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Bryan Today
By the People, for the People
Texas A&M Names Susan Ballabina as Sole Finalist for University President
Ballabina, the current Executive Vice Chancellor, is poised to lead the university into its 150th year.
Apr. 13, 2026 at 9:55pm
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The vibrant colors and bold graphic style of this pop art illustration capture the celebratory energy surrounding Texas A&M University's 150th anniversary and the appointment of a new president to lead the institution into the future.Bryan TodayThe Texas A&M University System Board of Regents has named Susan Ballabina, the current Executive Vice Chancellor of the Texas A&M University System, as the sole finalist for the university's president position. Ballabina, who has held various senior leadership roles at both the university and the A&M System, was selected after a months-long search process following the controversial departure of former President Mark Welsh III.
Why it matters
The selection of Ballabina as the next president of Texas A&M University comes at a critical juncture for the institution, as it prepares to celebrate its 150th anniversary. Her extensive experience within the A&M System and collaborative leadership style are seen as key assets that will guide the university forward during this milestone period.
The details
Ballabina currently serves as the Executive Vice Chancellor of the Texas A&M University System, where she oversees system-wide operations, advances strategic initiatives, and works closely with the Board of Regents, university presidents, and agency leadership across Texas. Prior to this role, she has held various senior positions at both the university and the A&M System, including 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.
- The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents named Ballabina as the lone finalist on April 13, 2026.
- The presidential search has been underway since former President Mark Welsh III resigned on September 19, 2025, following a viral video controversy involving a classroom discussion about gender identity.
- Former state Senator Tommy Williams was appointed as interim president in October 2025, after the board's initial search committee was formed.
The players
Susan Ballabina
The current Executive Vice Chancellor of the Texas A&M University System, who has been named the sole finalist for the university's president position.
Robert L. Albritton
The Chairman of the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents, who expressed confidence in Ballabina's ability to lead the university.
Glenn Hegar
The Chancellor of the Texas A&M University System, who praised Ballabina's leadership and preparation to guide the university forward.
Mark Welsh III
The former President of Texas A&M University, who resigned in September 2025 following a controversial video incident.
Tommy Williams
The former state Senator who was appointed as interim president of Texas A&M University in October 2025.
What they’re saying
“On behalf of the Board, we are confident Dr. Ballabina is the right leader for Texas A&M University. 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.”
— Robert L. Albritton, Chairman, Texas A&M University System Board of Regents
“Dr. Ballabina is a proven leader who understands this institution, the people it serves and the responsibility it carries for the State of Texas. 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.”
— Glenn Hegar, Chancellor, Texas A&M University System
What’s next
The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents will hold a public hearing on Ballabina's nomination on April 25, 2026, after which they will vote on whether to officially appoint her as the university's next president.
The takeaway
The selection of Susan Ballabina as the sole finalist for the Texas A&M University presidency represents a strategic choice to maintain continuity and stability within the institution as it prepares to celebrate its 150th anniversary. Ballabina's deep understanding of the university and the broader A&M System, combined with her collaborative leadership style, are seen as key assets that will guide the university forward during this milestone period.
