Texas Southern will have a new athletic director for the time being.
As Kevin Granger has been on leave since early June in light of a sexual harassment lawsuit, the university announced Friday that Dr. Paula Jackson will serve as interim athletic director, according to Terrance Harris of The Defender.
The Defender’s report cited a “no comment” quote from Granger’s attorney Letitia Quinnones-Hollins regarding the announcement and Granger’s future at Texas Southern.
“I am excited to join the Texas Southern University family as the Interim Athletic Director and to contribute to its proud legacy of excellence,” Jackson said in a statement. “Texas Southern is uniquely positioned to be a national leader in the evolving landscape of college athletics, and I look forward to collaborating with our student athletes, coaches, staff, alumni and community partners to create innovative opportunities, build sustainable success and ensure our student athletes are prepared to excel both on the field and beyond.”
Dr. Jackson is very familiar with the HBCU landscape, earning a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism from Southern University and a Master of Business Administration degree from Clark Atlanta University. She has worked in athletics at Hampton, Lincoln (Mo.), Norfolk State and Mississippi Valley State.
“Texas Southern University is committed to ensuring stability, vision, and leadership for our student-athletes,” Texas Southern President J.W. Crawford II said in a statement released by the university. “Dr. Paula Jackson is well prepared to step into this role. Her record of achievement, innovative approach, and ability to build strong partnerships will help maintain continuity and momentum within our athletics department. She brings both experience and dedication that will serve our student-athletes and community well.”