Messages from the Office of the President
General (Ret.) Mark A. Welsh III
President, Texas A&M University
Best wishes for a safe, enjoyable Spring Break
March 8, 2024Congratulations on a great first half of the semester. Spring Break is upon us – which means an entire week away from classes, assignments and exams. Whoop!
President’s Brief - February 2024
February 21, 2024As always, thanks for all you do to make Texas A&M great. I encourage you to read on to see a few of the incredible things happening because of your hard work.
An Important Update on the Qatar Campus
February 8, 2024In recent months, our university, the Texas A&M System and Board of Regents have closely analyzed how we best serve our mission, particularly in regard to our remote and branch campuses. Earlier today, the Board of Regents voted to work toward closing our Qatar campus by 2028. I encourage you to read the official announcement from the System here.
Galveston Quick-Look Final Report, Decisions and Leads
February 8, 2024Thank you for the hospitality during my recent visit. I enjoyed the opportunity to meet and talk with many of you, and I appreciate you taking time out of your busy schedules to hear my thoughts on the next steps for the Galveston campus.
President’s Brief - January 2024
January 18, 2024Happy New Year and welcome back to campus for the start of the 2024 spring semester. I'm excited to start a new year here at Texas A&M University and look forward to continuing to work together to make this place the best it can be.
Correcting Misinformation About Our University
January 7, 2024Several websites and social media sources recently have published inaccuracies and erroneous assumptions about Texas A&M University and its branch campus in Qatar.
Happy Holidays from President and Mrs. Welsh
December 18, 2023As the holidays approach, Betty and I want to thank you for making Texas A&M University such a special place. Like many of you, we’re truly honored to call Aggieland home.
We wish you and your loved ones a very happy, healthy and safe holiday season, and we look forward to seeing in you 2024!
President’s Brief – Dec. 2023
December 13, 2023As the semester draws to a close and we begin to wrap things up for the holiday break, I can’t help but smile. Collectively, we’ve accomplished so much in just a few short months. We’ve come together to acknowledge our missteps, supported one another through change and transition, and taken time to celebrate our achievements and milestones. We are a family, one big Aggie Family, and I’m grateful to the Board of Regents and Chancellor Sharp for their confidence in my abilities to lead this family into the future.
Improving Communication Through Leadership Structure
December 7, 2023Thank you to those of you who joined the State of the University address. I was blown away by how many of you took time out of your busy schedules to attend, which is a testament to how much you care about Texas A&M and our collective future. It was also great to see familiar and new faces in the audience, including Coach Mike Elko. It says a lot about Coach Elko’s dedication and desire to once again be a part of the Aggie Family that he stopped by the meeting. If you weren’t able to tune in live, I hope you’ll watch the recording as time allows.
State of the University Recap
December 1, 2023Thank you to those of you who joined the State of the University address. I was blown away by how many of you took time out of your busy schedules to attend, which is a testament to how much you care about Texas A&M and our collective future. It was also great to see familiar and new faces in the audience, including Coach Mike Elko. It says a lot about Coach Elko’s dedication and desire to once again be a part of the Aggie Family that he stopped by the meeting. If you weren’t able to tune in live, I hope you’ll watch the recording as time allows.
President’s Brief – Nov. 2023
November 21, 2023As we head into the Thanksgiving holiday, like many of you, I’m counting my blessings. And that’s exactly what it’s been to work with you over the past four months. Texas A&M University is truly blessed with an incredible faculty, unbelievable staff and the best students on the planet. It’s a privilege to serve here beside you.
Remembering Bonfire
November 17, 2023I can still feel the weight of the phone in my hand when my oldest son — then a junior at Texas A&M University — woke us with a call to assure us he was OK and not to worry. The Aggie Bonfire had collapsed while under construction, and the situation was dire.
Thank You to Our Veterans
November 11, 2023There may be no greater example of selfless service than the service of our veterans to the country we love. Most of you have veterans in your families. In my family, not only am I a veteran, but my grandfathers, my father, my brother and two of my sons also served. That’s a pretty common story here in Aggieland. And so, on this Veterans Day, let’s take time to recognize and thank all our veterans for the sacrifices they made to keep our nation safe. I’m guessing that when you do, they’ll tell you it was a privilege.
Embodying Our Core Values
November 3, 2023As tensions and violence continue to escalate in the Middle East, I want to ensure our campus remains a safe place for people to express opinions, discuss issues and engage in peaceful discourse. I’m grateful to our students, faculty and staff, as well as former students and community members, who have shared their personal views on the horrific events in the Middle East over the past few weeks.
R. Ethan Braden Appointed Vice President and Chief Marketing and Communications Officer
November 1, 2023I’m pleased to announce R. Ethan Braden as Texas A&M University’s vice president and chief marketing and communications officer, effective Dec. 1. Ethan will report directly to me as a key member of the university’s leadership team.
President’s Brief - October 2023
October 27, 2023I hope this email finds you well. In my first few months in office, I spent a lot of time listening and learning about our university — what was going well and what wasn't. Your thoughts and feedback helped shape my decisions on the quick-look recommendations, which are now moving forward with assigned leads. As promised, I plan to provide periodic updates on those action items, with the first update in the message that follows. My hope is that now that these decisions are in motion, we can start looking forward, through the windshield, and not get stuck staring into the rearview mirror.
Leads Assigned to Quick-Look Actions
October 20, 2023I wanted to update you on the next phase of the quick-look assessment. Since we last met on Oct. 4 to discuss my final decisions, I have assigned leads for action items within the final report. The actions, associated leads and deadlines are now available online.
Message of Support to the Aggie Community
October 13, 2023My heart is broken by the horrible violence in Israel and Gaza. The inexcusable terrorist attack on innocent civilians was shocking, and escalated violence in the region will cost even more innocent lives. War, even when justified, is an ugly thing.
World Mental Health Day
October 10, 2023Today is World Mental Health Day, an opportunity to pause alongside colleagues and classmates and remember the importance of taking care of ourselves and each other. Our university community offers resources to support each and every Aggie. If you’re struggling at all, please take advantage of them.
Quick-Look Assessment Report and Meeting Recording
October 5, 2023During my first month in office, I charged a small team to analyze the effects of the Path Forward. Last week, I updated you on that team’s incredible progress in a short period of time. In just a few weeks, they hosted more than 100 listening sessions with members of the university community to compile their findings and recommendations. I’m grateful for their work!
Preparation for Possible Federal Government Shutdown
September 29, 2023As you may be aware, the possibility of a federal government shutdown is becoming increasingly likely beginning this Sunday, Oct. 1. Our Government Relations (GR) team has been monitoring the issue closely and continues to work with members of Congress and their staff, informing them of the negative impacts that a government shutdown has on university operations, research, and student and campus life.
President’s Brief - September 2023
September 25, 2023Our university leadership team is committed to improving communication and ensuring that necessary information flows effectively to our colleges, divisions and campus organizations. One fairly easy way to maintain transparency from my office is to share regular communication on important operational and administrative updates, along with recent news and accomplishments of our faculty, staff, students and former students via a monthly email. You can expect my President’s Brief each month. While I don’t want to spam you, I’ll also be in touch between editions when necessary.
Input Requested: Quick-Look Assessment Report
September 19, 2023During my first month in office, I charged a small team to analyze the effects of the Path Forward. Last week, I updated you on that team’s incredible progress in a short period of time. In just a few weeks, they hosted more than 100 listening sessions with members of the university community to compile their findings and recommendations. I’m grateful for their work!
An Update on the Quick-Look Assessment
September 15, 2023Texas A&M System Guidance on Senate Bill 17
September 7, 2023A Message from Interim President Mark A. Welsh III
August 25, 2023Commitment to Equal Employment Opportunity
August 23, 2023Welcome back, Aggie Family!
August 21, 2023All-Faculty and Staff Virtual Meeting Recap
August 18, 2023Our Commitment to Academic Freedom
August 2, 2023Earlier today, I had a chance to conduct some of my first media interviews right from Texas A&M's living room – the Flag Room in the Memorial Student Center. One of the topics I addressed was the issue of academic freedom, which has received significant attention recently.
A Message from Interim President Mark A. Welsh III
July 31, 2023It’s humbling to be named interim president of Texas A&M University. Thank you to the Board of Regents and Chancellor Sharp for their confidence in me stepping into this position at such an important time.
Being the interim president of this remarkable institution is a privilege, and I pledge to every Aggie that I will work tirelessly to represent this great university in a way that reflects your pride in it. I’m grateful for the opportunity.
A Message from Acting President Mark A. Welsh III
July 26, 2023Messages from M. Katherine Banks
President June 1, 2021 - July 20, 2023
Administrative Update: Texas A&M Health
July 18, 2023Update on State Legislative Session
June 26, 2023On Monday, June 19, Gov. Greg Abbott approved a record $1.19 billion in new spending for The Texas A&M University System. This includes new funding of $277.6 million to Texas A&M University, $4.8 million to Texas A&M University at Galveston and $90.8 million to Texas A&M Health Science Center for the upcoming biennium (Fiscal Years 2024-2025), which begins on Sept. 1. These funds will enable us to advance important work that supports our faculty, staff and students.
Alan Sams Named Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
May 23, 2023I am pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Alan Sams as the next provost and vice president for academic affairs effective June 1. The Provost Search Advisory Committee presented a slate of three highly qualified candidates for the position, including Dr. Sams. After careful consideration, I selected Dr. Sams to serve in this important role.
Galveston Organizational Review
May 19, 2023With the close of the spring semester, I want to thank those who provided input and shared interest in the Galveston organizational review process. The feedback provided valuable insight as I, along with the executive leadership team, reviewed each recommendation. Now that the evaluation is complete, my response to the Galveston MGT report can be found online at tx.ag/GalvestonOrgReview with supporting documentation, including the stakeholder report and survey responses.
President's Monthly Update: May 2023
May 15, 2023As we come to the end of another successful spring semester, I want to thank you for your commitment to our mission, our students and our community.
President's Monthly Update: April 2023
April 17, 2023The core values of this university, its rich traditions and unique culture make Texas A&M one of a kind. They also bring generations of Aggies together. Last weekend, I was honored to participate in Family Weekend, a cherished tradition that began in 1919 shortly after World War I.
President's Monthly Update: March 2023
March 20, 2023I hope you enjoyed the long weekend and are ready for the final stretch of the spring semester. Spring is always a busy time, and this semester is no exception.
Seeking Input: Galveston Campus Organizational Review
January 24, 2023A high-level, comprehensive review of major functional areas, including organizational structure of Texas A&M Galveston, was recently completed. Your feedback is a critical step in the process and will help determine which recommendations are accepted, rejected, modified or require further study. The survey deadline initially set for February 24 has been extended to Friday, March 10, in an effort to provide ample opportunity for all to provide input.
President's Monthly Update: Feb. 2023
February 13, 2023I hope this email finds you well. As I’ve mentioned on numerous occasions, the importance of community connectivity is one of Texas A&M’s greatest strengths. As part of the university’s renewed focus on communities, I’m excited about our plans to expand our footprint across the state.
President's Monthly Update: Jan. 2023
January 17, 2023As students return to our campuses this week, I’m pleased to launch this monthly communication to share information about important initiatives. As I referenced in my January 2 email to the university community, I’m committed to intentional communications and engagement as we work to remain relevant, create opportunity and influence society in new ways.
Search Committee Members Announced for Provost and VP for Academic Affairs
January 13, 2023I'm pleased to announce that I am appointing a 15-member search committee co-chaired by Dr. N. K. Anand and Speaker Dale Rice to begin our internal search within The Texas A&M University System for the next provost and vice president for academic affairs.
Welcome back to campus
January 2, 2023Howdy, and welcome back! I look forward to our campus coming back to life as students return later this month. I hope each of you enjoyed the winter break and were able to spend time recharging and reconnecting with friends and family.
As we kick off a new year and new semester, we do so with a sense of hope and optimism for what lies ahead.
Happy Holidays
December 19, 2022As the holidays approach and the end of the semester nears, I would like to take this opportunity to pause and reflect upon the last year. As a community, we took many important steps to lay the groundwork for our future success. Embracing tremendous change and opportunity, you all have remained committed to our founding mission with unfailing success. Because of your hard work and dedication, we are positioned to advance Texas A&M like never before. I am grateful to each of you.
Environmental Policy Endorsement
December 6, 2022At Texas A&M University, we are committed to sustainable practices that protect our assets, respect the health, safety and well-being of our community, and provide accountability for the natural resources entrusted to us. Our dedication and The Texas A&M University System Regulation (24.01.03) to factor environmental issues "in planning, acquisitions, designs, construction, operations, maintenance and activities" informs how we conduct ourselves daily on campus. As president, I endorse this policy.
A Thanksgiving Message
November 21, 2022At this time of Thanksgiving, I would like to express my personal appreciation to each of you, our students, faculty and staff, for making Texas A&M University such a special place. As an Aggie family, we have a unique bond. We are committed to the success of one another. We uphold our core values. And, collectively, we advance our institution’s relevance, create opportunity and influence our society. I am incredibly thankful for your dedication to Texas A&M. Please enjoy this special time with your loved ones and friends.
A day of remembrance, a day of unity
November 18, 2022Today is an important day of remembrance, reflection and unity. A day that is forever embedded in Texas A&M's history.
Our university changed at 2:42 a.m. on Nov. 18, 1999 with the collapse of the Bonfire stack. Eleven students and one former student tragically lost their lives, and 27 others were injured.
Honoring our Veterans
November 11, 2022Each year on the 11th day of the 11th month, we pause to express our gratitude to our nation’s veterans for their service. At Texas A&M, we have a deep appreciation for the meaning of this service and the associated sacrifice.
Welcome to a new academic year
August 24, 2022Whether you are experiencing your first few days on campus or are a returning member of our Aggie community, it is my pleasure to welcome you to the 2022-2023 academic year at Texas A&M.
Alan Sams named Interim Provost, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer
August 16, 2022I am pleased to announce that Dr. Alan Sams has been selected as the new Interim Provost, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer for Texas A&M University effective Aug. 22. Dr. Sams brings a breadth and depth of experience to this role that will be valuable in leading our academic enterprise.
End of Semester Thank You and Best Wishes
May 9, 2022As the spring semester comes to a close, I would like to thank each of you for your hard work and contributions to the success of our students. This semester has brought the advent of many changes. Change can be challenging, but sometimes necessary. The landscape for all universities is crowded and competitive. We must continuously improve, and elevate our expectations while living our core values. This is what will drive us to the next level.
2022 President's Meritorious Service Award Recipients
March 30, 2022Remarks to the Texas A&M University Student Senate
February 22, 2022I was honored to speak to the Student Senate last night. There were many thoughtful and insightful questions posed. One senator asked if I would share my thoughts with the wider student body, and I am pleased to do so. My statement to the Student Senate is below.
Journalism Working Group to Include Representatives from The Battalion
February 14, 2022I care deeply about journalism at Texas A&M. That is why I decided in December to rebuild a strong journalism degree program here. I also believe that we should return to the very successful model which existed at Texas A&M previously when The Battalion was associated with the journalism department.
The reaction to this plan makes it clear that I should seek additional community feedback on the role of The Battalion and the rebuilt Department of Journalism, while also getting feedback about industry trends and future workforce needs.
A message from President Banks
January 21, 2022In my response to the MGT report recommendations, I announced the creation of a Vice President for Faculty Affairs position with a selection committee of Interim Provost Tim Scott, Vice Presidents Greg Hartman and Jack Baldauf, Faculty Senate Speaker Dale Rice and me. Over the last few weeks, five applications were submitted from candidates interested in this new role. Three candidates were interviewed by the selection committee. I am pleased to announce that the committee unanimously selected Professor N.K. Anand as the inaugural Vice President for Faculty Affairs, effective Feb 1.
The Path Forward
December 14, 2021President Banks tests positive for COVID-19
November 12, 2021A Thank You From President Banks On Veterans Day
November 11, 2021MGT Report Feedback Deadline Extended
November 5, 2021Seeking Input
October 25, 2021Action items from Faculty Senate meeting
September 14, 2021Best Wishes For A Productive And Safe Semester
August 30, 2021I am so pleased to welcome everyone to the fall semester of 2021.
Taking a Cautious Approach
August 11, 2021Since taking office as president on June 1, I have looked forward to Friday’s commencement ceremony. I am extremely disappointed to learn that I will not be able to attend in person to address the more than 2,000 graduates who have earned their degrees.
Fall 2021 COVID-19 Management and Guidance Plans
August 5, 2021Texas A&M University is scheduled to continue in-person classes at full capacity for the fall semester. Considering the continued infection rates in the nation and recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, the university is asking the campus community to do its part by taking important steps to keep Aggieland healthy and safe.
Statement On SEC Expansion
July 24, 2021The last few days have been challenging in many ways, and I recognize that change in college athletics often is unsettling for those who love their institutions. Rest assured, the chancellor, our athletic director, and I, and everyone involved in this matter are focused solely on what is best for Texas A&M University. Since 2011, we have been a proud member of the best intercollegiate athletic conference in history and we look forward to continued success in our SEC partnership for many years to come.
Reflecting On Service, Sacrifice This Fourth of July
July 2, 2021Two hundred and forty-five years ago, our founders signed the Declaration of Independence. More than a defining moment in our history, it stands as a symbol of sacrifice.
Finally, Juneteenth is a federal holiday
June 18, 2021Texas A&M is proud to join the rest of the nation in finally proclaiming Juneteenth as a federal holiday. In doing so, we mark a moment in history and recommit ourselves to working together to create a brighter future.
Texas A&M President M. Katherine Banks announces new university leadership team
June 3, 2021Earlier this week, I announced that I am conducting a comprehensive review of the university’s operations with the goal of developing an administrative structure that is effective, efficient and flexible, while directing our valuable resources toward our mission: the success of our students, faculty and staff.
Howdy From President Banks
June 1, 2021First and foremost, it is with immense pride and enthusiasm that I begin my service as president of this great institution today. It is truly an honor to be part of something so respected and admired around the world.