---
"title": "Alois Blackwell Released As Texas Southern Athletic Director"
"description": "HOUSTON, TX, February 12, 2008 – Texas Southern University (TSU) President John Rudley announced today that Alois Blackwell has been released as the University’s Athletic Director, effectively immediately. “We appreciate Mr. Blackwell’s contributions in his seven years guiding this program,â€\u009d Rudley stated. “Now we must take the TSU athletic program to the next level and […]"
"date": "2008-02-12"
"authors":
  -
    "name": "HBCU Sports"
"url": "https://hbcusports.com/2008/02/12/alois-blackwell-released-as-texas-southern-athletic-director/"
"categories":
  - "Football"
"tags":
  - "Texas Southern"
---

# Alois Blackwell Released As Texas Southern Athletic Director

![txsouth.gif](http://www.tspnsports.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/10/txsouth.gif "txsouth.gif")HOUSTON, TX, February 12, 2008 – Texas Southern University (TSU) President John Rudley announced today that Alois Blackwell has been released as the University’s Athletic Director, effectively immediately. “We appreciate Mr. Blackwell’s contributions in his seven years guiding this program,” Rudley stated. “Now we must take the TSU athletic program to the next level and improve all areas, starting with student performance in the classroom and in athletic competition. To achieve that, a change in leadership is in our best interest.”  Head Football Coach Johnny Cole will serve as Interim Athletic Director while a search is conducted for a successor. Blackwell will remain on staff and assist during the transition. “We will search for a new AD that can build a competitive and compliant program,” Rudley said. Blackwell served in the position since 2001 and is credited with a number of achievements, including the 2005 opening of an Academic Enhancement Center. During his tenure, the TSU Tigers earned seven SWAC championships in various sports.