Austin, TX – Huston-Tillotson University will unveil its new digital marquee on Thursday, October 22, 2026, immediately following the university’s 10 a.m. Charter Day Observance in King-Seabrook Chapel. The unveiling will take place on Bluebonnet Hill near the chapel.
Both the unveiling, themed “A New Sign of What’s Ahead,” and the Charter Day Observance are open to the public.
The marquee was fully financed by Austin entrepreneur, investor, and cultural strategist Katrine Formby. It will provide a highly visible platform for the Huston-Tillotson community and the public.
“Huston-Tillotson’s enduring legacy is deeply connected to this community,” said Formby, who also serves on the University’s Board of Trustees. “I am honored to provide a sign that welcomes people to Bluebonnet Hill and reflects the energy, excellence, and promise of HT’s future. I was inspired to give the university this marquee after seeing a light show in Sydney, Australia. I hope it will bring the university community together to connect and celebrate its place in Austin’s history. When deciding to purchase the marquee, President Wallace’s quote—‘We (HT) won’t be the quiet school here in downtown Austin’—was in the back of my mind.”
“As Austin’s third-oldest business and its first institution of higher education, HT has helped shape the city’s educational and cultural landscape,” noted HT President and CEO Melva K. Wallace. “We are grateful to Trustee Formby for an investment that will serve as a visible daily reminder that this is our community and that we belong,” she added.
Dr. Kenneth R. Crawford, Jr., chief operating officer and clerk to the Board, said that working with Formby on the project was insightful and rewarding. “Her munificence is remarkable. She is a gracious lady whose generosity translates her belief in HT’s mission into meaningful investment.”
About Huston-Tillotson University
Huston-Tillotson University, the first institution of higher education in Austin, Texas, has roots dating back to 1875. HT is an independent, church-related, historically black, four-year liberal arts institution located on a 23-acre tree-lined campus near downtown in East Austin. Huston-Tillotson University’s mission remains committed to its legacy of educating a mosaic community of learners while cultivating innovative leaders who are dedicated to academic excellence and service. The University offers associate and master’s degrees in addition to Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in more than 19 areas of study. Huston-Tillotson University is accredited by The Commission on Colleges and Universities to award associate, baccalaureate and master’s degrees. HT is also an NC-SARA school. For more information, please visit www.htu.edu.
