BRYAN, Texas (KBTX) – The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents named Susan Ballabina, Executive Vice Chancellor of the Texas A&M University System, because the lone finalist for the college’s president.
“On behalf of the Board, we are confident Dr. Ballabina is the right leader for Texas A&M University,” mentioned Board Chairman Robert L. Albritton. “She brings unparalleled knowledge of Texas A&M, a collaborative leadership style and the experience and know-how to guide the university with vision and purpose. Equally importantly, she cares deeply about the people and communities this university serves.”
The board held a particular assembly on Monday afternoon, naming a finalist for the position, greater than six months after the controversial departure of former President Mark Welsh III.
On April 7, Regents spent greater than 5 hours in closed session reviewing candidates for the place. No motion was taken on the assembly.
The presidential search has been underway since Welsh resigned on Sept. 19, 2025, following a viral video controversy involving a classroom dialogue about gender identification.
Ballabina presently serves as Executive Vice Chancellor of the Texas A&M University System, the place she oversees systemwide operations, advances key strategic initiatives and works intently with the Board of Regents, college presidents and company management throughout Texas.
Ballabina has held senior management roles at each the college and A&M System, together with Chief of Staff to the president, Senior Vice President for Academic and Strategic Collaborations and Deputy Vice Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer for Texas A&M AgriLife.
“Dr. Ballabina is a proven leader who understands this institution, the people it serves and the responsibility it carries for the State of Texas,” mentioned Chancellor Glenn Hegar. “As Texas A&M celebrates its 150th year, it is critical that we have leadership focused on results, accountability and preparing the university for continued success in the years ahead. She is prepared to lead Texas A&M forward.”
When the seek for a brand new president started, Ballabina was on the search committee. Regents say she formally recused herself earlier than making use of to the place and had no position in evaluating candidates.
Ballabina obtained her bachelor’s diploma from Tarleton State University, grasp’s from Stephen F. Austin State University, and doctorate in public affairs from The University of Texas at Dallas. She has been acknowledged as a Regents Fellow by the A&M System, is a four-time recipient of the Superior Service Award from AgriLife Extension and was named a Distinguished Alumna of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at Tarleton State University.
Dr. James Hallmark, vice chancellor for educational affairs, briefly served as appearing president earlier than the board unanimously permitted former state Senator Tommy Williams as interim president in October 2025. A 16-member search committee was additionally appointed that month, together with board members, school, workers, college students, directors, and alumni representatives.
“The A&M System is grateful to Tommy Williams for his steady leadership and service to Texas A&M during this important time,” Hegar mentioned. “He has provided stability and continuity for the university, and we appreciate his continued commitment to the institution.”
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