling to London in March for their 15th consecutive appearance at the International Forensic Association’s Annual International Tournament. In October, they joined the national champion Kansas Jayhawk team for a spirited debate on “The Impact of Race on Education,” presented by the Center for Humanities at the University of Kansas.
Success Stories • TSU Marching Band, the Ocean of Soul, was awarded $20,000 and its second consecutive
invitation to the Honda Battle of the Bands. This is the only competition that showcases the pageantry, showmanship and heritage of HBCU bands.
• Pamela Dyer and Candace Wiggins won the
Student National Pharmaceutical Association Patient Counseling Clinical Skills Competition. Dyer also TSU Student Government Association members and alumni met then-Presidential Candidate Barack Obama on his campaign stop in Houston in November 2008.
won the Student Pharmacist Excellence Award, Linda Ho won the Foundation Presidential Scholar- ship and Michael Nguyen won the Future Leaders
Last year our campus played host to several distinguished visitors. Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, Archbishop of Galveston-Houston, toured the university and met with our leadership and students, proclaiming he was impressed with the highly focused administration, energetic and talented students and passionate team working hard to make the future brighter for all students. Federal Judge Vanessa Gilmore gave the commencement address to our May graduates, and the year concluded on an inspirational note as Congressman and TSU Law alumnus Al Green addressed December’s graduating seniors. “When everyone else sits down, you must be the ones to stand up and stand for something,” he urged. “TSU was born out of a struggle, yet it has always graduated dynamic individuals who make a difference in the lives of others, in the community, the city and our great country. Out of the greatest adversity you will find great opportunity,” he concluded. We believe this to be a fitting theme for the university, for our students, and for life.
Regional Award.
• Graduate student Derrick Wilson won the Texas Business Hall of Fame Foundation Scholarship, which recognizes students for excellence in entrepreneurial spirit, personal integrity and community leadership.
• Airway Science major Drew Browne was one of
four recipients of the 2008 Ron Carter Wings Over Houston Airshow scholarship, honoring outstanding students pursuing a career in aviation and aerospace.
• Member of the SGA and Golden Key Honor Society, Princess Kandeh (below) was crowned Miss TSU 2008-2009. A Clinical Laboratory Science student, Kandeh aspires to owning her own clinic and laboratory to serve her community.
After winning seven conference games during the regular baseball season, TSU defeated Prairie View A&M to capture the 2008 SWAC Baseball Championship. The Tigers proudly represented the Southwestern Athletic Conference in the NCAA Division I Baseball Regional Tournament in 2008.
[ I N FRASTR UCTU R E]
Kristopher Krishna Graduate Student: Law Brooklyn, New York
[
Kris Krishna is driven to lead – not for his own ascension, but to help others lift themselves up.
]
Serving as the student regent on the Texas Southern University Board of Regents, Kris sees the university undergoing dramatic change, in both the look of our leadership and our campus. And, he’s making sure the students have a strong voice in these matters.
I
t’s arguable that there’s never been a greater year of change for TSU than 2008. Dr. John Rudley was inaugurated as our president, taking the university in a fresh, positive direction. Along with the new excitement lurked tough new challenges, the greatest of these being the devastation Hurricane Ike wrought on our campus. Times of change like these – the good and the bad – test and reveal the true mettle of our leaders, our institution, and our students. “I got involved with the Regents because I’m used to seeing problems and seeking solutions. I wanted to help improve the school. The world needs to know that this is the kind of place you can get a quality education and springboard your career if you take advantage of all the opportunities offered here. TSU has been instrumental to my goals. So I want to get involved and leave the school a better place than when I came to it.” No doubt when he’s done here Kris will go on to make the world a better place, too. Formerly a Captain in the U.S. Air Force, his next era of leadership includes a goal to work in the Harris County DA’s office, and eventually in politics. There he plans to affect change in education at all levels, making it more accessible so people can have the same opportunities he did. In essence, Kris wants to use his good education to breed good education.
In February of 2008 our 11th President, Dr. John Rudley, took the helm – getting to work immediately on his ambitious agenda for our future, which includes a detailed reorganization plan. Rudley intends to make Texas Southern an internationally respected global force, producing students who can compete with the best of the best not just in Houston, or Texas, or even the U.S., but anywhere in the world.
A Global Future
I N FRASTR UCTU R E
One of the most important steps toward that goal was the naming of a new Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Sunny Ohia, who is leading the charge toward positive change. Perhaps the most anticipated of these changes is TSU’s probation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Last year, a new Chief Financial Officer, Jim McShan, was put in place to oversee the university’s finances. Rudley, Ohia, McShan and the rest of the cabinet are optimistic that TSU has proven its strong ability to handle university governance and fiscal integrity, and that the probation will be lifted at the association’s next meeting in June 2009. It’s worth noting that the probation, imposed in 2007, was purely related to governance and finance. It had no relation to TSU’s full accreditation, the accreditation of its programs, and its well-proven excellence in academics.
16
Last year, Texas Southern secured $13.6 million from the state to be used for the university’s approved reorganization plan and facilities. In addition, $12.5 million was released for academic development and expansion of educational programs. These funds have greatly accelerated our progress.
Campus infrastructure is another area undergoing substantial change, and Hurricane Ike gave the university a not-so-gentle push. The campus was devastated by the September storm. Yet our students, faculty and even alumni put their own needs on hold when Texas Southern was asked by FEMA to be an official Point of Distribution. Many volunteers, including the entire TSU basketball team, tirelessly lent their much-needed hands as thousands of storm victims flocked to our campus over three days and were given water, ice, food and other resources. When the POD rolled out, it was time to roll up our sleeves and give our campus the attention it needed. Rehabilitating a campus also means beautifying it. Texas Southern is implementing a campus beautification program to provide a more modern, safe and academically conducive environment for students, prospective students and faculty. We are planning new lighting, sprinkler systems, better signage and a more accessible Tiger Walk – a central point of activity for students. Trees and grass have been planted across the Plaza with new benches in the works to provide leisure space for students. The front of the Student Center
The President’s Cabinet Dr. John Rudley
has been renovated to repair damaged stairs and create a more welcoming expanse to the facility. New Pavilions are going up near the football field for student and alumni groups. An additional 200 trees will be planted on the campus over the next year adding to the green feel of the university. Changes in campus infrastructure are being led by Chief Operating Officer Gloria Walker and Executive Director of Facilities Tim Rychlec. Walker, who was appointed COO in March 2008, brings two decades of experience in managing college administration to the job. She will play an active role in assisting Texas Southern University leadership with policies and procedures governing our various operations. The university is also taking big steps to improve its computing resources, hiring Chief Information Officer Billy Rector to direct the effort. A TSU graduate, Mr. Rector has more than 25 years of IT experience guiding his considerable efforts. Positive leadership changes seemed to be the theme of 2008 and our sports programs were no exception. We named a new Athletics Director, Charles McClelland, who came here from a highly successful seven-year tenure at Prairie View A&M, where he improved competitiveness in all 18 sports programs and increased athletic grant-in-aid to the maximum allowed by the NCAA.
President Eleventh president of Texas Southern University.
Dr. Sunny Ohia Provost, Vice President for Academic Affairs Chief Academic and Research Officer. Leads many of TSU’s new academic initiatives and is overseeing their complete and successful implementation.
Dr. James Douglas Executive Vice President Spearheading our Urban Academic Village. Key in implementing new admissions standards and Summer Academy.
Gloria Walker Chief Operating Officer Responsible for day-to-day operations of the university, with more than 20 years senior management experience in higher education.
Jim McShan Chief Financial Officer, Vice President for Finance Oversees the financial health of the university. Responsible for accounting, budgets, appropriations and all other financial matters.
Dr. Willie Marshall Vice President for Student Affairs, Dean of Students Has served TSU and the interests of its students for more than 34 years. Received his PhD in Higher Education from TSU.
Wendy Adair Vice President for University Advancement Helps elevate TSU to the next level. Guides marketing, communications, fundraising and alumni relations.
Gita Bolt General Counsel Directs all legal matters at the university and has served TSU for the last 13 years in various capacities.
Charles McClelland Director of Athletics Oversees all facets of the sports programs, including budgets, scheduling, fundraising, marketing and NCAA compliance. When Hurricane Ike devastated Houston, the greater TSU community responded. By becoming a Point of Distribution, the students, faculty and alumni were able to extend a hand to those who were in dire need of assistance after the storm.
Janis Newman President’s Chief of Staff Leading the development of new policy for TSU and Board of Regents, guided by 25 years of executive experience in higher education.
Clare Bailey TSU Alumna: Masters of Business Administration Houston, Texas
[ Clare Bailey makes things happen.] Clare Bailey makes things happen. At Texas Southern, she was president of Student Government and the debate team. Now she’s halfway through a fast-track managerial training program at Citgo as a supply and marketing specialist. And while she’s busy changing the world, she’s going to make sure that world knows all about the role TSU played in her life. “TSU is an oasis in the desert. It is hope for people who thought they could never get a quality education. And it is a vehicle to the boardroom. TSU’s own strength and success is that it creates individuals of strength and success. It has been indispensable in what I’ve achieved and will continue to be as I go forward in life.” Clare plans for that life path to eventually lead back to her native Jamaica, where she hopes to be elected to lead the country. Her political platform? Enhancing education.
University Financials
Over the past year Texas Southern has undergone significant changes in virtually every facet of the university’s operations. In early 2009 we received heartening news, and clear evidence that our efforts for change are working. In February a comprehensive financial audit was completed by independent auditors Belt Harris & Associates. We received a clean, unqualified audit for FY2007 and FY2008. The audit was triggered by the December 2007 probation placed on the university by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The clean report will no doubt play heavily in the expected lifting of the probation when the association meets in June 2009.
TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY FUNDING Texas Southern University is a state supported institution. Over the past year the regents and administration of Texas Southern University have worked very closely with the Offices of the Governor and Lt. Governor, the Legislative Budget Board, and many individual legislators to put in place and fully implement a strong reorganization plan. The plan was approved in May 2008 at which time the state released $12.5 million in reserved funding for academic programs and allocated $13.6 million to support the reorganization efforts and deferred maintenance needs. The FY2009 reserved funds of $12.5 million were released in January 2009. In FY2008, with the additional state support for the reorganization plan, approximately 49 percent of TSU’s budget came from state funds. Without the support of these many elected officials, the successes reported in the 2008 Annual Report would not have been possible.
FINANCIAL ANALYSIS OF TSU Net assets may serve over time as a useful indicator of TSU’s financial position. Assets exceed liabilities by $126,461,358 as of August 31, 2008. The largest portion of TSU’s net assets (44%) reflects its investments in capital assets (e.g., land, buildings and improvements, equipment, construction in progress, and infrastructure), less any debt used to acquire those assets that is still outstanding. TSU uses these capital assets to provide services to citizens; consequently, these assets are not available for future spending. Although TSU’s investment in its capital assets is reported net of related debt, it should be noted that the resources needed to repay this debt must be provided from other sources, since the assets themselves cannot be used to liquidate these liabilities.
BALANCE SHEET for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2008 2008
% of Total
ASSETS
Cash and Equivalents
Balance in Appropriations
Receivables
Investments
Net Capital Assets
$ 35,843,988
11%
27,822,572
8%
29,579,136
9%
46,648,321
14%
188,533,930
55%
Other Assets
11,834,191
3%
Total Assets
340,262,139
100%
30,094,264
14%
U N IVE RS ITY FI NANCIALS
LIABILITIES
20
Payables
Deferred Revenue
33,512,952
16%
Revenue Bonds
99,185,656
46%
General Obligation Bonds
32,543,570
15%
Accrued Claims and Judgments
12,074,101
6%
Other Liabilities
6,390,279
3%
Total Liabilities $213,800,821 100% NET ASSETS
$126,461,318
Invested in Net Capital Assets
55,913,422
44%
Expendable Endowments
30,012,334
24%
Other Restricted Assets
Unrestricted Assets
TOTAL NET ASSETS
9,019,845
7%
31,515,757
25%
$126,461,358
100%
CAPITAL ASSETS Major . capital asset events during the current year include the following: • Building improvements to the School of Public Affairs were completed at a cost of $14,177,020. • Various building renovations were added as construction in progress
at a total cost of $3,090,617.
Revenues and Expenses $250,000,000 $200,000,000 $150,000,000 $100,000,000 $50,000,000 0 Total Revenues Total Expenses
ECONOMIC FACTORS
2008
2007
The university experienced a significant change in the leadership of the institution and is in the process of restoring its financial integrity. The university also is currently in the process of reaccreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The results of the accreditation process could have a future impact on the financial position. More detailed information about TSU’s financial position is presented in the Annual Financial Report.
STATEMENT OF SOURCES AND USES for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2008 2008
% of Total
SOURCES
Legislative Appropriations
$ 99,912,441
49%
Tuition and Fees, Net of Discounts
43,338,980
21%
Gifts, Grants and Contract Revenue
44,794,057
22%
Other Sources
15,214,778
7%
Total Sources
203,260,256
100%
USES
Salaries and Benefits
90,733,406
53%
Operating Expenses
42,986,445
25%
Scholarships
16,541,425
10%
Non-Operating Expenses
22,386,163
13%
Total Uses
172, 647,439
100%
Beginning net assets
ENDING NET ASSETS
95,848,541 $126,461,358
U N IVE RS ITY FI NANCIALS
SOURCES OVER USES 30,612,817
21
Jessica Ramos Junior: Pre-Pharmacy Houston, Texas
[ Jessica Ramos is a giver. ] Graduating from Houston’s Barbara Jordan High School as Valedictorian, she had unlimited possibilities coming toward her. She chose to look outward, and channel her mind and talents to meeting the needs of others. Jessica entered the pharmacy program at Texas Southern, where she seeks a future of helping people get well and stay healthy. “You get so much here. I was given a scholarship and then in my freshman year I got to go to Orlando for a bio-medical symposium paid for by the university. TSU is very supportive of its students. I want to give back after I graduate – I don’t know in what way yet, but I definitely plan to keep TSU in my life.” Jessica hopes to attend graduate school here at TSU. She then plans to do a residency and use her exceptional mind to further the pharmacy profession.
Donor Honor Roll
Our donor honor roll highlights the thoughtful contributions of our alumni and friends. Texas Southern University sincerely thanks the individuals and organizations listed whose philanthropic gifts assisted our students and enhanced university programs. Your generosity is most appreciated.
We invite you to continue your support of Texas Southern University by participating in the 2009 Annual Fund Campaign. Your gift can help to change lives for the better. For more information, contact the University Development Office at 713.313.4276.
Enormous Generosity In January 2009 TSU received the first installment of a $1 million gift, given by TSU graduate and corporate CEO Kase Lawal. This is the largest gift from an alumnus in the history of the university. The funds will be provided over a 10-year period and will be used to establish the Lawal Center for Global Trade in the Jesse H. Jones School of Business. The mission of the Center will be to create state-of-the-art educational programming and scholarships in international business, to attract the nation’s premier faculty and students in the field.
From left to right: Glenn Lewis, Board of Regents Chairman; Kase Lawal; Joseph Boyd, Dean of School of Business; TSU President Dr. John Rudley.
Donor List FY2008 (September 1, 2007 – August 31, 2008) $250,000 to $499,999 Garb, Ronald & Karen $100,000 to $249,999 Bell, Estate of Everett O. Corp. for Public Broadcast Energy Future Holdings Greater Texas Foundation Houston Endowment $50,000 to $99,999 George Foreman Productions JP Morgan Chase The Coca-Cola Foundation The Welch Foundation $25,000 to $49,999 BP Corporation North America Inc. Chevron Chevron U.S.A Inc. Citgo Petroleum Fannie Mae Guiterrez, Baldemar Marathon Oil Company Texas Southern University National Alumni Assoc. The Fondren Foundation $10,000 to $24,999 Brackenridge Foundation Commonwealth Enterprise Leasing ExxonMobil Corporation Houston TSCPA Foundation Satterfield & Pontikes Construction, Inc. The Links, Inc., Western Area Walgreens $5,000 to $9,999 Centerpoint Energy Clarkson, Dr. Llayron Cooper Industsries CVS/Pharmacy Charitable Trust, Inc. Johnson & Johnson Marine Insurance Seminars, Inc. McGowan, Rosemary Oneok Foundation Inc. Mayer, Willard M. & Ruth Anheuser-Busch, Inc.
$1,000 to $4,999 Alexander, Ronnie Allen Boone Humpries (Robinson L.L.P) Allen, Willie Anheuser-Busch Cos., Inc. Anthony, Wilfred D. Arteriors Bailey, Rodney E. Baker Botts L.L.P Borroughs, Dr. Margaret T.G. BPZ Holding Inc. Buchanan, Demetra Cox, Gloria Dunn, Norma F. Dutton, Jr. Harold V. EGL Eagle Global Logistics Esirnus, Inc. FEI Scholarship Foundation First City Tower Fitch, Dr. Margaret Floyd, Willie Grant Fulbright & Jaworski L.L.P. Greater Houston Business Ethics Roundtable Hayes, Robert & Barbara Herrera, Ruben Holman Street Baptist Church Hurd Jr., Melvin Ikukauwa, Jude Jerusalem Baptist Church Knox, James T. Lambda Kappa Sigma, Alpha Sigma Chapter Langley, Alvin E. Lanier Operating Fund Luedicke, Anthony McLayton, Darego O. Maroon & Gray Club NACDS Foundation Nau III, John L. & Bobbie P.D.Q. Star Solutions LLC Port of Houston Authority Prosperity Bank Provost Healthcare Rudley, Drs. John & Docia Smith, Dorothy T. South Script Healthcare, Inc. Sterling McCall Toyota/Scion Texas Federation of Drug Stores Texas Society of Health-System Pharmacists
The University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston TSHP Research & Education Foundation Valero Services, Inc. Vernbro Medical Pharmacy, Inc. Vernon Mail Pharmacy, Inc. Walmart Watkins Jr., Ulysses W. Wells Fargo Bank, NA West, Rev. Ralph Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church Williams, Timothy $500 to $999 AACSB Abraham, Susan Akshar Inc., DBA Cunningham Airline Pharmacy Alief Baptist Church AT&T Beaumont ISD Benton, Judge Levy Boddie, Timothy Bullock, Emma Cobbin & Associates Coleman, Garnet F. Comcast Cook Jr., Felix L. Cosmetic Dentistry of Texas Cox, James E. Douglas, Dr. James Matthew El Paso Corporation Goodman, Gordon E. Greater St. Matthew Baptist Church Greater Texas Federal Credit Union Jefferson, Andrew L. Locke Lord Bissell & Liddell LLP Lowe, Dr. C.P. Marshall, Victor Mattis, Dalia Michael Plaza Pharmacy Moody, Brandon Moody, Warren Plummer Jr., Dr. Matthew Provost, Georgia Richard Turkco Corporation Roquemore, Richard Rucker, Rochelle Salwen, Richard Smith, Chad J. Stroud, Margaret
Tenet Healthcare Foundation Tyones, Eugene Unity National Bank Varghese, Shaji Walker, Mary Washington Missionary Baptist Church Washington Mutual $250 - $499 Adair, Wendy Barrs, James Bennett, Donna Canzano, Sylvia B. Lee & Peter L. Conoco Phillips Co. Creuzot III, Percy P. & Cheryl D. Deason, Dr. Charlesetta Diggles, Walter & Rossie Dillard, Aaron Doyce, Willie Dykes, James Fombon, Laetitia A. G C Health Services Inc. Galloway, Carol I. Giesecke, N.M. Global Impact Good Shepard Pharmacy Inc. Hemphill, Dennise R. Houston Area Alliance of Black School Educators Jackson, A.M. Jenkins, O.E. Kelley, Bennie L. Knudson & Associates Ligons, Robert Lundin, Carole L. Mays, Stanley Milton, Dr. Shirlette New Life in Christ Nwakamma, Roy K. Ogogor, Nkechi S. Palmer Pharmacy Plus Park Plaza Pharmacy PG & E Corporation Randle, Rubye Reliant Park Tatmon, Kathy A. Thurston, Paul Eugene Tudzin, Ellis L. Uraih, J.E.
We appreciate the gifts of our generous donors. Gifts received after September 1, 2008 will appear in next year’s Annual Report. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of our donor list. If you feel your name or gift is inaccurately reported, please contact the Development Office at 713.313.7097 to make changes.
Texas Southern University Board of Regents
Officers of Administration
Officers of Instructional Administration
Glenn O. Lewis Chairman (2007-2011)
John M. Rudley President
Gregory Maddox Interim Dean The Graduate School
Richard Salwen Vice Chair (2007-2013) Tracye McDaniel Second Vice Chair (2007-2015) Enrique Javier Loya Secretary (2007-2009) Gary Bledsoe (2007-2013) Samuel L. Bryant (2007-2011) Dionicio “Don” Flores (2009-2015) Richard C. Holland (2007-2013) Richard Knight, Jr. (2007-2011) Curtistene McCowan (2007-2015) Kristopher Krishna Student Regent (2008-2009)
Sunny E. Ohia Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs James M. Douglass Executive Vice President Jim McShan Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Gloria Walker Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Wendy Adair Vice President for University Advancement Willie Marshall Vice President for Student Services and Dean of Students Gita Bolt General Counsel Charles McClelland Athletics Director Janis Newman President’s Chief of Staff
Joseph Boyd Dean Jesse H. Jones School of Business James W. Ward Dean Tavis Smiley School of Communication Irvine Epps Dean College of Continuing Education Jay Cummings Dean College of Education McKen Carrington Dean Thurgood Marshall School of Law Merline Pitre Dean College of Liberal Arts and Behavioral Sciences Barbara Hayes Dean College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences John Sapp Interim Dean College of Science and Technology Theophilus Herrington Dean Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs
The Mission Of Texas Southern University Texas Southern University is a comprehensive, historically Black institution of higher education dedicated to providing quality instruction, scholarly research, and socially responsible public service. Consistent with its statutory designations as both a statewide general purpose and a special purpose institution for urban programming, the University offers bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and professional degrees. Committed to providing access and opportunity, the University enrolls an academically and ethnically diverse student body. Through their teaching and research, the distinguished faculty members produce competent graduates who are poised to make positive contributions to humanity. Texas Southern University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action institution. Minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Produced by the Texas Southern University Office of University Advancement. Printed on recycled paper. Not printed at state expense.
3100 Cleburne Street Houston, Texas 77004
www.tsu.edu