Inauguration of 11th Chancellor in TCU history underscores commitment to values, student-centered growth, research excellence and community impact
FORT WORTH, Texas (Nov. 6, 2025) — Texas Christian University inaugurated Daniel W. Pullin today as the 11th chancellor in the university’s history, marking TCU’s first leadership transition in nearly 22 years. Pullin’s selection signals the next chapter in the university’s national trajectory — one focused on student success and impact, accelerating research growth and strengthening Fort Worth’s innovation ecosystem.
Held in Van Cliburn Concert Hall at TCU in the Megan and Victor Boschini Music Center, the ceremony brought together more than 30 academic delegates and university presidents from across the country, along with faculty, students, alumni, trustees and members of the Fort Worth community. The standing-room-only event blended academic tradition with institutional purpose, underscoring TCU’s identity as a distinctive academic institution where excellence, community and values intersect.
TCU Board of Trustees Chair Kit Moncrief welcomed attendees and underscored Pullin’s leadership and momentum since stepping into the role. “Chancellor Pullin has embraced every facet of TCU with energy, authenticity and purpose,” Moncrief said. “His deep understanding of strategy and community engagement has already strengthened our university, positioning us for even greater success. He is a great leader of people — fostering collaboration and championing innovation that will shape not only TCU, but the future of higher education.”
Pullin emphasized that his leadership approach begins with people and is anchored in TCU’s mission. “To invest in this extraordinary university is to embrace the responsibility of servant leadership,” Pullin said. “For me, that means leading with courage, humility and a deep commitment to others — listening first, empowering those around me and creating space for collaboration and growth.”
The ceremony featured remarks from Dr. E. Gordon Gee, president emeritus of West Virginia University and one of the nation’s only five-time university presidents, who recognized TCU’s rising influence and Pullin’s leadership in a guest speaker address. “I know a great American university when I see one. Texas Christian University is clearly one,” Gee said. He added with humor, “I have been president of more than half the universities in this country,” before calling Pullin’s leadership “a master class in executive leadership and strategic planning.”
During the medallion presentation — the symbolic transfer of leadership marked by the Chancellor’s Medallion bearing the university seal in bronze, signifying strength, resilience and continuity — TCU leadership reflected on the significance of the moment.
“You will lead us boldly into a new era, one that reflects the full promise, mission and enduring excellence of Texas Christian University,” Moncrief said.
