Houston Christian University President Robert B. Sloan Jr. died suddenly early Saturday morning, July 4, 2026, after what the university called a "major health event." He was 77. Sloan had led HCU since 2006, guiding enrollment gains, new degree programs and significant campus expansion that raised the school’s profile.
University Confirms Sudden Passing
HCU Board Chairman Ramiro Peña informed the campus community, saying, "With the heaviest heart, I am saddened to announce the sudden death of HCU President Robert B. Sloan, Jr.," and praised Sloan’s leadership and spiritual influence on the university, according to HCU Athletics. The university said Sloan had "suffered a major health event" late Friday and was pronounced deceased early Saturday morning, Click2Houston reported.
Long Tenure and Baylor Ties
Sloan took office as HCU president on September 1, 2006, and led the school through nearly two decades of program growth and construction, according to the Houston Chronicle. Before his years in Houston, he served as president of Baylor University from 1995 to 2005 and held key academic posts there. Baylor President Linda Livingstone offered condolences and highlighted Sloan’s contributions to Baylor’s long-range vision, according to Baylor University.
Campus Reaction and Next Steps
The HCU Board of Trustees said it will provide additional details in consultation with university leadership and requested privacy for Sloan’s family as notifications are completed, according to Click2Houston. Campus offices have not yet announced memorial plans, and university leaders have asked faculty, staff and students to keep the family in their prayers while arrangements are finalized.
A Life in Education
Sloan was born in Coleman, Texas, and raised in Abilene. He earned degrees from Baylor University (B.A., 1970), Princeton Theological Seminary (M.Div., 1973) and the University of Basel (Doctor of Theology), according to his university profile. He and his wife, Sue, had seven children and 24 grandchildren, the Houston Chronicle reported. University materials credit him with the Ten Pillars strategic vision that has shaped HCU’s development.
Cause of Death Not Released
The university has not publicly released a cause of death. Medical personnel attempted to save Sloan after the health event and officials are coordinating further messages for the community, according to FOX 26 Houston and university statements.
