Having worked alongside so many dedicated members of this university for the past 30 years, I've seen firsthand the remarkable impact Texas A&M has on students, communities and our state. I am honored by the trust and confidence of the Board of Regents and Chancellor [Glenn] Hegar, and if given the opportunity, I look forward to building on the incredible work already underway and leading Texas A&M into its next chapter.
In a letter sent to faculty and staff obtained by KBTX, Provost and Executive Vice President Dr. Alan Sams said the decision was made "as part of the broader implementation of the recently updated Systems policy". He claimed that the Texas university "made the difficult decision to begin winding down the Women's and Gender Studies (WGST) academic programs, including the BA, BS, Graduate Certificate and the Minor", claiming it was due to "enrolment over the past several years".
If passed and signed into law, the bill would replace the student regent with a ninth one appointed by the governor. In addition, seven new nonvoting member seats would be established: three for students, two for state senators and two for state representatives. The proposed legislation also details several new policies and programs the board would be required to establish and would give members of the state's General Assembly the ability to override board and university expenditures through a joint resolution.
The Smithsonian Institution's statement clarifies its independence, asserting that all personnel decisions lie with Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch, despite President Trump's claims.