HTU President Dr. Melva K. Wallace Recognized as Texas Alliance of Black School Educators’ College/University President of the Year Award

UNCF-member institution Huston-Tillotson University President Melva K. Wallace recognized as the 2026 recipient of the Texas Alliance of Black School Educators (TABSE) College/University President of the Year Award.

“Dr. Wallace demonstrates effective leadership, advances student success and strengthens institutional impact,” according to the TABSE Higher Education and Research Commission, which selected her as the award’s inaugural recipient.

“I am honored to be the first recipient of this prestigious award,” Dr. Wallace said in a press release on the university’s website. “I want to thank TABSE for recognizing not just me, but the collective efforts of our faculty, staff, students and supporters to advance HT’s mission.”

Huston-Tillotson University has expanded partnerships, grown investment in campus infrastructure and improved engagement among industry and community organizations, under Dr. Wallace’s leadership. TABSE highlighted Dr. Wallace’s commitment to collaboration across educational sectors and her championing of initiatives that connect higher education with K-12 systems and community stakeholders.

TABSE honored Dr. Wallace during an awards gala on Feb. 21 at the Omni Las Colinas in Irving, TX.