COLLEGE STATION, Texas (KBTX/Gray News) – The president at Texas A&M University has stepped down from his role, effective Friday afternoon.
Chancellor Glenn Hegar and the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents announced Mark Welsh’s departure on Thursday following a board meeting that lasted nearly two hours.
Welsh had faced renewed calls for his resignation or firing from some conservative Texans because of a controversy stemming from a video of a classroom disagreement over gender studies curriculum that ended in the termination of a professor.
Hegar and Board Chairman Robert Albritton released a statement thanking Welsh for his service to the university and the country.
“President Welsh is a man of honor who has led Texas A&M with selfless dedication,” said Hegar. “We are grateful for his service and contributions. At the same time, we agree that now is the right moment to make a change and to position Texas A&M for continued excellence in the years ahead.”
The Board of Regents promised a national search for a new university president, as well as the timely appointment of an interim leader for the flagship campus.
“General Welsh’s legacy of leadership and service is one that the Aggie family will always remember. The Board of Regents is united in ensuring that this transition strengthens the university’s future and keeps Texas A&M true to its mission and values,” Albritton added.
Late last week, Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick called for additional action related to Welsh.
“Most parents, students, and Aggie alumni expect Texas A&M to reflect the values of our state and our nation as well as A&M’s rich history,” Patrick previously posted on X. “If President Welsh will not or cannot reflect those values, then change needs to happen.”
The Texas A&M Student Government Association, Aggie Moms and other groups sent preemptive letters to the Board of Regents in support of the embattled leader, hoping to avoid Welsh’s separation from Texas A&M.
“We felt the need to lay out the context of who President Welsh is, who he’s been to students, trying to lay the groundwork of saying that we do appreciate him being here,” said Texas A&M student body president Carter Mallory of the efforts to retain Welsh. “We want that to remain the case, and we’re grateful for his leadership.”
The George & Barbara Bush Foundation also issued a statement in support of Welsh following the announcement.
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