State Sen. Brandon Creighton was officially named the sole finalist for the position of chancellor and CEO for the Texas Tech University System at a Sept. 4 board of regents meeting, according to a Sept. 4 news release.

“The Texas Tech University System has a proud history and limitless potential,” Creighton said via news release. “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.”

Creighton represents Texas Senate District 4, which encompasses portions of Montgomery, Harris, Chambers, Jefferson and Galveston counties.

In a nutshell

On Aug. 31, Cody Campbell, chair of the TTU System board of regents, announced via the social platform X that Creighton was expected to be named to the position, Community Impact previously reported.


Creighton has served in the Texas Senate since 2014, and prior to that, was a member of the Texas House, according to the District 4 website.

There is a 21-day waiting period required by state law before final action can be taken on Creighton’s employment, according to the news release.

What else?

During a Texas Senate session Sept. 3, Senate Resolution 87, which congratulates Creighton on his appointment, was read.


“This institution not only inherits his leadership, but also his deep sense of purpose, integrity and Texas values,” State Sen. Donna Campbell, who authored SR 87, said.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick said, “We know [Creighton is] going to be successful.”

“And we’re proud of you,” Patrick said. “And we know we’re going to see you back here ... Don’t expect any favors. We’re going to treat you just like the rest of them. But we are proud of you, and this is really a historic moment, and Texas Tech made the right decision for all of Texas.”

Creighton, in his remarks on the Texas Senate floor, said he is more in awe of the Capitol building today than he was when he first saw it.


“It’s tied to not just the architecture, but the people I’m able to work with—each of you that have been incredible allies or unmistakable amazing adversaries and I have great respect for each and every one of you ... and I will always be holding that in my heart,” Creighton said. “I wouldn’t be leaving the Senate for another opportunity if I felt for one second that Texas would not be positioned for greatness because of who’s here remaining.”

Leadership Montgomery County will also honor Creighton during the nonprofit’s Leadership Summit on Sept. 19 at the new Kevin Brady Library and Community Center.

What they’re saying
  • “The Texas Tech University System is at a pivotal moment,” Campbell said via news release. “With Senator Creighton as our next chancellor, I am confident we will continue to accelerate our progress, strengthen our communities, and expand our impact across the state and beyond.”
  • “The Texas Tech University System Board of Regents conducted a comprehensive search with numerous outstanding candidates,” Dustin R. Womble, vice chairman of the TTU System Board of Regents, said via news release. “Senator Brandon Creighton stood out as the right person to guide the Texas Tech University System into its next era of success.”
  • “I am proud of all we have accomplished during my tenure and am confident in passing the baton to Senator Creighton. ... I look forward to how he will continue to elevate and strengthen the System as its new Chancellor, and through this role, continue serving the people of our great state,” outgoing chancellor Tedd Mitchell said via news release.
Community Impact reached out to Creighton’s office for additional comment, and this story may be updated.