Texas Tech University System (TTU System) community on Friday, Chancellor Tedd L. Mitchell, M.D., shared his plans to retire within the coming year, marking the end of a distinguished 15-year career of service and leadership within the system.
Dr. Mitchell’s decision was formally shared with faculty, staff, students, and stakeholders via a message on Friday morning. According to TTUS officials, Mitchell will continue to serve as chancellor until a successor is selected and in place, helping to ensure a seamless transition.
Mitchell’s tenure with the TTU System began in 2010, when he was appointed as the eighth president of Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC). Under his nearly decade-long leadership, TTUHSC expanded its academic programs, increased research initiatives, and further solidified its role as a key provider of health care education and services across Texas.
In October 2018, Mitchell was named the fifth chancellor of the TTU System. For roughly a year, he held a rare dual appointment, simultaneously serving as president of TTUHSC and chancellor before stepping down from the presidency to focus solely on leading the broader university system.
During his time as chancellor, Mitchell oversaw a period of significant growth and transformation across the TTU System’s five universities, which include Texas Tech University, TTUHSC, Angelo State University, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, and Midwestern State University. His leadership helped to advance strategic initiatives in research, education, and community engagement, and he was instrumental in guiding the system through challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and multiple legislative cycles.
“On behalf of the Board of Regents and the entire Texas Tech University System, I want to thank Chancellor Mitchell for a tremendous length of service,” said Cody Campbell, chairman of the TTU System Board of Regents. “Tedd has led the charge to transform our system and advance innumerable historic initiatives for our universities. In doing so, he has improved countless lives in West Texas, across our state, and around the country. We are grateful for his wisdom, innovative spirit and far-reaching impact, and congratulate him on his well-deserved retirement.”
TTU System officials emphasized that Mitchell’s decision to remain in the role during the search for his successor is a testament to his commitment to the system’s ongoing progress. The Board of Regents is expected to provide more details on the leadership transition following its scheduled meeting on August 14–15 in Lubbock.
In the meantime, members of the university community and leaders across Texas are reflecting on Mitchell’s legacy—one defined by thoughtful leadership, a focus on innovation, and a deep dedication to improving higher education and health care access for Texans.
