First Black Woman to Serve as a Texas Ranger Honored with Induction into the Women’s Hall of Fame.
Gov. Greg Abbott announced Dr. Nix’s selection, along with four other honorees whose work has significantly influenced public life across Texas.
On Nov. 9, trailblazer Dr. Christine A. Nix — the first Black woman to rise to the ranks of the Texas Rangers Division — was inducted into the Texas Women’s Hall of Fame. Gov. Greg Abbott announced her inclusion alongside four other honorees recognized for shaping public life across Texas.
“The Texas Women’s Hall of Fame honors extraordinary women whose accomplishments and lasting influence have strengthened our great state,” Abbott said in a formal statement. “Cecilia and I are proud to welcome these five trailblazers, recognized this year for their outstanding contributions in business, public service, science, and other fields. Their achievements serve as inspiration for the next generation of leaders.”
Dr. Nix attributes her perseverance and “thick skin” to her ability to succeed in a field historically dominated by white men.
“When I started, there was some pushback, so I made sure I showed up fully prepared every single day. I had to develop a tough skin. My mindset was that I’d win people over one way or another. I worked hard, stayed ready, and eventually, agencies began reaching out to me,” she shared with KCEN.
Nix’s induction celebrates nearly 50 years of service across the U.S. Army Reserve, local law enforcement, state policing, and academia. In 1994, she made history as the first Black woman promoted to the elite Texas Rangers Division of the Department of Public Safety — a milestone that secures her place among the agency’s most notable modern figures.
The 2025 ceremony, hosted by the Governor’s Office and First Lady Cecilia Abbott, took place on Nov. 9 at Texas Woman’s University, home to the permanent Texas Women’s Hall of Fame exhibit. The museum showcases portraits and biographies of all inductees since the program began in 1984.
Inductees are nominated by Texans and chosen by an independent judging committee. Past honorees have included former first ladies, astronauts, entrepreneurs, public officials, and Olympic athletes.
For Dr. Nix, the honor is well-earned. She broke barriers within the Texas Rangers, and her diverse accomplishments over her decades-long career reflect a profound dedication to service. She now continues that mission at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton, where she mentors and prepares future Texas leaders.
