Texas Sen. Brandon Creighton Named Chancellor of Texas Tech University System

On Tuesday, the Texas Tech University System Board of Regents officially appointed State Sen. Brandon Creighton as chancellor and chief executive officer, concluding a 21-day waiting period that followed his designation as the sole finalist earlier this month.

During a specially convened meeting of the Board of Regents on September 30, the appointment was officially confirmed, as reported by KAMC. Creighton, the current representative for District 4 in the Texas Senate, is set to step down from his position to take on a new role.

Creighton is set to assume the role of chancellor-elect immediately, working closely with Chancellor Dr. Tedd Mitchell to facilitate a seamless transition. Mitchell, at the helm of the system since 2018, is set to transition into a new advisory role on November 19, assuming the titles of Chancellor Emeritus and President Emeritus of Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center.

In a recent statement, Creighton expressed his honor in taking the helm of the university system. “It is with great pride that I announce my commitment to the Texas Tech University System, which is poised to establish a benchmark for higher education. I am eager to become "I am honored to be part of this esteemed family and to take on the role of Chancellor," he stated. “With the unwavering support of the Board of Regents and the dedication of our faculty, staff, and students, we are poised to broaden opportunities, lead in innovation, and guarantee that the TTU System remains a shining example of what propels Texas and the nation ahead.”

Creighton, a Republican who first took office in the Senate in 2014, led the Higher Education Committee and had a significant influence on statewide education policy. The regents' decision to appoint him underscores their commitment to fostering growth and enhancing the visibility of the TTU System, which encompasses five component universities and spans several campuses.

On September 4, the Board of Regents announced Creighton as the sole finalist for the position. In accordance with legal requirements, state university systems are required to observe a 21-day waiting period before officially confirming a chancellor's appointment.

Officials have announced that they will ensure a seamless transition as Mitchell assumes his new position. In the meantime, Creighton and Mitchell will work closely together to advance the current initiatives.