Harmon L. Lowman was seventh president of the university, serving the second longest term, 22 years (1942-1964).

The campus grew dramatically during his tenure, especially in areas of residence halls and instructional facilities, and SHSU earned the claim as the first completely air-conditioned campus in the world. Enrollment exceeded 5,000 during the 1963-64 academic year.

He was honored as a Distinguished Alumnus in 1984.

The Lowman Student Center, started and almost completed during his tenure, was named in his honor.