Hawkins to retire

Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. announces his retirement for 2027

Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. announced his new plan to conclude his time as chancellor in 2027.

This announcement comes just months after his previous announcement, renouncement and previous plan for his retirement, which was originally delayed by the Board of Trustees.

The announcement of Hawkins’ plan came Monday afternoon through an email sent to all Troy students, faculty and staff.

Hawkins has been the chief executive of Troy for over four decades. Hawkins will conclude his service as chancellor on June 30, 2027, under a newly revised timeline designed to align the leadership transition to the start of the 2027-2028 school year.

“I joined Troy State University on Sept. 1, 1989,” Hawkins said. “The opportunity to welcome faculty, staff and students at the beginning of a new academic year was beneficial as I transitioned into leadership following Dr. Ralph Adams.

“Dr. Adams was a great friend, and he worked with me during the months that followed to ensure the transition was seamless. That is also my desire as we prepare for TROY’s next Chancellor."

Hawkins’ final year as chancellor will align with the 140th anniversary of Troy University, a fact Hawkins said he looks forward to.

“The year ahead promises to be an exciting one as we celebrate 140 years of service,” Hawkins said. “Our academic reputation is strong, our athletic teams are positioned for success, we are financially healthy and our campuses are beautiful.

“As I begin my final 10 months of active service as Chancellor, I join our entire leadership team in reaffirming our commitment to ensuring that this University is positioned for another 140 years of success.”

Under the newly revised plan, Hawkins will take on an advisory role after concluding his time as Chancellor. His formal retirement date is set for June 30, 2028.

“As Chancellor Emeritus I look forward to supporting Troy University and its leadership for years to come,” . Hawkins said. “That is why Janice and I are building a home here in Troy. We love this university and this community.”

President Pro Tem Gibson Vance said the Board of Trustees supports the revised timeline. The board is still searching for Troy’s next Chancellor.

“The Trustees look forward to celebrating Dr. Hawkins’ 38 years of extraordinary accomplishments in the months ahead while we remain actively engaged in the search for Troy University’s next Chancellor,” Vance said. “This timeline will provide the next Chancellor with the opportunity to begin alongside our students, faculty and staff at the start of a new academic year.”

Dr. Hawkins was named chancellor of the Troy State University System on Sept. 1, 1989. In his time at Troy, more than $400 million has been invested in campus improvements under his administration, including new academic buildings.

According to the email, Hawkins made service to military students a hallmark of his tenure. Troy was repeatedly recognized for its support of military-connected students, including being named a “Best for Vets” institution by Military Times.

Hawkins served as the catalyst for the University’s evolution into an international institution. During Hawkin’s time at Troy, academic standards for admission have been elevated; many new degree programs, including doctoral programs, have been established and intercollegiate athletics have advanced to the highest level of NCAA competition.