PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (March 5, 2025) – Today, we mourn the passing of US Congressman and former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner (D-TX), a visionary leader, devoted public servant, and steadfast advocate for Houston and higher education. His leadership transformed our city, guiding Houstonians through challenges with resilience, unity, and an unwavering commitment to progress.
Turner’s dedication to Prairie View A&M University was profound. He served as PVAMU’s Spring 2016 and Summer 2023 commencement speaker, delivering passionate speeches that left graduates and attendees inspired by his words of wisdom, encouragement, and a call to serve their communities with passion and purpose. In recognition of his dedication to public service and community empowerment, he was honored with PVAMU’s 2016 Humanitarian Award.
His support for PVAMU extended beyond the stage. In 2020, Turner announced the Wellness in Houston partnership (formerly the Healthy Houston initiative) between the City of Houston and Prairie View A&M University to address health disparities in underserved communities. This initiative aimed to invest in programs and services that would tackle challenges impacting the state’s diverse socioeconomic populations, reinforcing his dedication to equity and opportunity for all. Turner further extended his support to the PVAMU community by serving as a speaker to several classes in the Community Development Program.
We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. Thank you, Congressman Turner, for your remarkable contributions to Houston, PVAMU, and beyond. Your legacy of leadership, advocacy, and service will continue to inspire generations to come.
Take a look at Turner’s powerful speech from PVAMU’s 112th Summer Commencement Convocation:
By Sierra L. Susberry
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