Shawn Thierry, a former state representative from Houston, recently started a new job as Executive Director for Policy and Counsel at Texas Southern University (TSU) in February 2025. In this position, she will advise the Board of Regents on policy and legal matters that affect the university.
The Board of Regents is a governing body responsible for overseeing the operations and management of a university or college system. At Texas Southern University (TSU), the Board of Regents makes important decisions about the university’s policies, budget, and long-term goals. The board ensures that the university stays on track with its mission, provides academic leadership, and maintains financial stability. Board members are typically appointed by the governor and serve as the key decision-makers for the institution.
Thierry has had a long career in public service. She graduated from TSU’s Thurgood Marshall School of Law and earned her undergraduate degree from Howard University. She served in the Texas House of Representatives from 2017 to 2024, representing Houston’s 146th district. During her time in office, she worked on several important committees, including Ways and Means and Energy Resources. However, in 2024, Thierry lost her bid for re-election.
One of her key roles was serving as Vice Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, where she worked on legislation related to taxes and economic policy. Thierry pushed for policies that aimed to provide more sustainable property tax relief to Texans, especially those in lower-income communities. She was also active on the Juvenile Justice & Family Issues Committee, advocating for reforms in the juvenile justice system to ensure fair treatment for young people.
Additionally, Thierry focused on energy policy during her time in the Texas House, particularly issues surrounding energy resources and environmental protection. She used her platform to advocate for more sustainable energy policies that would benefit both the environment and the state’s economy.
After losing her re-election, Thierry made a significant political shift by changing her party affiliation from Democrat to Republican. This move surprised many, as she had spent years in the Texas legislature as a Democrat. Her switch marked a new direction in her political beliefs and career.
Despite her defeat in the election, Thierry remained active in public service. She now brings her experience in law and politics to TSU, where she will work closely with university leaders to guide important decisions. She’s focused on helping the university succeed and ensuring that its policies serve the best interests of students and staff.
Thierry joins Dr. James White, another former legislator, at TSU, showing the university’s emphasis on leadership with experience in government.
[Photo: Instagram]
