PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (Nov. 28, 2023) – It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of General Julius W. Becton, Jr., LTG (Ret.), former President of Prairie View A&M University. General Becton was appointed as the fifth president of his alma mater on December 15, 1989.
Known for his extraordinary career in military service, spanning more than four decades, he was the first Prairie View A&M University graduate to attain a star rank in the military. Among his decorations are the Distinguished Service Medal, two Silver Stars, two Legion of Merit medals, two Purple Hearts, and the Knight Commander’s Cross of the Order of Merit of Germany. General Becton was also the first African American director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, appointed by President Ronald Reagan in 1985.
Under his leadership, PVAMU significantly improved fiscal operations, successfully reaffirmed its accreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and the College of Nursing received a full eight-year accreditation from the National League of Nursing.
On August 31, 1994, General Becton retired as President with the distinction of an Honorary Doctorate approved by The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents.
Funeral details are forthcoming.