Troy University has announced that its Chancellor, Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., the longest-serving CEO of any public university in the nation, will retire at the end of 2028, following a planned three-year leadership transition. The retirement timeline, announced with the Board of Trustees’ endorsement, comes one year after the Board asked him to delay his stepping down.
Under the plan, Dr. Hawkins will continue serving as Chancellor through Dec. 31, 2027, before moving into an advisor role for his final year at the University.
Gibson Vance, President Pro Tem of the Troy University Board of Trustees, said the extended transition honors Hawkins’ nearly 4 decades of leadership.
“Over the past several decades, Troy University has reached unprecedented heights in service to the people of Alabama and the world,” Vance said. “Dr. Hawkins’ leadership has been critical to that success. As we look toward the future, the Trustees will remain focused on continuing the success we have enjoyed while we celebrate and honor Dr. Hawkins’ extraordinary legacy of leadership and service.”
Dr. Hawkins was appointed Chancellor of the Troy State University System on Sept. 1, 1989, and has since led profound growth in academics, infrastructure, global outreach and support for military students.
During his tenure, more than $400 million has been invested in capital improvements, including new academic facilities across all Alabama campuses. His leadership guided Troy University’s expansion into an international institution, attracting record numbers of international students and establishing global teaching locations.
As a Marine Corps combat veteran of the Vietnam War, he has also prioritized support for military-connected students, earning repeat Best for Vets recognition from Military Times.
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Dr. Hawkins credited teamwork across the Trojan community for the University’s progress. “I am proud of what my wife and I have been blessed to achieve at Troy University, and I’d like to emphasize that nothing is ever done without a team,” he said. “This transition plan… will allow us to move toward retirement over the next three years while ensuring that TROY is well positioned for continued success in the decades to come.”
University leaders and alumni say Hawkins has set a standard of student-focused leadership. “He has been a visionary servant-leader who has always put students first,” said Jeff Coleman, Chair of the TROY Foundation Board of Directors. “He is a tremendous man of faith and patriotism, and I am grateful for all that he and Mrs. Hawkins have accomplished together.”
Jack Weaver, President of the Troy Alumni Board, said graduates around the world feel the Chancellor’s impact. “All 175,000 alumni worldwide admire him deeply, not only for his vision and integrity, but also the lasting impact he has made on every corner of our University,” Weaver said.
A native of Mobile, Dr. Hawkins has raised academic standards, launched new degree programs, and advanced intercollegiate athletics to the highest level of NCAA competition. His influence, supporters say, will continue shaping Troy University long after the transition is complete.
Weaver said alumni stand behind the Chancellor as his tenure winds down. “While we are saddened to see him step away, we stand united during this transition period,” he said. “His legacy will endure.”
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
