New Endowment Established by Texas Southern University
Texas Southern University (TSU) is excited to unveil the creation of the William A. Lawson Endowment, a scholarship initiative that pays tribute to the remarkable legacy of Rev. Dr. William A. Lawson, a highly respected figure in the civil rights movement and a guiding light within the community.
This endowment is initiated with a generous contribution of $200,000 from Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, which TSU's Office of Civil Rights has matched, bringing the total to $400,000.
"Rev. Dr. William A. Lawson was a pillar in our community who embodied the values of education and faith," said TSU president James W. Crawford III. "Through this endowment, we celebrate his legacy while empowering future generations to follow in his footsteps to fearlessly speak truth to power while operating with humility, grace, and commitment to service over self."
Eligibility Criteria for the Lawson Endowed Scholarship
The William A. Lawson Endowed Scholarship is designed for full-time undergraduate students at TSU who fulfill the following criteria:
- Maintain good academic standing with the University
- Achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75
- Pursue a degree in Political Science, Theology, Psychology, Sociology, or Education
Students awarded this scholarship not only receive financial aid but also embrace the ideals that Rev. Lawson championed—academic excellence, community involvement, and social justice.
Community Commitment Highlighted
"This endowment is a testament to the commitment of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church and the Lawson family to academic excellence," stated Dr. Marcus D. Cosby, Senior Pastor of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church. "Texas Southern University students have been a vital part of our church's mission since our founding in 1962. We are honored to collaborate with TSU in honoring our Founding Pastor through this impactful initiative. We eagerly anticipate the positive influence this endowment will have on each scholarship recipient and the many lives they will touch in return."
The Legacy of Rev. Dr. William A. Lawson
Rev. Dr. William A. Lawson, a beloved pastor and civil rights advocate, holds a significant place in both the university's and church's history. He moved to Houston to lead the Baptist Student Union at Texas Southern University while also serving as a Bible professor. Initially, the Lawsons organized the church in their home on TSU's campus, which served as the hub for the Baptist Student Union.
Rev. Lawson's unwavering commitment to equality, faith, and education has inspired generations. Through the establishment of this endowment, his vision for a more equitable and educated society will continue to grow within the Texas Southern community.
About Texas Southern University
Texas Southern University (TSU) is a pivotal institution, dedicated to providing urban programming and research opportunities. TSU serves those underserved communities and offers academic programs that address significant urban challenges while preparing a diverse student body for meaningful contributions in society. Established in 1927, TSU proudly stands as one of the most respected and diverse educational entities in the region.
Contact Information
For further inquiries, please reach out to:
Tracy Clemons
713-313-7371
832-986-9101 [cell]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the William A. Lawson Endowment?
The William A. Lawson Endowment is a scholarship initiative honoring Rev. Dr. William A. Lawson, designed to support students at Texas Southern University.
Who is eligible for the scholarship?
Full-time undergraduate students at TSU with a GPA of 2.75 or higher pursuing specific degrees can apply.
How much funding is provided through the endowment?
The combined initial funding for the endowment is $400,000, sourced from Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church and TSU.
What values does the Lawson Endowment promote?
The endowment promotes academic excellence, community service, and social justice, reflecting Rev. Lawson's legacy.
How can one learn more about Texas Southern University?
Additional information about Texas Southern University and its programs can be found on its official website.
