In honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, I’m sharing the rich history of an innovative academic and her impact on Houston.
Renu Khator broke barriers when she became chancellor of the University of Houston system and president of the University of Houston in 2008, marking her significant achievements in becoming the first female chancellor in Texas and the first Indian immigrant to lead a research university in the U.S.
As a student at Purdue University, she obtained a master’s degree and Ph.D. in political science. In 1985, she began a 22-year run at the University of South Florida, eventually becoming their provost and senior vice president.
Only three years into her time at the University of Houston, Khator helped the university reach Tier One status from the Carnegie Foundation. This prestigious recognition elevated the university’s reputation in the city and in the country. Khator continued to see achievements, including opening Houston’s first medical school in more than 40 years, a new 40,000-seat football stadium, improving graduation rates, and expanding both the University of Houston’s Sugar Land and Katy campuses. Khator also received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award in 2014 from Indian President Pranab Mukherjee, which is the highest distinction awarded to a non-resident of Indian origin.
For more on this trailblazing Texan, learn how the University of Houston has changed since Khator took office sixteen years ago.
I’m highlighting Houston’s AAPI history all month long. If you have an idea for me, email me.
