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, as the lone finalist for the university’s president.
“On behalf of the Board, we are confident Dr. Ballabina is the right leader for Texas A&M University,” said 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 special meeting on Monday afternoon, naming a finalist for the role, more than six months after the controversial departure of former President Mark Welsh III.
On April 7, Regents spent more than five hours in closed session reviewing candidates for the position. No action was taken at the meeting.
The presidential search has been underway since Welsh resigned on Sept. 19, 2025, following a viral video controversy involving a classroom discussion about gender identity.
Ballabina currently serves as Executive Vice Chancellor of the Texas A&M University System, where she oversees systemwide operations, advances key strategic initiatives and works closely with the Board of Regents, university presidents and agency leadership across Texas.
Ballabina has held senior leadership roles at both the university and 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.
“Dr. Ballabina is a proven leader who understands this institution, the people it serves and the responsibility it carries for the State of Texas,” said 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 search for a new president began, Ballabina was on the search committee. Regents say she formally recused herself before applying to the position and had no role in evaluating candidates.
Ballabina received her bachelor’s degree from Tarleton State University, master’s from Stephen F. Austin State University, and doctorate in public affairs from The University of Texas at Dallas. She has been recognized 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 academic affairs, briefly served as acting president before the board unanimously approved former state Senator Tommy Williams as interim president in October 2025. A 16-member search committee was also appointed that month, including board members, faculty, staff, students, administrators, 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 said. “He has provided stability and continuity for the university, and we appreciate his continued commitment to the institution.”
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