2026 Distinguished Alumni Service Award - Mattie C. Provost
2026 Distinguished Alumni Service Award - Mattie C. Provost
Chief Mattie C Provost (‘84, ’95), chief deputy of the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office, is a distinguished law enforcement executive and former assistant chief of the Houston Police Department. She is widely recognized for a lifetime of exceptional public service, visionary leadership and transformative community impact. Throughout a distinguished career spanning over three decades in Texas law enforcement, she has exemplified the highest ideals of integrity, courage and servant leadership, reflecting the enduring legacy of Sam Houston State University and its tradition of Bearkat excellence. She holds a Texas Law Enforcement Master Peace Officer Certificate and is a graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy, Session #241.
After earning a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice in 1984 and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice Management in 1995 from SHSU, Provost applied her academic foundation with remarkable distinction. She has advanced progressive policing strategies and executive leadership practices across the Greater Houston and Fort Bend County regions. As a senior command executive within two of Texas’s largest and most complex public safety agencies, she has directed major metropolitan operations, implemented forward-thinking crime reduction initiatives and strengthened institutional trust through principled, community-focused leadership.
Provost is also a graduate of Leadership Houston, Class XXV, and the Senior Management Institute for Police. In 2022, she was selected by her peers to receive the prestigious Melvin Drum Chief Deputy Award in recognition of her outstanding leadership and service.
Renowned for her command presence, operational excellence and unwavering integrity, Provost has consistently demonstrated extraordinary leadership during times of crisis and organizational transformation. Her ability to unite public safety professionals, civic leaders and community stakeholders has earned her widespread respect and regional commendation, establishing her as a model of executive leadership in modern policing. During her tenure with the Houston Police Department, she developed the Police and Clergy Alliance Unit, strengthening partnerships between law enforcement and the community. In addition, she is a dedicated community advocate, certified mediator and Texas Crime Prevention Specialist.
Equally significant is her enduring commitment to mentorship, accountability and professional development. For over 30 years, Provost has cultivated future generations of law enforcement leaders while championing transparent, community-centered policing philosophies that have elevated standards of professionalism and public confidence alike. Her passion for service extends beyond law enforcement, as she has mentored students across the Houston, Spring Branch, Katy, Lamar, Columbus and Fort Bend Independent School Districts. Her career stands as a powerful testament to distinguished achievement, selfless service and an unwavering dedication to protecting and strengthening the communities she serves.
Provost is also a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, as well as a proud mother to three children.