Louis Lowry McInnis was born in Jackson, Mississippi on March 24, 1855. He graduated from the State University at Oxford, Mississippi in 1871. He started work at Texas A&M College on November 9, 1877, as an adjunct professor of ancient languages. Later he served as acting professor of mathematics and as chairman of the mathematics department. McInnis also served as the Secretary to the Board, Treasurer of the College, Vice-Chairman of the Faculty, and then Chairman of the faculty. He was acting President of Texas A&M while also serving as chairman of the faculty from January 24, 1888, to July 1, 1890.