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LaDainian Tomlinson has served TCU on the football field as one of the most recognizable and beloved athletes to pass through Fort Worth, as an ambassador for the school throughout his Hall of Fame NFL career, and now as a policy-maker for the University as he takes on his next role, member of the Board of Trustees.
According to TCU:
The Board of Trustees’ responsibility is to help Texas Christian University carry out its mission by establishing policy and developing a long-term strategy for the institution. The primary functions of the Board are twofold: a.) establish and promote the overall strategic direction for the university and b.) hire and evaluate on a regular basis the Chancellor vis-a-vis her/his goals. The Board also undertakes other duties based on current needs or issues under leadership of an annually elected chair.
The Board works in partnership with the Chancellor, university administrators, and the campus community to make TCU “ a world-class, values centered university”. The majority of its work is accomplished through standing committees of the Board: Academic Affairs; Audit/Risk & Compliance; Buildings & Grounds; Committee on Trusteeship; Development; Executive; Fiscal Affairs; Intercollegiate Athletics; Investment and Student Relations.
The Board has been in existence since 1874. It may consist of up to 50 members and the By-laws also provide for emeritus and honorary members of the Board. There are two standing meetings per academic year, once in the fall and once in the spring. The Board is committed to working diligently to ensure the continued success of Texas Christian University.
Tomlinson brought about the renaissance of TCU Football, leading the Frogs to their first bowl game in 14 years, as the Frogs made the Sun Bowl in his sophomore season. The fifth pick in the 2001 NFL Draft, LT played for the San Diego Chargers for nine seasons before spending the final two years of his Hall of Fame career with the New York Jets. A six-time All Pro, Tomlinson finished his career with 13,684 yards - good for fifth all time - and 145 rushing touchdowns, the second highest mark in league history.
LT has recently spent more time around the TCU campus, and that will be even more the case during his tenure on the board. His addition is a win for the Frogs in a variety of ways, and his impact will likely be felt across the TCU community as a whole.