News from Trinity University

Trinity University President John R. Brazil displays the Distinguished Service medallion after receiving it from board Chairman George “Tim” Hixon, left.

SAN ANTONIO – Trinity University President John R. Brazil was awarded the University’s most prestigious honor, the Distinguished Service medallion, during Trinity’s commencement exercises held Saturday, May 16.

Under Dr. Brazil’s leadership, Trinity has launched a number of initiatives that

have built on the University’s considerable strengths and accomplishments, including an historic $200 million capital campaign, Dream. Inspire. Achieve. The Campaign for Trinity University, which will reach its successful conclusion this year. The funds raised in this campaign will sustain Trinity’s future and ensure access for the nation’s best and brightest students.

Dr. Brazil’s vision for Trinity has been to move the University from its position of eminence to preeminence and to propel it into the front ranks of America’s finest colleges. He became Trinity’s 17^th president in June 1999 and has announced his intention to retire in January 2010.

George “Tim” Hixon, chairman of the board of trustees, said Trinity has thrived for the past 10 years with Dr. Brazil at the helm. “His dedicated leadership and commitment to the University’s mission have kept Trinity University in the front ranks of America’s finest colleges and universities,” Mr. Hixon said.

Among Dr. Brazil’s other accomplishments are the hiring of numerous new faculty members, a redesigned common curriculum, a re-conceptualization of student life, implementation of an Academic Honor Code, the “internationalization” of both the faculty and student body, the revitalization of both the Trinity University Press and KRTU-FM, and dramatic increases in the number, quality, and diversity of applicants for admissions.

During the past 10 years, Trinity students have come to know Dr. Brazil as the “official greeter” at the top of Murchison Tower during a twice-yearly event that has become a rich University tradition. First-year students climb the 166-foot campus landmark shortly after arriving on campus and once again as seniors when their Trinity education is drawing to a close.

This is only the 11^th time the Distinguished Service medallion has been awarded at Trinity.

Trinity University is a nationally recognized liberal arts and sciences institution noted for its exceptional faculty and commitment to the comprehensive preparation of its talented student body. It is a learning community that has charted its course with a steadfast commitment to excellence since it was founded in 1869.