Lufkin, Texas – November 14, 2024 – The T.L.L. Temple Foundation is proud to announce that its President and CEO, Dr. Wynn Rosser, has been appointed commissioner of higher education for the State of Texas by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB). The appointment was confirmed through a unanimous vote by the THECB at a special board meeting held earlier today.
Dr. Rosser’s leadership over the past eight years has been instrumental in transforming the T.L.L. Temple Foundation and strengthening its impact in rural East Texas. Since joining the foundation in 2016, Dr. Rosser has built a professional, mission-driven team dedicated to addressing the unique challenges facing our communities. Under his guidance, the foundation has remained committed to empowering rural East Texas through innovative solutions in education, healthcare, regional community development, and community resilience.
Reflecting on Dr. Rosser’s contribution, W. Temple Webber III, Chairman of the T.L.L. Temple Foundation, expressed gratitude for Rosser's unwavering dedication to the foundation's mission:
"We are incredibly grateful for Dr. Rosser’s vision, leadership, and commitment to the people of rural East Texas. Over the past eight years, he has helped cement the T.L.L. Temple Foundation’s legacy by building an outstanding team and steering our efforts to make a lasting impact in the communities we serve. While we will miss his presence, we could not be prouder of his appointment as commissioner of higher education for the State of Texas., where his leadership will benefit students and families across the state.”
During this transition, the foundation will continue its work uninterrupted, as the Board of Trustees initiates a thorough search for a new president and CEO.
The T.L.L. Temple Foundation, a family foundation focused on improving quality of life in rural East Texas, extends its congratulations to Dr. Rosser on this significant appointment and looks forward to supporting his efforts to advance higher education statewide.
About the T. L. L. Temple Foundation: The T. L. L. Temple Foundation is a philanthropic organization dedicated to improving the quality of life in East Texas through investments in education, health, human services, arts, and culture. Since its founding in 1962 by Mrs. Georgie Temple Munz, the T.L.L. Temple Foundation has invested more than $550 million primarily to strengthen communities in rural East Texas. For more information about the foundation, visit www.tlltemple.foundation.
Honoring a Legacy: Morris Frank Park Ribbon Cutting Celebrates Community, History, and Heart
Honoring a Legacy: Morris Frank Park Ribbon Cutting Celebrates Community, History, and Heart The Morris Frank Park officially reopened on Wednesday, April 1, as community members, city leaders, and the Frank family gathered to celebrate a legacy deeply rooted in Lufkin’s history. Hosted by the City of Lufkin and Lufkin Parks & Recreation, the ribbon…
Read MoreSummer in the City 2026
Summer in the City 2026 Returns to Downtown Lufkin with Eight Weeks of Free Community Events LUFKIN, TX – Summer evenings in Downtown Lufkin are set to come alive once again as Summer in the City 2026 returns to Cotton Square Park from June 6 through August 1. This free, family-friendly event series will feature…
Read MoreMarch Chamber Celebrations
March Chamber Celebrations This March, our Chamber had the privilege of celebrating four ribbon cuttings, recognizing businesses investing in Angelina County. These milestones reflect growth, leadership, and the continued momentum moving our community forward. Take a look back at the celebrations we shared this month. Ribbon Cutting | 3.12.26 Hope community medicine 821 W. Frank…
Read MoreLegacy Luncheon: Honoring the Past, Inviting the Future
Legacy Luncheon: Honoring the Past, Inviting the Future What a special opportunity this was. Bringing our past Board Chairs back into the story wasn’t just meaningful, it was powerful. The Legacy Luncheon created space to honor the leaders who helped shape this Chamber while also inviting them back into the life of the organization they…
Read MoreCommunities Unlimited Hosting Beginner-Friendly Grant Readiness Class at DETCOG
Communities Unlimited Hosting Beginner-Friendly Grant Readiness Class at DETCOG Local organizations and community leaders looking to strengthen their funding efforts are invited to attend an upcoming Grant Readiness Training hosted by Communities Unlimited. The beginner-friendly class will take place on Monday, March 30, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Deep East Texas…
Read More