'Our students deserve more, and we must provide it for them': Simmons to vacate Prairie View presidency

Incumbent Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) President Dr. Ruth J. Simmons is stepping down from the position.

At the helm of the HBCU 50 miles northwest of Houston since 2017, Simmons disclosed her decision to Texas A&M University System Chancellor John Sharp, as well as issued a statement.

“Prairie View A&M is nowhere near what it could ultimately achieve as an institution of the first class," Simmons said in the statement. "Our students deserve more, and we must provide it for them. As we undergo our strategic planning, it is evident to me that a new leader must assume responsibility for advancing the university to a new level of excellence in student outcomes, faculty achievement and research output.”

Simmons is the successor to PVAMU's former President George Wright, stepping out from retirement to take the office.

She was instrumental in the opening of the school's Center for Race and Justice after the death of former Houstonian George Floyd in 2020, according to Houston NBC affiliate KPRC.

With an extensive career in education, she served as president of Brown University for more than a decade before coming to PVAMU.

Leading Brown earned her the distinction of being the first African American to assume an Ivy League presidency, the Houston Chronicle reported.

Simmons was also president of Smith College more than 20 years ago.

Sharp said tabbing Simmons to lead PVAMU is among the things he's proudest of.

“In five years, she has transformed the university and set it on a path to success and I am thankful for her time as president," the chancellor told the Houston Chronicle in a written statement. "I know the faculty and the students, in particular, will miss her day-to-day inspirational leadership.” 

Despite her intentions to vacate the office, the 76-year-old Simmons said she'll continue to work with the university after she leaves.

"Be assured that while I will step down from the presidency, my work for Prairie View A&M will not cease," she said in the statement. "Many supporters from around the country have initiated programs and offered support to the university, and I must assure them not only of my unwavering gratitude but also of my continued dedication to fulfilling the promises made to them when they elected to partner with and support the university." 

She'll remain in office until Sharp chooses her successor, Houston ABC affiliate KTRK reported.