Huston-Tillotson University has reaffirmed its confidence in President Dr. Melva K. Wallace, unanimously approving a historic 10-year contract extension that will keep her at the helm through 2036—the first agreement of its kind in the University’s history.
The extension reflects the Board of Trustees’ confidence in Wallace’s leadership and the University’s strategic trajectory as HT continues its pursuit of becoming the foremost institution of higher education in Austin.
Since assuming the presidency, Wallace has led a period of transformational growth, strengthening the University’s fundraising capacity, advancing its long-term master plan, and expanding opportunities for students in areas including artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship, science, and workforce development. Her leadership has also helped secure landmark philanthropic investments, including the University’s historic gift from the Moody Foundation.
Board leaders praised Wallace for pairing bold vision with disciplined execution, noting her ability to build momentum, inspire confidence, and position Huston-Tillotson for long-term success. Trustees emphasized that her leadership has elevated both the student experience and the University’s national profile while laying the foundation for the next decade of institutional growth.
In accepting the extension, Wallace credited the achievement to the collective work of the University’s leadership, faculty, staff, students, alumni, trustees, donors, and community partners.
“This recognition is not mine alone,” Wallace said. “It belongs to every member of the HT family who has believed in our mission and helped move this institution forward.”