Texas Southern University Selects Dr. Shani Nicole Robinson as Dean of the Jesse H. Jones School of Business

Texas Southern University has selected Dr. Shani Nicole Robinson as dean of Jesse H. Jones School of Business, effective January 2027. Robinson most recently served as senior associate dean of the College of Business Administration at Sam Houston State University.

Robinson’s responsibilities have included student and faculty success, AI integration, strategic planning, recruitment and retention, and career readiness initiatives.

She led the creation of the Center for Building Business Professionals and helped establish a Career Readiness Academy that became a graduation requirement for upper-level business students beginning in fall 2026.

Robinson has also worked on executive education, community engagement, accreditation, and strategic partnerships. A certified public accountant (CPA) and professor of accounting, she researches professional skepticism, auditor judgment and decision-making, and leadership.

She earned a doctorate in accounting, with a minor in organizational behavior and psychology, from the University of North Texas. She holds an MBA and a Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting from Sam Houston State University.

“We are building a stronger Texas Southern University, and that work begins with the quality of our academic programs and the success of our students. Dr. Robinson brings the experience, leadership, and commitment to academic excellence that we need as we implement the Ascend 2030 strategic plan. I am confident she will help us build on the strengths of our College of Business and prepare more students to compete and succeed at the highest levels,” said Texas Southern University President J.W. Crawford III.

“I am honored to join Texas Southern University at such an important time in its history. I look forward to working with faculty, staff, students, and industry partners to strengthen academic programs, expand career opportunities, and prepare graduates to lead in an evolving business landscape. As the University approaches its Centennial, I am excited to contribute to the work ahead,” Robinson said.

The appointment comes as Texas Southern University advances the Ascend 2030 strategic plan and prepares for its Centennial in 2027.