Texas Southern University Appoints Former Tuskegee President as Interim Dean of Public Affairs School
Texas Southern University Welcomes Dr. Gilbert L. Rochon as Interim Dean
Texas Southern University (TSU) has chosen Dr. Gilbert L. Rochon, a distinguished leader in the field of higher education, to serve as the interim dean of the Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs (SOPA). Known for his extensive experience in academia and public administration, Dr. Rochon brings a wealth of knowledge to this crucial role.
Dr. Rochon previously held the position of the sixth president at Tuskegee University from November 2010 to October 2013, where he also earned the title of university professor. His impressive career highlights include serving as the Associate Vice President for Collaborative Research and Engagement at Purdue University for more than eight years and as a Research Community Planner with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). With over 30 years of experience in higher education and public administration, he is well-equipped to lead SOPA during this transitional period.
Dr. Carl B. Goodman, TSU's Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, expressed enthusiasm regarding Dr. Rochon’s appointment, stating, "Our School of Public Affairs is a national research and career preparation leader. We are pleased that Dr. Rochon will bring his research-driven leadership to assess and evaluate the school's future direction while the University engages in a national search for a permanent Dean."
With a Ph.D. in urban and regional planning from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and a Master's in Public Health from Yale University, Dr. Rochon is highly qualified. His bachelor's degree is from Xavier University of Louisiana. Moreover, he has been involved in federal appointments with NASA, the Department of Defense, the USDA Forest Service, and the EPA, contributing to his well-rounded profile.
Upon his appointment, Dr. Rochon expressed his excitement about leading the accomplished faculty and staff at SOPA. "This school is known industry-wide, and throughout academia, for the research that these men and women do daily and for the opportunities it provides students to commence from their program prepared to thrive in their chosen field," he remarked. He emphasized his commitment to enhancing the services provided to students, aiming to better prepare them for successful careers.
Dr. Rochon’s official start date will be February 10, marking the beginning of a promising chapter for the Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs. As TSU embarks on a national search for a permanent dean, Dr. Rochon’s leadership is poised to guide the institution in delivering quality education and creating pathways for students to achieve their aspirations in the public affairs domain.
With Dr. Rochon at the helm, Texas Southern University is set to strengthen its role as a leader in public affairs education, equipping students with the tools and experiences they need to make meaningful impacts in their communities and beyond.