Texas Southern University has entered a new strategic partnership with the National Black Empowerment Council (NBEC), launching a cross-continental collaboration designed to expand global academic exchanges, cultural diplomacy efforts, and innovation-driven opportunities for students and faculty at one of the nation’s largest and most historic historically Black colleges and universities.
The agreement, signed this week in Houston, formalizes joint efforts to build international academic partnerships, develop leadership pipelines, and support research and innovation initiatives that connect Texas Southern to global institutions, including NBEC’s partners in Israel.
Founded in 1927 and recognized as a premier urban-serving HBCU, Texas Southern University is home to more than 100 academic programs across 10 colleges and schools, including nationally regarded programs in law, aviation, public affairs, business, and STEM fields. The university has played a central role in advancing civil rights, producing distinguished alumni in law, government, education, and the sciences. Its location in the heart of Houston’s Third Ward positions TSU as a key anchor institution within one of the most diverse cities in the country.
The new partnership aligns with Texas Southern’s longstanding commitment to expanding global learning pathways for its students and strengthening its role as a center for leadership and research.
Under the agreement, exchange programs, joint research opportunities, innovation initiatives, and leadership convenings will be developed to broaden international exposure for students, faculty, and administrators. The collaboration also aims to deepen Black–Jewish partnerships through shared cultural and educational experiences.
NBEC, a national organization dedicated to strengthening Black communities through civic engagement, leadership development, economic advancement, and international coalitions, will prioritize Texas Southern for participation in its global delegations and exchanges. These opportunities include programs connected to NBEC’s partnerships with several Israeli universities and innovation institutions.
Key areas of collaboration outlined in the agreement include:
Global academic partnerships: creating joint academic programs, research collaborations, and student exchanges supported by NBEC’s international network.
Black–Jewish collaboration: advancing cultural diplomacy, leadership exchanges, and joint convenings that position Texas Southern as a central HBCU partner in cross-community dialogue.
Innovation and entrepreneurship initiatives: supporting student-led ventures, research commercialization, and global investment opportunities in sectors such as clean energy, artificial intelligence, agriculture, and financial technology.
The partnership represents a significant step in Texas Southern University’s ongoing efforts to elevate its global footprint and expand the academic and professional horizons available to its students.
