TTUHSC Family Remembers Past President Lauro F. Cavazos Jr.
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center mourns the passing of Lauro F. Cavazos Jr., who died Tuesday, March 15. Cavazos was appointed as the 10th president of Texas Tech University on April 1, 1980, and served concurrently as the third president of Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center.
A champion of higher education with a passion for health care, Cavazos served as president for eight years. During his decorated tenure, Cavazos spearheaded several milestones initiatives at TTUHSC, including the formation of the School of Nursing and the School of Health Professions (formerly the School of Allied Health Sciences).
“Our TTUHSC family extends the deepest condolences to the family of Lauro Cavazos Jr.,” said Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center President Lori Rice-Spearman, Ph.D. “Dr. Cavazos’ contributions to advance academic opportunities helped lay a strong foundation for our university, which has been instrumental in TTUHSC’s development into a leading health-research institution. His professional success, from very humble beginnings, served as a model for so many others who dreamed of opportunities afforded through higher education.
In addition to his service to the Texas Tech University and Texas Tech University Health Sciences communities, Cavazos was the U.S. Secretary of Education, serving under Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush. He was the first Hispanic to be appointed to a U.S. Cabinet position.
Related Stories
TTUHSC University Awards Ceremony Honors Recipients
On February 19, TTUHSC honored recipients at the University Awards, which held a significant change in 2026 by combining the annual recognition ceremonies for the first time.
From Backpacks to White Coats: TTUHSC School of Medicine Invests in Tomorrow’s Healers Today
As part of its partnership with JAMP, the TTUHSC School of Medicine Admissions Office recently partnered with Alderson Elementary School in the Lubbock Independent School District to provide critical school supplies.
Amy Purdy Delivers Keynote Address at TTUHSC Laura W. Bush Institute for Women’s Health Power of the Purse Luncheon
American snowboarder, motivational speaker and author Amy Purdy delivered the keynote address at the Power of the Purse luncheon and fundraiser on April 10.
Recent Stories
TTUHSC Faculty Receive Chancellor’s Council Distinguished Teaching and Research Awards
TTU System Chancellor Brandon Creighton, TTUHSC President Lori Rice-Spearman, Ph.D., and TTUHSC Provost and Chief Academic Officer Darrin D’Agostino, D.O., presented the 2026 Chancellor’s Council Distinguished Teaching and Research Awards on March 12.
TTUHSC University Awards Ceremony Honors Recipients
On February 19, TTUHSC honored recipients at the University Awards, which held a significant change in 2026 by combining the annual recognition ceremonies for the first time.
National Academy of Inventors Names TTUHSC Faculty Senior Members
The National Academy of Inventors (NAI) has designated two current and one former TTUHSC faculty researchers as Senior Members.