Introduction to the Controversy
The Texas A&M University System paid former President Mark A. Welsh III more than $3.5 million after he resigned amid the fallout of a controversy over the teaching of gender identity issues. This payment was part of his separation agreement, which was obtained through a public records request.
Background on President Welsh
Welsh became president in 2023, and his contract ran through December 2028 with a $1.1 million annual salary. He had a little more than three years remaining when he resigned. In addition to his salary, he was also eligible for a $150,000 retention bonus on each anniversary of the agreement, plus a $150,000 housing allowance each year.
The Controversy and Resignation
The controversy began when a secret recording of a classroom discussion about gender identity went viral on September 8, prompting conservative lawmakers, including Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, to publicly criticize Welsh for initially refusing to fire the professor involved. He later fired the professor and demoted the dean and department head. Welsh’s last day as president was September 19, and the board approved his separation agreement on September 26.
Details of the Separation Agreement
In the days before he stepped down, Welsh had pushed for a full payout of the remainder of his contract, something that Welsh seemingly believed some members of the Board of Regents were opposed to, according to communications reviewed. On September 17, two days before he resigned, Welsh emailed Chancellor Glenn Hegar and Executive Vice Chancellor Susan Ballabina, telling them that Board of Regents Chair Robert Albritton supported giving Welsh a full payout.
Reactions and Implications
Welsh’s payout follows a series of costly leadership and reputational crises at Texas A&M. In August 2023, regents approved a $1 million settlement with journalism professor Kathleen McElroy after the university watered down her job offer following conservative criticism of her past diversity work. The controversy led to the resignation of then-President M. Katherine Banks. Regents brought in Welsh to replace her and stabilize the university. Months later, in November 2023, Texas A&M agreed to pay more than $75 million to buy out head football coach Jimbo Fisher, the largest buyout in college sports history.
Conclusion
The resignation of President Mark A. Welsh III and his subsequent payout of more than $3.5 million have raised questions about the handling of controversies and the costs associated with leadership changes at Texas A&M University. The incident highlights the challenges universities face in balancing academic freedom with public scrutiny and the financial implications of such controversies. Welsh declined a request for comment, and his separation agreement included a provision that he not discuss the payout or disparage the university.
