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In a decisive move, the Troy University Board of Trustees has unanimously requested Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. to reconsider his decision to retire, urging him to remain at the helm of the institution. During a board meeting on Saturday, September 21, Board President Gibson Vance delivered the trustees’ firm message to Dr. Hawkins, affirming their commitment to his continued leadership.
“I’ve spoken with each member of the Board and they’ve asked me to deliver a message to you,” Vance addressed Dr. Hawkins directly. “It is with unanimous consent that we do not accept your resignation. Given the ongoing plans to move to R2 status and other initiatives now in motion, the Board is unanimous in its belief that Dr. Hawkins is the right person to lead our institution.”
Dr. Hawkins, who announced his intent to retire on September 3 in an email to faculty and staff, is the longest-serving chief executive of a public university in the United States. His leadership has been synonymous with Troy’s significant transformation since he assumed the chancellorship on September 1, 1989.
“I seldom find myself speechless, but I find myself that way today,” Dr. Hawkins said in response to the board’s appeal. “One thing [First Lady Janice Hawkins] and I have found at TROY is its unique culture, and I’m humbled and grateful for what has been said today. We’ve always preached ‘mission first’ and, as long as there is a mission that remains to complete, we will be here.”
Dr. Hawkins, a native of Mobile, Alabama, reflected on his initial announcement to retire, where he quoted Ecclesiastes: “In my retirement letter I referenced Ecclesiastes, which tells us there is a season for all things. I look forward to working with the Board to define what this new season will be.”
Under Hawkins’ tenure, Troy University has seen unprecedented growth and development. The administration has overseen more than $375 million in capital improvements across TROY’s four Alabama campuses, from new academic buildings to enhanced infrastructure. Dr. Hawkins has also spearheaded Troy’s expansion into a global institution, attracting international students and establishing teaching sites worldwide. Academic standards have been raised, new degree programs have flourished, and TROY’s intercollegiate athletics have risen to the highest level of NCAA competition.
The Board’s request reflects their belief that the vision for the university’s future is still best realized under the guidance of Dr. Hawkins. As the institution moves forward with initiatives such as the pursuit of R2 status—a prestigious research designation—the trustees remain united in their view that Dr. Hawkins should continue leading the way.
As discussions on the new season for TROY unfold, it appears that Dr. Hawkins’ legacy at the institution is far from over.
