Dear UHD Faculty, Staff and Students,

I am pleased to announce the appointment of Deborah E. Bordelon as interim president of the University of Houston-Downtown, effective May 1.

As you know, Bordelon is the chief academic officer and provost for the University of Houston-Downtown and a seasoned leader in higher education. Since her 2022 appointment as provost, she has significantly aided President Blanchard in elevating the University’s student outcomes and prominence. Moreover, she is a first-generation student who worked her way through college, revealing her tenacity and determination to succeed.

Prior to joining UHD, Bordelon served as provost and executive vice president of Columbus State University, and as provost and vice president of academic affairs for Governors State University. She earned her doctorate in Special Education, her master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction and her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of New Orleans.

A national search for the next president of UHD will soon begin. As mentioned in my March message, I will appoint the remaining search committee members this month to assist me in this very important decision. They will bring you further updates on the search process.

Thank you for further advancing UHD into a premier university, where students from all walks of life can reach their full potential.

With warm regards,

Renu Khator
Chancellor, UH System