TSU Foundation Welcomes Visionary Leader as New Executive Director

TSU Foundation Welcomes Visionary Leader as New Executive Director

Posted on Wednesday, April 02, 2025

The Texas Southern University Foundation (TSUF) has named visionary leader Robin Tanya Humphries Watson as its new Executive Director. Watson is a seasoned and visionary executive leader with extensive experience in higher education, leadership, fundraising, and community engagement to this pivotal role.

She has dedicated her career to fostering educational opportunities and community development. With over two decades of experience in nonprofit management, she has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence and innovation. Watson's most recent role was as the Development Director at CORE, powered by the Rogers Foundation, in Las Vegas, Nevada. In this role, she led numerous successful campaigns and initiatives that significantly increased donor engagement and contributions.

"Robin's visionary leadership and deep understanding of our mission will undoubtedly propel the Foundation to new heights," said Dr. Frazier Wilson, Chairman of Texas Southern University Foundation.

Watson spent nearly eight years at Tennessee State University, where she served as Assistant Vice President of Institutional Advancement, increasing the university's endowment by $19 million.

"Returning to serve at an HBCU feels intensely personal," Watson said. "It's a full-circle moment grounded in legacy, purpose and a commitment to building stronger pathways for the next generation. To be in a position to help expand access, raise resources, and support the dreams of TSU students is a privilege."

Watson is not only a respected professional but also an active member in her community. She has served on the boards of several organizations, including the Southern Economic Mobility Network, Nevada Women in Film and The Nonprofit Center in Jacksonville, FL. Her passion for community service and her ability to build meaningful relationships will be instrumental in strengthening the Foundation's impact.

In her new capacity, Watson's role will be to advance the TSU Foundation's mission by expanding philanthropic reach, aligning fundraising priorities with university goals, and fostering sustainable growth through strategic partnerships.

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