The Texas A&M University System board of regents unanimously voted to appoint Susan Ballabina as its 28th president, the university announced May 6.
What's happening
Ballabina will assume the role beginning May 11, directly following the state's required three-week waiting period after being named sole finalist for the position. She will oversee the system's 12 universities and nearly 175,000 students.
Currently serving as executive vice chancellor for the A&M System, Ballabina oversees systemwide operations and strategic initiatives. She brings more than three decades of experience with Texas A&M, including leadership roles as chief of staff to the president, senior vice president for academic and strategic collaborations and deputy vice chancellor and chief operating officer for Texas A&M AgriLife.
What leaders are saying
System Chancellor Glenn Hegar said Ballabina's experience and understanding of the university's mission made her the right choice to lead the institution.
“Texas A&M has always been defined by its mission and the people who serve it,” Hegar said. “Leading this university requires an understanding of that responsibility and a willingness to keep the focus on what matters most. Dr. Ballabina has shown throughout her career that she understands that, and that is a big part of why she is the right choice to lead Texas A&M forward.”
Ballabina said she is honored by the appointment and looks forward to working with all to continue building on the university's foundation.
“Texas A&M has a strong foundation, a clear mission, and passionate faculty, staff, students, and former students who care deeply about its future,” Ballabina said. “I’m grateful for the trust placed in me by the regents and Chancellor Hegar, and I look forward to working alongside the Aggie community to build on that strength and move the university forward.”
One more thing
Regents also thanked interim President Tommy Williams for guiding the university during the leadership transition.
