The Texas Tech University System Board of Regents has named Sen. Brandon Creighton as the sole finalist for chancellor, positioning the longtime legislator to lead one of the state’s largest higher education networks. The unanimous vote came Thursday, September 4, 2025, with the appointment set to be finalized after a 21-day state-mandated waiting period.
Creighton, a Republican from Conroe, has represented the Houston region in the Texas Legislature for nearly two decades. He will succeed Chancellor Tedd Mitchell, who is retiring but will remain in the role during the transition. Creighton will resign his Senate seat upon assuming office.
The system oversees Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Angelo State University in San Angelo, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, and Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls. “The Texas Tech University System has a proud history and limitless potential,” Creighton said in a statement. “From research and innovation to nationally prominent academic programs, it represents the very best of Texas. I am honored to be named sole finalist for chancellor and look forward to building on this momentum and leading the TTU System into its next era of success.”
As a legislator, Creighton has played a central role in reshaping Texas education policy. He authored the school voucher program approved this summer and wrote Senate Bill 17, which banned diversity, equity, and inclusion offices in higher education and K-12 schools. He also sponsored Senate Bill 37, altering governance structures between university boards and faculty. Supporters argue these measures restore merit-based decision-making, while critics, including the American Association of University Professors in Texas, warn they could weaken academic freedom and shared governance.
Texas Tech joins other major state systems in turning to political leaders for executive roles. Glenn Hegar, former Texas comptroller, became chancellor of the Texas A&M University System in July, while former state Rep. John Zerwas was appointed to lead the University of Texas System in August.
Board Chairman Cody Campbell said Creighton’s background made him the right choice to lead the system. “Sen. Creighton is just an incredibly good cultural fit for West Texas and for everything that Texas Tech stands for,” he said. “With his leadership, I am confident we will continue to accelerate our progress, strengthen our communities, and expand our impact across the state and beyond.”
