Bob Glenn, the president of the University of Houston-Victoria, has announced his intention to retire in August of this year.

Bob Glenn

Glenn has led the university since Aug. 1, 2018. During that time, he has led the university through growth and struggles. Glenn has been instrumental in elevating UHV's academic standing, expanding the campus and making a positive impact on the Victoria community that will last for generations.

“I am grateful to President Glenn for his steadfast commitment to UHV and the indelible imprint he's left on its student body, faculty, staff and the greater community,” UH System Chancellor Renu Khator said. “While his accomplishments are highly impressive, it's his down-to-earth, thoughtful and humorous personality that truly made him an effective leader. He understands the importance of everyday human connection and uses that gift to the fullest. I thank Bob and his wife Laurie for their tremendous dedication and service.”

Since he took the helm at UHV, Glenn oversaw the growth and improvement of UHV with the opening of several new buildings, including UHV University South, UHV Northwest, University Commons and Don & Mona Smith Hall. He played a key role in securing a $2 million commitment from the M.G. and Lillie A. Johnson Foundation for construction of the Health & Wellness Center, which will officially open this fall. In addition, he oversaw the Ben Wilson Street construction project – a project that was 10 years in the making – which created an official entryway to campus.

Glenn’s tenure also oversaw academic growth, excellence and achievement at UHV. He led the creation of the new Aviation minor degree program at UHV, garnering more than $3 million in funding from the 88th Texas Legislature for its development. Accreditations were earned for UHV's bachelor's degree programs in computer science and nursing from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, respectively. In 2021, when its School Psychology program gained accreditation from The National Association of School Psychologists, it became one of only 13 Texas universities accredited by the association. Additionally, UHV has been included in The Princeton Review's Best Business Schools: Best On-Campus MBA Programs list (2021, 2022), was named third in the Niche Best Small College category in Texas (2023) and was recognized across 10 different categories by Intelligent.com, including No.7 for Best Online Master's in Creative Writing Degree Programs (2024).

Glenn also put a significant emphasis on helping and providing for UHV’s students. He created a new President's Holiday Card design contest, awarding scholarships to first- and second-place winners. Additionally, he oversaw the development of the Emergency Aid Fund to help students with unforeseen expenses that could hinder their academic pursuits.

That focus on helping and supporting students and employees came to the forefront during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to the university’s typical resources for students, he supported the creation of more scholarship and financial aid programs for students who might be hesitant to pursue a degree during the pandemic. He also led the university's response to COVID-19, including transitioning all classes online and offering clear, open communication in weekly updates. His leadership was recognized by Educate to Career, which ranked UHV's response among the best in the state.

“It has been an honor to serve the South Texas region as president of UHV,” Glenn said. “Higher education is not just a job, it is a calling, and I have been blessed to be a part of bringing quality, affordable higher education opportunities to students in this region and beyond. As the university transitions to a new chapter in its history and I shift into the next stage of my life, I hope that I will leave a positive legacy to help the university and its students take those next steps.”

In addition to his leadership at UHV, Glenn took an active role in the community. He serves on the boards of the DeTar Medical Center and the VEDC Regional Partnership, which promotes economic and job growth for the Victoria region. He proudly supports numerous Victoria-area programs, including the Victoria Symphony, the Victoria Bach Festival, the Texas Zoo, the Victoria Chamber of Commerce, the Victoria Generals and Keep Victoria Beautiful, among others. Notably, he also helped found the Victoria Young Professionals, which aims to foster new connections, career development and civic engagement among its members. Under his leadership, UHV launched several community engagement initiatives, including a mental health clinic providing free services to community members and the UHV Nonprofit Center, which offers free training and consulting services to help area nonprofits drive positive change.

After his retirement, Glenn and his wife, Laurie, plan to spend some time with their family, particularly their grandchildren.