Texas A&M Chancellor Faces High-Stakes Challenges

Texas A&M University System Chancellor Glenn Hegar is navigating a complex landscape in higher education, marked by political pressures and evolving expectations. His tenure, which began in June, has quickly presented significant challenges, including a viral video controversy and the subsequent resignation of a university president. Hegar, a former state politician, is tasked with steering a vast university system through a period of intense scrutiny and ideological shifts.

Hegar's Early Tenure and Initial Vision

Glenn Hegar assumed the role of Chancellor for the Texas A&M University System in June. His appointment followed a long career in Texas politics, including serving as state comptroller for a decade. Hegar's background includes more than 20 years in public service, managing large budgets and engaging with state lawmakers.

Early in his tenure, Hegar outlined his vision for higher education. He stressed that universities must adapt to societal needs, focusing on preparing students for the workforce. He noted a constant demand for education and skilled labor.

During a visit to Texas A&M University-Victoria on September 4, Hegar stated that the "vast majority" of people do not want personal opinions injected into classroom instruction. He believed the A&M System was effectively delivering quality education to its students.

Viral Video Controversy and System Response

Less than four months into Hegar's leadership, a significant controversy emerged. A leaked video circulated widely, showing an A&M student challenging a professor's discussion of gender identity in a children's literature class. This incident quickly drew national attention.

The U.S. Justice Department's civil rights division initiated an inquiry. Texas Governor Greg Abbott and Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick also demanded action at the College Station campus. The event created division among Aggies, with some concerned about academic freedom and others upset by the course content.

Hegar responded swiftly. He publicly labeled the professor's lesson as "indoctrination." He supported the decision to terminate the professor's employment and announced a system-wide audit of all courses. This decisive action aimed to address the concerns raised by state officials and parts of the alumni community.

"Both the Board of Regents and I agree that this is the right moment for change," Hegar stated on September 18, following the resignation of President Welsh. "Together, we believe this transition is necessary to ensure Texas A&M is well positioned for the future, a future that demands bold leadership, continued innovation, and an unwavering commitment to the core values of this university to meet the challenges we face."

President Mark A. Welsh III's Resignation

The controversy intensified, leading to calls for the resignation of Texas A&M University President Mark A. Welsh III. Welsh, a retired four-star general, was popular among students and faculty. However, he faced criticism over the university's initial handling of the student's concerns and a perception of being too supportive of "diversity, equity, and inclusion" (DEI) initiatives.

Despite his popularity, Welsh's position became untenable. Hegar announced Welsh's resignation on September 18. This move underscored the significant political pressure exerted on the university system's leadership.

Hegar's Political Acumen and Leadership Style

Experts in Texas politics view Hegar as an even-handed leader, but acknowledge the difficulty of balancing competing interests in the current higher education climate. Bill Miller, a veteran lobbyist, suggested that Hegar, relatively new to the chancellor role, might have accepted the situation with President Welsh as a "fait accompli."

Hegar's political background is extensive. He served as a state representative in 2003, a state senator in 2007, and comptroller in 2015. The Board of Regents selected Hegar for his deep connections within Texas politics and his experience managing a large state budget.

Chris Bryan, Hegar’s vice chancellor of marketing and communications, noted that Hegar enjoys not being on a ballot anymore. However, Hegar still leverages his political skills during university visits, engaging with stakeholders and revving up crowds.

The Role of Legislative Connections

Hegar's strong ties to lawmakers are a key asset, particularly in securing state funding for A&M System programs and initiatives. However, these connections also mean that the Legislature can influence university policies through funding mechanisms.

Some A&M faculty members expressed concern about these dynamics, especially given the passage of Senate Bill 37. This new law grants regents more authority over hiring decisions and curriculum. Regents, appointed by the governor, determine the chancellor's salary, approve budgets, and ensure compliance with state laws.

Evolving Landscape of University Leadership

Hegar is one of several former legislators recently appointed to lead Texas university systems. Former Representative John Zerwas now leads the University of Texas System, and Senator Brandon Creighton heads the Texas Tech System. Brian McCall, already chancellor of the Texas State University System, also has a legislative background.

This trend highlights a shift towards appointing leaders with political experience rather than solely academic backgrounds. Political science professor Cal Jillson of Southern Methodist University noted that political authorities in Texas have aimed to exert more direct control over state universities for over a decade. He suggests that university leaders who prioritize traditional academic values are increasingly being sidelined.

Hegar downplayed these concerns in an early September interview. He argued that the perception of tension in higher education is often worse than the reality. He emphasized that while faculty often criticize changes, the system's primary responsibility is to the people of Texas.

Focus on Workforce Development and Rural Outreach

Hegar firmly believes that higher education should be guided by industry needs. He structures the A&M System's priorities around three pillars: students, research, and service. He sees the Texas economy as central to all three, emphasizing a duty to align programs and research with statewide economic needs.

He plans to enhance A&M's rural focus, particularly in communities served by its regional universities. This approach has already garnered support, notably at Texas A&M-Victoria. This institution recently transitioned from the University of Houston System to benefit from A&M's strong agricultural programs.

John Zacek, an alumnus in agriculture lending, praised Hegar's approach. "Let's start with where the jobs are, and let's work backwards," Zacek said. He added, "I know he'll listen. He's very much a listener."

Challenges Ahead for the Texas A&M System

The recent controversies are likely not the last for Chancellor Hegar. One immediate task is to lead the search for a new president for the 79,000-student flagship university. Many Aggies believe this appointment will significantly shape the university's future direction.

Other campuses face similar issues. State Representative Brian Harrison has publicly pressured Hegar and the regents to block Christian Hardigree as the sole finalist for president of Texas A&M-Victoria. Harrison cited Hardigree's resume, which included achievements in hiring and managing diverse faculty and staff.

Senate Bill 37, which increases regent power, could also lead to further challenges. Some predict it may result in the removal of controversial topics from core curriculum classes and potentially diminish the authority of both the chancellor and university presidents.

However, Hegar remains optimistic. He believes that legislative changes do not fundamentally alter the system's core mission. "I don't personally think that any particular piece of legislation has fundamentally uprooted the entire garden. The entire forest is still there," he said. He added, "I've been around the political process long enough that you always hear the piece of legislation and the hyperventilating. But you know what happens tomorrow? The sun comes up."