Michelle and Jimmy Goodson
Former Victoria College President Dr. Jimmy Goodson passed away on Oct. 27, 2026. He served as president of the college for 19 years, from 1989 to 2008.
Goodson’s tenure marked a transformative period in Victoria College’s history, with significant campus expansion and continued investment in the college’s mission to serve students and the community.
Under his leadership, the William Wood Building opened in 1990, followed by the Language Building in 1991. The Student Center and Science Building opened in 1992, and the Sports Center followed in 1993. In 2000, the historic Administration Building was converted into the Museum of the Coastal Bend. The VC Gonzales Center opened in 2007, further expanding the college’s reach into the region.
Goodson, the third president of Victoria College, served as commissioner for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and chaired many accreditation teams for community colleges across the south. He was also proud of his time as president of the Texas Association of Community Colleges.
“Campus improvement was always part of Jimmy’s focus, but making education available to everyone was always most important to him,” said Goodson’s wife, Michelle. “He was so proud to have the opportunity to help make that possible at Victoria College and in the broader community. He was very interested in each student’s story and success. Even as he battled glioblastoma over the past few months, he was particularly happy when he learned nurses or caregivers had successfully completed their training at Victoria College.”
Longtime Victoria College Board of Trustees member Catherine “Kay” McHaney worked alongside Goodson as Board Chair during his presidency.
“Dr. Goodson helped shape the Victoria College we know today,” said McHaney. “His contributions remain part of VC’s legacy and our ongoing commitment to student success. We are grateful for his years of leadership and service, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and all who had the privilege of working alongside him.”
Remembrances and condolences can be shared with the family at ThieleCooper.com/Obituary/DrJimmy-Goodson.
