Texas Southern University is facing a serious controversy following sexual assault allegations made against longtime athletic director Kevin Granger. According to a newly filed civil lawsuit, Granger is accused of sexually harassing and assaulting a female TSU employee in his office earlier this year.
The lawsuit, filed in Harris County, details an alleged incident on April 30, 2025, where Granger reportedly invited the employee to his office under false pretenses. Once there, he allegedly made a series of vulgar and sexually suggestive remarks, placed a $100 bill on the desk, and challenged her to remove and put back on her clothing in under a minute. The suit claims Granger continued his advances by telling the employee he could help elevate her career if she agreed to perform sexual acts.
The woman states she felt shocked and humiliated by the encounter and alleges that Granger continued to send her inappropriate messages in the days and weeks that followed. She has since filed a police report with the Harris County District Attorney’s Office, and legal proceedings are now underway.
While Texas Southern University is not named as a defendant in the lawsuit, the school has responded by placing Granger on administrative leave pending an independent investigation. In a public statement, TSU emphasized that it takes all allegations of misconduct seriously and reaffirmed its commitment to creating a safe environment for students, faculty, and staff.
Granger, who has spent decades with the university as a former student-athlete, coach, and athletic administrator, has not made a public statement since the lawsuit was filed. His leadership at TSU has been marked by both athletic success and institutional loyalty, making these allegations especially impactful within the Tiger community.
The incident has prompted discussions across campus and among TSU alumni about the broader issues of workplace harassment and accountability in leadership roles. Student leaders and advocacy groups have already called for greater transparency in the investigation process and for the university to ensure protections for all employees moving forward.
This case comes at a time when many institutions are being urged to take stronger stands against sexual misconduct, especially when high-ranking officials are involved. As TSU continues its internal review and the legal case proceeds, students, alumni, and the wider HBCU community will be watching closely.
The hope is that Texas Southern will handle this matter with the seriousness and integrity it demands—bringing justice to those affected and putting in place stronger systems of accountability for the future.