About UHD's President

Dr. Deborah E. Bordelon was appointed Interim President of the University of Houston-Downtown by Chancellor Renu Khator, effective May 1, 2026. Prior to this appointment, Dr. Bordelon served as UHD’s Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost. In this role, she maintained a steadfast commitment to faculty excellence, student success, and the university’s accreditation and continuous improvement.
 
Dr. Bordelon began her career in 1998 as Chair and Associate Professor at Xavier University of Louisiana. She later served as Dean of the College of Education at Nicholls State University and Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Governors State University. In 2018, she assumed the role of Provost and Executive Vice President at Columbus State University before joining UHD in June 2002.

She holds a doctorate in special education, a master’s degree in education, and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, all from the University of New Orleans.

Throughout her career, Dr. Bordelon has been dedicated to advancing higher education through leadership, teaching, and research. She has contributed significantly to the field of special education and educational leadership, focusing on innovative teaching methodologies and fostering inclusive learning environments.