Troy University chancellor rescinds retirement plan, will continue serving

TROY, Ala. (WSFA) - Troy University was gearing up for the announced retirement of Chancellor Jack Hawkins Jr. in 2025. That plan has changed, however, and Hawkins is staying with the university.The board of trustees had asked Hawkins to reconsider his decision to leave and had voted unanimously to reject his resignation. On Monday, Troy confirmed that Hawkins will continue serving as chancellor.Here is his statement:One of the things that makes Troy University unique is its culture, which reflects the commitment of each of you. On Saturday, the Board of Trustees asked that I reconsider my decision to retire. Janice and I were incredibly humbled and grateful for the heartfelt sentiments expressed during our board meeting. I believe TROY has the most dedicated and unified governing board in all higher education, and I am deeply appreciative to have their support. After consideration, Janice and I are honored to continue to serve as your Chancellor and First Lady. Our goal since arriving at Troy University has been to make this a world-class institution. We have already had much success on the path to that goal, but the journey continues. I am convinced that the greatest days are ahead for our extraordinary University, and as Helen Keller said, “together we can do so much.”Hawkins was named chancellor in September 1989 and is the longest-serving chief executive of a public university in Alabama. During his tenure, he has overseen almost $400 million in infrastructure improvements, including new academic buildings on all four campuses.He also grew Troy’s international program to attract students from around the world and set up teaching sites internationally.He also increased admission standards and helped establish new degree programs.Sign up for the WSFA Newsletter and get the latest local news and breaking alerts in your email!Copyright 2024 WSFA. All rights reserved.

TROY, Ala. (WSFA) – Troy University was gearing up for the announced retirement of Chancellor Jack Hawkins Jr. in 2025. That plan has changed, however, and Hawkins is staying with the university.

The board of trustees had asked Hawkins to reconsider his decision to leave and had voted unanimously to reject his resignation. On Monday, Troy confirmed that Hawkins will continue serving as chancellor.

Here is his statement:

One of the things that makes Troy University unique is its culture, which reflects the commitment of each of you. On Saturday, the Board of Trustees asked that I reconsider my decision to retire. Janice and I were incredibly humbled and grateful for the heartfelt sentiments expressed during our board meeting. I believe TROY has the most dedicated and unified governing board in all higher education, and I am deeply appreciative to have their support. After consideration, Janice and I are honored to continue to serve as your Chancellor and First Lady. Our goal since arriving at Troy University has been to make this a world-class institution. We have already had much success on the path to that goal, but the journey continues. I am convinced that the greatest days are ahead for our extraordinary University, and as Helen Keller said, “together we can do so much.”

Hawkins was named chancellor in September 1989 and is the longest-serving chief executive of a public university in Alabama. During his tenure, he has overseen almost $400 million in infrastructure improvements, including new academic buildings on all four campuses.

He also grew Troy’s international program to attract students from around the world and set up teaching sites internationally.

He also increased admission standards and helped establish new degree programs.

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