About the Institute
The Shepperd Leadership Institute remains rooted in John Ben Shepperd’s legacy and is currently rebuilding and reimaging itself for the future.
John Ben Shepperd (1915-1990) dedicated his life to leadership and encouraging young Texans to lead. He served as Texas Secretary of State along with Attorney General. After retiring from public service, he worked as an attorney in Odessa and was a strong advocate for the creation of UT Permian Basin. In 1995, to honor Mr. Shepperd’s legacy, the Texas Legislature created the Shepperd Leadership Institute at The University of Texas Permian Basin.
The Shepperd Leadership Institute is committed to honoring the past and paving a new way forward to sustainably serve UT Permian Basin, the region, and our shared state of Texas. We’ve relaunched established programming – like the Distinguished Lecture Series and leadership training – and pioneered new programs, like the Permian Basin Water In Energy Conference and a partnership with the Ellen Noel Art Museum to reimagine and reanimate the Presidential Archives.
Our history is rich, our future is bright, and we’re so glad you’re here to join us!