Texas Southmost College Revised Statement on Tercero Termination

Tercero given notice of termination, placed on administrative leave

On Monday, August 1, 2016, the TSC Board of

Trustees voted 5-1 to give President Lily F. Tercero formal notice of termination, and placed her on administrative leave pending a dismissal hearing. Mr. Mike Shannon, TSC Vice President of Student Services, will serve as the interim President of TSC. "We have full confidence in his leadership abilities," said Vice Chair Trey Mendez. "Mr. Shannon possesses many great qualities. Among them is his ability to motivate his peers and work tirelessly on behalf of the students in the TSC district. He is the best person to lead TSC during this transition."


"At this time, we cannot discuss details of the investigation performed by independent counsel," Mendez said. "However, it was clear that the institution needed a change in leadership." Tercero has served as President of TSC since October, 2011. She helped guide TSC through its separation from a partnership with the University of Texas System, and most recently helped the college obtain accreditation from the The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ("SACSCOC"), the regional body for the accreditation of degree granting higher institutions in the southern states. "Dr. Tercero has given many years of service to the district." said Adela Garza, Chair of the Board of Trustees. "However, it is time to move forward, and we ask that the community continue to support the college. Every board member wants what is best for TSC, and we will continue to work to grow the college and fulfill our mission to provide affordable high quality education to all students."