Texas Southern University is joining civic and military partners in welcoming the U.S. Navy and maritime services for Fleet Week Houston, a first-of-its-kind, citywide event showcasing naval operations, community outreach, and public celebrations that highlight Houston’s role as a प्रमुख global port and defense hub.

Backed by Regent Ben Proler, a U.S. Navy Reserve Lieutenant Commander, the university was among the earliest institutions to support the initiative, underscoring its mission of leadership, service, and community engagement. TSU—one of the nation’s largest historically Black universities, founded in 1927 and recognized for programs in aviation science, business, law, and public affairs—serves a diverse student population and has a long-standing commitment to preparing leaders across multiple industries.

Fleet Week Houston features ship tours, Navy and Marine Corps demonstrations, STEM and education programming, and cultural events across key sites including Port Houston and the Houston Spaceport, drawing service members and visitors from across the country. As part of TSU’s involvement, the university hosted a Naval Leadership Reception on April 19, bringing together senior Navy and Marine Corps officials, including leadership from the USS Minneapolis-Saint Paul and USS Kearsarge, alongside veterans and community leaders.

The week’s engagements also included a visit from Karl O. Thomas, commander of U.S. Fleet Forces Command, to TSU’s aviation program at the Houston Spaceport, where students train for careers as professional pilots. The celebration will conclude with a Navy Day on April 22, featuring TSU’s renowned “Ocean of Soul” Marching Band performing alongside the U.S. Navy Band in a tribute to military service and national pride.

Fleet Week Houston not only honors the service and sacrifice of America’s sea services but also coincides with the nation’s 250th anniversary, reinforcing Houston’s strategic, economic, and cultural ties to national defense and global innovation.