Troy University Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins to retire in 2028

Dr. Jack Hawkins says it will retire at the end of 2028./Courtesy: Troy University

Longtime Troy University Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins says he will retire at the end of 2028.

University officials announced Friday that Dr. Hawkins will continue in his role as Chancellor through December 31, 2027, then transition to the role of Advisor for the remaining year.

Dr. Hawkins is currently the longest serving CEO of a public university in the United States.

A native of Mobile, Alabama, Dr. Hawkins was named Chancellor of the Troy State University System on Sept. 1, 1989. More than $400 million has been invested in capital improvements under his administration, including new academic buildings on all of TROY’s Alabama campuses.

A Marine Corps combat veteran of the Vietnam War, Dr. Hawkins’ tenure has also been marked by dedicated service to military students. TROY has been repeatedly recognized for efforts to support military connected students including the Best for Vets designation from Military Times.

Chancellor Hawkins served as the catalyst for the University’s evolution into an international institution, as TROY has attracted record numbers of students from other nations and established teaching sites around the world. During his tenure, academic standards for admission have been elevated, new degree programs have been established across all academic colleges, and intercollegiate athletics have advanced to the highest level of NCAA competition.

Dr. Hawkins first announced his retirement in September 2024, but rescinded his retirement after the Board of Trustees asked him to delay it.