Introduction to the Controversy
The president of Texas A&M University, Mark A. Welsh, has announced his resignation after a week of controversy surrounding a class that included "gender ideology." This decision comes as several Republican state leaders have publicly backed the call for new leadership.
Background on the Resignation
Mark A. Welsh III, a four-star general who served on the Joint Chiefs of Staff during the Obama administration, is leaving the role after two years as president. The resignation was announced by the A&M University System on Thursday evening and follows a disagreement between a professor and a student over LGBTQ-related curriculum. This incident was publicized by Texas state Rep. Brian Harrison on social media.
Response from the Resigned President
In his first comments since the resignation was announced, Welsh expressed his gratitude to the university, its leaders, and its students for his time as president. He wrote a message to the A&M community, thanking them and stating that he will always see the university as a "shining city on a hill" that welcomed him and his family. Welsh also mentioned that the university shaped his children and now his grandchildren in a wonderful, values-based way.
Reactions from State Leaders
Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick
Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick believes that Welsh’s resignation was the right decision and is best for everyone at this time. Patrick had previously criticized Welsh’s handling of the altercation between the student and professor, stating that he lacked confidence in Welsh. A spokesperson for Patrick wrote that this path forward gives new Chancellor Glenn Hegar a fresh start to build his team at Texas A&M.
State Senator Paul Bettencourt
State Senator Paul Bettencourt criticized the perceived turnover in A&M leadership, noting that Welsh’s resignation is the second in two years. This means that Texas A&M will have its third president in just three years. Bettencourt emphasized that consistency should be the hallmark of campus leadership and called for the next leader to gather all of the university’s teaching and research assets to propel the university forward.
Community Response
Texas A&M Professors’ Union
The A&M chapter of the American Association of University Professors acknowledged Welsh’s resignation and thanked him for his service and dedication to the university’s mission and vision. The union looks forward to a transparent search for a new president who stands for academic freedom and shared governance.
Texas A&M Students
Hundreds of Texas A&M students applauded Welsh outside the university’s administration offices as he and his wife exited the building. Students expressed that Welsh’s resignation leaves an impact on academic freedom on campus. One graduate student mentioned that the idea of being fired over what you teach is upsetting, while a sophomore called for the Board of Regents to reexamine who they are supporting.
Other Reactions
Governor Greg Abbott
Governor Greg Abbott did not return a request for comment from Houston Public Media.
A&M System Chancellor Glenn Hegar
Chancellor Glenn Hegar stated that President Welsh is a man of honor who has led Texas A&M with selfless dedication. Hegar expressed gratitude for Welsh’s service and contributions, agreeing that now is the right moment to make a change and position Texas A&M for continued excellence.
Conclusion
The resignation of Texas A&M University President Mark A. Welsh has sparked a range of reactions from state leaders and the community. As the university begins its search for a new president, it is clear that the next leader will face challenges in balancing academic freedom, shared governance, and the values of the university. The Texas A&M System Board of Regents will appoint an interim president and start the search for a new president in the coming days, marking a new chapter for the university.
