Former Texas Tech University President Dr. Robert W. Lawless Dead at 87

LUBBOCK, TX—The Texas Tech University community is mourning the loss of Dr. Robert W. Lawless, the university's 11th president, who passed away Saturday at the age of 87. Dr. Lawless, who served as president of Texas Tech University from 1989 to 1996, played a pivotal role in advancing the university's academic standing and expanding its Honors College. His contributions left a lasting legacy that continues to influence the institution today.

During his tenure at Texas Tech, Dr. Lawless was instrumental in elevating the university's national academic profile. He successfully led efforts to increase Tech's endowment from $40 million to $150 million and worked to secure the university's membership in the prestigious Association of Research Libraries. Among his many initiatives was the "Service Plus" program, which encouraged a culture of service-mindedness among students and staff—a legacy fondly remembered by alumni.

In a statement issued by Texas Tech University, current President Lawrence Schovanec expressed deep sorrow at the loss of Dr. Lawless. "The Texas Tech family is deeply saddened to learn of the death of Dr. Robert W. Lawless, the 11th president of Texas Tech University," Schovanec stated. "Dr. Lawless was a man of impeccable integrity who left a legacy of excellence, tirelessly working to raise the university’s national academic profile and pushing it toward fully realizing its immense potential. He was a dear friend and a personal mentor. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Marcy, and his family during this time of loss."

Texas Tech Alumni Association President Curt Langford also reflected on Dr. Lawless's impact on the university. "Sad to learn of the passing of former Texas Tech President Robert W. Lawless at the age of 87," Langford said. "One of his successful objectives was to get the University in the Association of Research Libraries, and he elevated Tech’s endowment from $40 million to $150 million. Dr. Lawless began the 'Service Plus' program at Texas Tech, challenging us all to be more service-minded with students. Proud to still have my certificate of completion signed by Bob. Prayers for Marcy and the family. Forever #OneOfUs."

Before his time at Texas Tech, Dr. Lawless had a distinguished career in academia and business. He earned his bachelor's degree in mathematics from the University of Houston and a Ph.D. in industrial engineering from Texas A&M University. His academic career spanned over three decades, including faculty positions at Texas A&M and the University of Houston. In addition to his academic roles, Dr. Lawless served as executive vice president and chief operations officer of Southwest Airlines from 1985 to 1989, prior to his selection as president of Texas Tech.

Dr. Lawless also served as president of the University of Tulsa from 1996 to 2004, following his departure from Texas Tech. His leadership was recognized on a national level, as he served as head of the NCAA's President's Commission and chairman of the board of directors for the College Football Association from 1990 to 1992.

Throughout his career, Dr. Lawless was known for his commitment to raising academic standards and fostering research excellence. In Lubbock, he was credited with securing increased funding for research at Texas Tech, recruiting top-tier faculty, and overseeing the university's transition to higher admission standards.

However, his tenure at Texas Tech was not without controversy. In 1993, Dr. Lawless faced criticism for remarks made in a letter in which he expressed personal disapproval of homosexuality. The letter sparked protests from the university's gay and lesbian community, who called for his resignation. Dr. Lawless later clarified that the views expressed in the letter were personal and that he would not discriminate against any students in his role as president.

Dr. Lawless is survived by his wife, Marcy, and their family.