TSU Names Shawn Thierry Executive Director for Policy and Counsel

TSU Names Shawn Thierry Executive Director for Policy and Counsel

Posted on Tuesday, February 11, 2025

Texas Southern University (TSU) has appointed Attorney Shawn Thierry as Executive Director for Policy and Counsel. The newly established role will serve in the Office of Board Relations alongside the Executive Director for Board Relations.

Thierry's policy background includes service in the Texas state government's legislative and executive branches. She represented Houston's District 146 in the Texas House of Representatives for four terms, twice serving as Vice Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, serving as Vice Chair of the Sustainable Property Tax Relief Committee, and serving as a member of the committees on Energy Resources, Land & Resources Management, County Affairs, and Juvenile Justice & Family Issues. Thierry currently serves on the Texas Juvenile Justice Board, to which Governor Greg Abbott appointed her in January 2025.

"I am excited to join Texas Southern University as Executive Director for Policy and Counsel," Thierry said. "As an alumna of the Thurgood Marshall School of Law, returning to TSU is an honor and a blessing. I am eager to offer my combined experience as an attorney, state legislator, and policy expert to advancing the University's mission. I look forward to supporting the Board of Regents in prioritizing student success and preparing graduates to contribute to the thriving Texas economy. Go Tigers!"

In this role, Thierry will advise the Board of Regents on federal, state, and local policy issues, coordinate special projects, and provide strategic and legal counsel. Thierry is the second veteran state legislator hired by TSU this academic year, joining her former Texas House of Representatives colleague, Dr. James White, who serves as Vice President for Governmental Affairs and Civic Engagement.

"The Honorable Shawn Thierry is recognized nationally for her policy advocacy and legislative effectiveness, especially on behalf of vulnerable populations," said Chairman of the Board of Regents Brandon L. Simmons. "Shawn offers decades of legal experience along with the knowledge and relationships accrued as an elected official and gubernatorial appointee. We look forward to the many contributions she will make in service of TSU students and Texas taxpayers."

Thierry is a Houston native and graduate of Howard University and Texas Southern University's Thurgood Marshall School of Law.

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