Houston Daily

The University of Houston System is mourning the loss of Alexander F. Schilt, a former chancellor and president whose leadership left a lasting impact on the institution. Dr. Schilt passed away recently.

Schilt served as the third president of the University of Houston–Downtown from 1980 to 1987 and later became the fourth chancellor of the UH System from 1989 to 1995. He was also a professor emeritus in the UH College of Education.

He began his journey in Houston in 1980 as president of UH–Downtown, where he laid groundwork for future growth over seven years. In his final years as president, he was special assistant to the UH System chancellor for development, focusing on expanding access to higher education.

In 1989, Schilt returned to lead as chancellor, launching the Creative Partnerships Campaign with a $350 million goal. This campaign supported scholarships, fellowships, faculty chairs, library resources and new programs. By its conclusion in 1995, it raised $358 million and was recognized as Houston’s largest fundraising campaign at that time.

Schilt's career also included roles as first chancellor of Indiana University East and president of Eastern Washington University. He held degrees from the University of Wyoming and Arizona State University.

After stepping down as chancellor in 1995, Schilt continued teaching at UH College of Education's Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies.

His contributions extended beyond academia; he served on boards like Whitewater Opera Company and Spokane Symphony Orchestra. In 1994, Mexico awarded him the Order of the Aztec Eagle.

Affectionately known as "Corky," Schilt attributed his undergraduate years with shaping his values and igniting his passion for learning.

The University extends condolences to Dr. Schilt’s family and community members affected by his passing.