HOUSTON (March 25, 2019) – Texas Southern University received its second consecutive financial rating upgrade since 2017 when Moody’s Investors Service revised its outlook from “stable” to “positive” and affirmed the university’s revenue financing system bonds within the Baa3 rating category.

“We are doing the right things when it comes to our fiscal health,” said TSU President, Dr. Austin A. Lane. “We have dramatically increased our financial reserves through the use of strong fiscal controls. To move from ‘negative’ (2016) to ‘stable’ (2017) to ‘positive’ (2018) in a three-year span is outstanding news for our students, staff, alumni and the entire TSU community. But we aren’t done. We will continue to move toward even stronger ratings with the plan we have in place.”

In its rating action, Moody’s cited “improved fiscal discipline and success with strategic initiatives” that have led to a stronger cash and debt service position. It anticipates continued positive operating performance in 2019, along with continued improvement in the university’s financial reserves.

The report also affirmed TSU’s ongoing strategic initiatives, including its emphasis on recruitment and retention of students, as well as continued financial support from the state in contributing to the positive rating.

Dr. Lane pointed to the university’s Top 5 Priorities as being a critical component to success. These include 1) Student Success and Completion; 2) Academic Program Quality and Research; 3) Culture; 4) Partnerships; and 5) Finances.

“Together, our strategic priorities give TSU a clear purpose,” added Dr. Lane. “This has led to our last two investor rating increases, which is a significant achievement, and they keep us pointed in the right direction.”