Honoring a Legacy of Faith and Service
Houston, Texas, is home to Texas Southern University (TSU), which has announced the creation of the Rev. William A. Lawson Endowment. This $400,000 scholarship fund will support undergraduate students and carry forward the ideals of one of Houston’s most beloved civil rights leaders.
The Life and Legacy of Rev. William A. Lawson
Rev. Lawson was a living, breathing example of what it means to stand for truth, lead with compassion, and build up a community. He was the founding pastor of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church and served as director of the Baptist Student Union and professor of Bible at TSU after arriving in Houston in 1955. Rev. Lawson’s legacy extends far beyond his impressive resume, as he was a pillar in the community who embodied the values of education and faith.
The William A. Lawson Endowed Scholarship
Thanks to a generous $200,000 gift from Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, matched by TSU’s Office of Civil Rights, the university is launching the William A. Lawson Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship will support full-time undergraduate students pursuing degrees in Political Science, Theology, Psychology, Sociology, or Education. Students must maintain a minimum 2.75 GPA and be in good academic standing.
Empowering Future Generations
The scholarship is not just financial assistance; it’s about investing in students who are ready to make an impact, just like Rev. Lawson did. TSU President James W. Crawford III stated, "Through this endowment, we celebrate his legacy while empowering future generations to follow in his footsteps to fearlessly speak truth to power while operating with humility, grace, and commitment to service over self."
A Testament to Commitment
Dr. Marcus D. Cosby, Senior Pastor of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, said, "This endowment is a testament to the commitment of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church and the Lawson family to academic excellence." The church and TSU have a long history of partnership, and this initiative is a meaningful way to honor Rev. Lawson’s legacy.
A Lasting Impact
The story of TSU and Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church is deeply connected, with the church being born in the living room of the Lawsons’ home on TSU’s campus. Although Rev. Lawson passed away in 2024, his spirit lives on in the city he helped shape. Through the William A. Lawson Endowed Scholarship, TSU ensures that his message of hope, courage, and education will echo through the halls of the university for years to come.
Conclusion
The Rev. William A. Lawson Endowment is a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to serving others. As TSU continues to empower future generations of leaders, the legacy of Rev. Lawson will live on, inspiring students to make a positive impact in their communities. His story is a reminder that one person can make a difference, and that the values of faith, education, and service can have a lasting impact on the world.
