Peter Flawn

Peter T. Flawn was a distinguished geologist, academic leader, and twice president of The University of Texas at Austin. He held the Leonidas T. Barrow Professorship in Mineral Resources and served as director of the Bureau of Economic Geology. His tenure as UT Austin president (1979–1985) focused on academic excellence, expanding research infrastructure, and fundraising, notably the Centennial Campaign. He also led UT San Antonio (1973–1977), establishing its main campus. Flawn’s research in West Texas geology and contributions to geoscience education were internationally recognized.

• Education: B.A. from Oberlin College; M.A. and Ph.D. in Geology from Yale University.

Flawn’s research emphasized geological mapping and mineral resource studies, with publications serving as foundational texts for students. His leadership roles included chairing the Leonidas T. Barrow Centennial Chair and advocating for expanded endowments and research funding. He played a pivotal role in post-Hopwood v. Texas admissions policy reforms during his 1997 interim presidency.

• Awards: National Academy of Engineering membership, Ian Campbell Medal, leadership in major geological societies.

His legacy includes the Peter T. Flawn Academic Center and enduring institutional improvements. Flawn was deeply involved in Texas’ educational and geoscience communities, leaving a lasting impact on research and policy.