Mathew Knowles: Moving From Management to the Classroom

Beyonce Knowles' father and manager, Mathew Knowles, is planning to return to another career endeavor he embarked upon last year: teaching an entertainment industry course at Texas Southern University.

The Alabama-born music executive has already made a name for himself linking big name brands like Samsung and American Express to superstar artists and now he's paying it forward and sharing the keys to his success with a new generation.

Since quitting his high paying job at Xerox over twenty years ago, Knowles has become a music industry titan - helming the most successful girl group of all-time, Destiny's Child, and most notably, today's leading pop star, Beyonce.

Unbeknown to many, Knowles has kept quiet by pursuing other career moves, like being a part owner of the WNBA Chicago Sky franchise, and now doling out tidbits of advice to Entertainment and the Recording Industry program students in the University's School of Communication in Houston.
"Knowledge and empowerment are two of the greatest gifts one can give," Mathew Knowles told the Blackvoices.com.

He says he's enjoyed his experience as a professor thus far.

"The environment at TSU is one of dedication to excellence and diverse opportunities for its students. I'm honored to be back to have this opportunity to share my experiences," he added.

Through his Music World Entertainment company, he's crafted the careers of Destiny's Child, as well as newcomer Tiffany Evans. But, these days, Knowles has focused his efforts on his Music World Gospel label, where he signed Dr. Juanita Bynum, Brian Courtney Wilson and Trin-i-tee 5:7.

Though Knowles might have had pick of what type of University to get his academic start at, it's no surprise he choice Texas Southern, a historically black college and university.

Knowles graduated from fellow HBCU Fisk University in 1974 with dual degrees – Bachelor of Arts in Economics and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. But some can call him Doctor; two years ago, he was given his alma mater's highest honor when he was bestowed with Doctor of Humane Letters.