Former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner passes away at 70

Sylvester Turner, a former mayor of Houston and recent U.S. Congressman, passed away at the age of 70. Turner, an alumnus of the University of Houston (UH), was known for his leadership and service to both the city and state.

UH President Renu Khator expressed her condolences: “I am deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Sylvester Turner. He was a natural-born leader, humble servant and proud UH alum, who made a profound impact on our University, city and state. Most significantly, he never forgot his humble beginnings and used his platform to uplift and encourage young people to chase their dreams. He was a role model for our students, showing that no matter your zip code, race or income bracket, you can reach the highest heights. He will be sorely missed.”

Turner grew up in Houston and completed his bachelor's degree in political science at UH in 1977 before attending Harvard Law School. Upon returning to Houston, he founded his own law firm and occasionally lectured at the UH Law Center.

His political career began with over two decades in the Texas House of Representatives before being elected as Houston's mayor in 2015. During his tenure as mayor, Turner managed several crises including Hurricane Harvey and the COVID-19 pandemic. Following the death of U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee last July, Turner ran for her congressional seat and assumed office this January.

Turner's contributions to UH were significant; he received several honors including UH’s Distinguished Alumni Award, Elected Public Official of the Year award, Pioneer of Public Service Award, and in 2023 was awarded the President’s Medallion—the University's highest honor. Scholarships were also established in his name: The Sylvester Turner Academic Distinction Scholarship and the Sylvester Turner Scholarship Endowment Fund within the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences.

In a commencement speech delivered in 2018 to CLASS graduates, Turner highlighted resilience: “The road will not always be easy, sometimes it will be highly challenging. But Cougar Pride don’t turn back,” he said. “Live your life in such a way that when all is said and done, be able to say you have no regrets. Go Coogs – make your history as only you can.”

Turner's legacy includes numerous accolades from both UH and broader communities for his dedication to public service.