Texas Tech System Chancellor Tedd Mitchell Announces Retirement After 15 Years of Transformative Leadership

LUBBOCK, TX July 11, 2025 Dr. Tedd L. Mitchell, the esteemed Chancellor of the Texas Tech University System, announced today his plan to retire within the year, concluding a remarkable 15-year tenure of leadership that has profoundly shaped the institution's growth and impact across Texas.

Mitchell, who has served as Chancellor since 2018 and previously as President of the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) for nearly a decade, shared his decision in a message to the Texas Tech community. He indicated he would remain in his post until a successor is named, ensuring a smooth transition for the sprawling 64,000-student system.

"Those of us who serve as leaders are only carrying a baton for the moment," Mitchell stated in his announcement. "Between my roles as President and Chancellor, I have served far longer in system leadership than any of my predecessors, and while carrying this baton has been a true privilege and joy, I feel it is now my time to texas tech news? prepare to pass the baton to someone new."

Mitchell's leadership has been marked by a period of unprecedented expansion and achievement for the Texas Tech University System. Under his guidance, the System saw the creation of the state's first new veterinary medicine school in over a century, located in Amarillo, and the establishment of a dental school in El Paso both of which recently celebrated their inaugural graduating classes.

His tenure also saw Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls officially join the Texas Tech University System in 2021, expanding the System to five component universities. Mitchell was also instrumental in securing significant legislative funding, including the establishment of the Texas University Fund (TUF) which will provide ongoing support for research institutions like Texas Tech University.

Board of Regents Chairman Cody Campbell lauded Mitchell's contributions, stating, "Throughout his tenure, Tedd has led the charge to transform our system and advance innumerable historic initiatives for our universities, and in doing so, has improved countless lives in West Texas, across our state and around the country. We are grateful for his wisdom, innovative spirit and far-reaching impact, and congratulate him on his well-deserved retirement."

Beyond physical and programmatic expansion, Mitchell also implemented a values-based culture within the System Administration, emphasizing "People First, Integrity, Community, Respect, and Exemplary Service."

Mitchell's retirement comes at a dynamic time for higher education in Texas, with ongoing discussions around issues like diversity, equity, and inclusion, and the evolving landscape of campus environments. He navigated these challenges with a steady hand, consistently advocating for the System's mission and its vital role in the state.

The Texas Tech University System Board of Regents will begin the search for Mitchell's successor in the coming months. Further details regarding the transition are expected to be discussed at the upcoming Board of Regents Meeting in August.

As Mitchell prepares for his next chapter, which he noted will involve spending more time with his growing family, his legacy of visionary leadership and transformative growth will undoubtedly continue to resonate throughout the Texas Tech University System and beyond.