The HBCU Campaign Fund (HCF) applauds the Huston-Tillotson University Board of Trustees for unanimously approving 10-year contract extension for President and CEO Dr. Melva K. Wallace, reaffirming its confidence in her leadership and vision for one of the nation’s historic HBCUs.
Dr. Wallace, who became Huston-Tillotson University’s seventh president and CEO in 2022, has established herself as a dynamic leader committed to advancing student success, institutional growth, and the continued strength of the HBCU community. Huston-Tillotson has highlighted growth in fundraising, enrollment, partnerships, infrastructure investment, and online learning during her tenure.
HCF has firsthand recognized Dr. Wallace’s leadership. HCF named her to The Ten Most Dominant HBCU Leaders of 2026 and Ninth Class Honors, recognizing her servant leadership, advocacy for higher education, and commitment to advancing the legacy and future of HBCUs.
“Dr. Melva Wallace represents the type of bold, visionary and transformational leadership that HBCUs need in this moment. Her 10-year contract extension is a strong vote of confidence in her leadership and in the direction of Huston-Tillotson University. We were proud to recognize Dr. Wallace as one of The Ten Most Dominant HBCU Leaders, and today we are even more proud to celebrate this significant milestone with her, the university’s Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, students, alumni and the entire Huston-Tillotson University community.”
— Demetrius Johnson, Jr., Founder, President & CEO, HCF
Dr. Wallace’s leadership has also earned recognition beyond HCF. In 2026, she was selected as the inaugural recipient of the Texas Alliance of Black School Educators’ College/University President of the Year Award, honoring her effective leadership, commitment to student success and institutional impact.
For HCF, the Board’s decision represents more than an extension of a presidential contract. It is an investment in continuity, vision and the future of an institution with deep roots in the Austin community. Huston-Tillotson University traces its history to 1875 and remains an important part of the national HBCU landscape.
Congratulations to Dr. Wallace on this historic 10-year contract extension. The future of HTU is bright.
About the HBCU Campaign Fund
The HBCU Campaign Fund (HCF) is an educational non-profit and advocacy organization dedicated to supporting HBCUs and MSIs. Founded in 2012, its core mission focuses on raising funds for student scholarships, developing campus programming, and advocating for higher education equity. For more information, visit www.hbcucampaignfund.org.
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