By Anna Clay, Schieffer Associate 2024
Craig Felner
Craig Felner is a dedicated alumnus and active supporter of both TCU and the Bob Schieffer College of Communication.
Tell me about yourself.
I grew up in Spring, Texas, a suburb north of Houston near The Woodlands. I initially considered staying close to home and even thought about playing college basketball, but my parents encouraged me to visit TCU. After the visit, I ended up applying and enrolling.
The qualities that drew me to TCU back then, like its size, the student-to-faculty ratio, and the supportive campus community, are still what make it a great choice for students today.
Although Fort Worth has grown a lot over the past 25 years, back then, it was the perfect mid-sized city for me, offering a welcoming environment that made TCU feel like home.
What did your career path look like after graduation?
My career path took shape at TCU, though it evolved in unexpected ways. I began as a communications major, but after interning at the Republican National Convention in Houston, I discovered a passion for politics and public policy, which led me to switch to political science. That internship gave me invaluable exposure to the world of government and public affairs, ultimately leading me to work with notable figures like Texas Congressman Tom DeLay, Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison, and even President George W. Bush at the White House.
Today, I’ve been in government and public affairs for over two decades. Although I didn’t graduate from the College of Communications, I still lean heavily on the communication skills I developed at TCU. Strong communication is crucial in any career, especially in public policy and strategic roles.
What at TCU made you feel the most prepared for your career?
The real-world experiences, like internships and hands-on projects, were instrumental in preparing me for my career. TCU provides a supportive environment where professors are approachable and genuinely invested in students’ success.
During my time at TCU, those connections and the practical skills I gained through internships were invaluable. I’m now involved with the university on the Board of Visitors and work closely with faculty, emphasizing the importance of communication skills. Whether you’re in science, communication or public policy, effective communication is essential, and TCU really instills that in its students.
Did you know what you wanted to do when you came to TCU? How did you decide?
I entered TCU thinking I might pursue a career in broadcasting or communications, but my interests shifted through the internships and mentorships I experienced. That early internship at the Republican National Convention exposed me to politics and public policy, which felt like the right fit and set my career on a different path. TCU was supportive through that transition, and the guidance from professors helped me explore and refine what I truly wanted to do.
What’s one piece of advice you have for current students?
TCU continues to hold a special place in my life. The university and Fort Worth as a city have both grown so much, but TCU’s core values its commitment to community, education and supporting students remain as strong as ever.
It’s a privilege to stay involved with TCU, seeing the incredible progress being made and to have a chance to support the university that gave me so much. I encourage students to make the most of their time here and to build lasting connections.
The TCU community is genuinely like a family, and those relationships will serve you well, personally and professionally, long after you leave campus.
Has TCU helped you in your career after you left?
I’ve been privileged to stay involved with TCU, establishing an endowment with my wife and being part of an active alumni network.