HOUSTON, Tx – A legacy of faith, service, and justice is being honored in a big way at Texas Southern University (TSU).
TSU has announced the creation of the Rev William A. Lawson Endowment, a $400,000 scholarship fund that will support undergraduate students and carry forward the ideals of one of Houston’s most beloved civil rights leaders.
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Lawson wasn’t just a name in the history books, he was a living, breathing example of what it means to stand for truth, lead with compassion, and build up a community.
Known to many as the founding pastor of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, Lawson also left a lasting mark at TSU, where he served as director of the Baptist Student Union and professor of Bible after arriving in Houston in 1955.
Now, thanks to a generous $200,000 gift from Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, matched by TSU’s Office of Civil Rights, the university is launching the William A. Lawson Endowed Scholarship.
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“Rev. Dr. William A. Lawson was a pillar in our community who embodied the values of education and faith,” said TSU President James W. Crawford III. “Through this endowment, we celebrate his legacy while empowering future generations to follow in his footsteps to fearlessly speak truth to power while operating with humility, grace, and commitment to service over self.”
The scholarship will support full time undergraduate students pursuing degrees in Political Science, Theology, Psychology, Sociology, or Education. Students must maintain a minimum 2.75 GPA and be in good academic standing.
TSU emphasized this isn’t just financial assistance. It’s about investing in students who are ready to make an impact just like Lawson did.
“This endowment is a testament to the commitment of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church and the Lawson family to academic excellence,” said Dr. Marcus D. Cosby, Senior Pastor of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church. “Texas Southern University students have been a part of the fabric of our church’s life since our inception in 1962. We are delighted to partner with TSU to honor the legacy of our Founding Pastor through this most meaningful initiative.”
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The story of TSU and Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church has always been deeply connected. In fact, the church was born in the living room of the Lawsons’ home, right on TSU’s campus.
Lawson passed away in 2024, but his spirit lives on in the city he helped shape.
Through this William A. Lawson Endowed Scholarship scholarship, TSU ensures that his message of hope, courage, and education will echo through the halls of the university for years to come.
