Kit Tennison Moncrief is the first woman to chair the board of trustees

TCU’s board of trustees made history this month as the first woman chair convened the November meeting.

Kit Tennison Moncrief has served as vice chair of the board since 2017, and her late husband, Charlie Beggs Moncrief, ‘72, served on the board as well.  

Moncrief’s mother, Gloria Lupton Tennison, was also a trustee. 

“As chair, I hope to continue her legacy – and love and passion for TCU, while supporting the university into its next 150 years,” said Moncrief after she was elected at the board’s meeting last April. 

Her new role adds to her list of philanthropic efforts in the Fort Worth community.

She serves as the president of the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, and co-chairs the Fort Worth Zoological Association. Moncrief is also a board member of the UT Southwestern Moncrief Cancer Institute, the Brown-Lupton Foundation, the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo, the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, and the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History.

Moncrief said her experience in these different organizations gives her perspective.

Preparing for next year

Moncrief has worked with the new cabinet before. She said she expects the group to focus on, “ensuring TCU continues to be a leader in higher education.”

Her experience has taught her to navigate controversial issues with integrity and confidence. Moncrief said a confident leader can clearly articulate these issues to his or her board. 

Moncrief said she plans to advocate for the women on campus, “especially those who wish to serve in leadership roles and need mentors as they navigate their path.”

Chancellor Victor Boschini said he is pleased about Moncrief’s new role. 

“Kit’s leadership and service – both to TCU and within our Fort Worth community – will benefit generations to come,” Boschini said. 

The board meets twice a year and is comprised of about 50 trustees.