Creighton Steps In as Texas Tech’s New Chancellor, Eyes AAU Status and AI Expansion

The new chancellor of the Texas Tech University System emphasizes that the trajectory of the state's third-largest higher education network will hinge on increasing enrollment, enhancing research capabilities, and a bold initiative in artificial intelligence.

On November 19, Brandon Creighton officially took over the leadership of the system, marking the transition of Dr. Tedd Mitchell into a chancellor emeritus position. In the days leading up to his inauguration, Creighton engaged with the West Texas Homebuilders Association during a statewide listening tour. He presented his initial vision for the system's trajectory, with a focus on Texas Tech University's growing national presence.

This fall, Tech announced its largest first-year class to date, resulting in a historic enrollment of 42,272 students. The total shows a rise of over 1,200 compared to the previous year, marking the fourth consecutive year of record-breaking figures. Creighton reported that interest is on the rise. “The applications for new enrollment into the university have seen a significant increase compared to this time last year, nearly tripling,” he said.

Creighton attributed the increase to several contributing factors. He highlighted exceptional academic accomplishments, notably the impressive national exam results of the Texas Tech School of Veterinary Medicine. The program achieved the top pass rate on the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination in Texas and ranked second in the country.

He also highlighted the increasing prominence of Texas Tech Athletics. For the first time in nearly two decades, ESPN’s “College GameDay” made its way to Lubbock this fall, shining a spotlight on the Red Raiders. The integration of academics and athletics, according to Creighton, is enhancing the university’s reputation well beyond Texas. “I wouldn’t claim that Texas is focusing more on Texas Tech,” he stated. “It seems like everyone across the nation is likely discussing Texas Tech.”

One of Creighton's key objectives is to achieve membership in the Association of American Universities. He stated that universities in Texas have traditionally fallen behind in securing research funding because of antiquated state policy. Five years ago, a significant shift occurred as lawmakers enabled institutions like Texas Tech and the University of Houston to seek Tier One research designations. Securing AAU status, Creighton noted, would open the door to increased federal research funding in Tech’s key areas—national defense, agriculture, healthcare, and energy.

Creighton also emphasized the system’s advancement in AI infrastructure. AI has made its way into classroom instruction, and plans are underway to expand its role in the rapidly growing data center industry. A recent announcement revealed a collaboration with AI company Fermi to create 18 million square feet of data centers utilizing a combination of nuclear, solar, wind, and natural gas energy sources.