Texas A&M President Steps Down Amid Controversy

Introduction to the Controversy

The president of Texas A&M University, Mark A. Welsh III, has stepped down from his position, effective Friday, according to an announcement by System Chancellor Glenn Hegar and the university system board of regents. This decision comes after a video surfaced on social media showing a confrontation between a student and a professor during a course discussion on gender identity.

Background on the Incident

The video, posted by Republican state Rep. Brian Harrison, led to the professor, Melissa McCoul, being fired after Harrison accused her of "DEI and LGBTQ indoctrination." The incident sparked controversy and criticism from high-ranking state officials, including Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick.

By JUAN A. LOZANO, Associated Press

HOUSTON (AP) — The president of Texas A&M University, roiled by the posting of a video showing a confrontation between a student and a professor during a course in which gender identity was discussed, on Friday did not offer a specific reason for why he’s stepping down but said in the past few days “it’s become clear that now is that time” to leave.

The President’s Statement

In a written statement, Welsh did not mention the video or the controversy surrounding it as a reason for his resignation. Instead, he stated, "When I was first appointed as President of Texas A&M University, I told then Chancellor John Sharp and our Board of Regents that I would serve as well as I possibly could until it was time for someone else to take over. Over the past few days, it’s become clear that now is that time.”

Reaction from the University

The university’s board of regents acknowledged the challenges faced by the institution and agreed that a change in leadership was necessary for the university’s future. Robert Albritton, chair of the board of regents, said, "The Board recognizes the university faces challenges that must be addressed. Pres. Welsh’s decision to resign comes at a critical moment, and we agree with him that now is the right time for change in leadership to ensure (Texas A&M University) is well positioned for the future.”

Texas A&M University President Mark A. Welsh, left, addresses the crowd inside Kyle Field as his wife Betty looks on during Midnight Yell in College Station, Texas, Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025. (AP Photo/Sam Craft, File)

Context of the Controversy

The controversy at Texas A&M is part of a larger national debate over issues of gender identity, sexual orientation, and diversity, equity, and inclusion practices in educational institutions. A recent Texas law prohibits the teaching of sexual orientation or gender identity in K-12 schools, although it does not apply to universities.

About the University and Its President

Texas A&M University, located in College Station, is one of the largest public universities in the country, with over 70,000 students. Mark A. Welsh III became president in December 2023, following a long military career with the U.S. Air Force and serving as dean of the Bush School of Government and Public Service at A&M.

Texas A&M University President Mark Welsh, center, accompanied by his wife, Betty, exits the administration building after resigning in College Station, Texas, on Friday, Sept. 19, 2025. (Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman via AP)

Conclusion

The resignation of Texas A&M University President Mark A. Welsh III marks a significant development in the ongoing debates over diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education. While the exact reasons for his departure are not specified, the timing coincides with heightened controversy and scrutiny of the university’s practices. As educational institutions navigate these challenges, the impact on leadership and the future direction of universities like Texas A&M will be closely watched.

FAQs

1. Why did the Texas A&M University president step down?

   • The president, Mark A. Welsh III, did not specify the reason for his resignation but indicated it was the right time for a change in leadership.

2. What was the controversy surrounding the university?

   • A video showed a confrontation between a student and a professor over a discussion on gender identity, leading to criticism and the professor’s firing.

3. Is Texas A&M University affected by the new Texas law on teaching gender identity?

   • The law applies to K-12 schools, not universities, so Texas A&M is not directly affected by the prohibition on teaching sexual orientation or gender identity.

4. Who will lead the university after the president’s resignation?

   • The announcement did not specify an interim or permanent replacement for President Welsh.
5. What is the context of the controversy at Texas A&M?
   • The issue is part of a broader national debate over diversity, equity, and inclusion practices in educational institutions, with various universities facing scrutiny and criticism.