On July 1, 2025, Glenn Hegar officially began his tenure as Chancellor of The Texas A&M University System, succeeding John Sharp, who served as Chancellor for nearly 14 years. Hegar, a Texas A&M University graduate and former Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, brings over two decades of public service experience to the role. His appointment marks a significant transition for the university system, which serves more than 165,000 students across 11 universities, eight state agencies, and a health science center.(fox7austin.com, abc7amarillo.com)
In his first official statement as Chancellor, Hegar expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead one of the nation’s largest and most influential higher education systems. He emphasized his commitment to upholding the core values that distinguish the Texas A&M System and to fostering an environment that prepares students for success in a rapidly evolving world.(stories.tamu.edu)
Hegar’s leadership is expected to focus on several key areas: expanding access to higher education, enhancing academic excellence, and strengthening the system’s regional universities. He has outlined a vision that includes increasing collaboration across state agencies and with other universities to address educational and workforce needs. This approach aims to ensure that the Texas A&M System remains responsive to the state’s growing population and economic demands.(fox7austin.com, myplainview.com)
A significant development under Hegar’s leadership is the planned expansion of the Texas A&M University–Victoria campus. Following the passage of Senate Bill 2361 and the allocation of $25 million in new legislative funding, A&M–Victoria will become part of the Texas A&M System. This expansion underscores the system’s commitment to increasing access to higher education and supporting regional economies.(news.tamus.edu, fox7austin.com)
To support these initiatives, Hegar has announced key appointments to his leadership team. Susan Ballabina, Ph.D., has been named Executive Vice Chancellor, bringing extensive experience from her previous roles at Texas A&M University. Chris Bryan will serve as Vice Chancellor of Marketing and Communications, and Ryan Griffin has been appointed Vice Chancellor and Chief Financial Officer. Additionally, Korry Castillo will become the Chief Strategy Officer, and Kim Buzard will continue in her role as Hegar’s executive assistant. These appointments reflect Hegar’s commitment to assembling a team that combines institutional knowledge with fresh perspectives.(news.tamus.edu)
Hegar’s background as Texas Comptroller provides him with a unique perspective on the financial and operational aspects of the university system. During his tenure as Comptroller, he managed the state’s budget and economic forecasting, contributing to Texas’ emergence as the eighth-largest economy in the world. This experience is expected to inform his approach to managing the Texas A&M System’s $7.3 billion budget and to drive initiatives aimed at operational efficiency and fiscal responsibility.(ketr.org, abc7amarillo.com)
Beyond administrative priorities, Hegar has expressed a strong commitment to the core values of the Texas A&M System, including excellence, integrity, leadership, loyalty, respect, and selfless service. He has emphasized the importance of these values in guiding the system’s mission and in preparing students to become leaders who positively impact their communities.(fox7austin.com)
As Chancellor, Hegar faces the challenge of continuing the growth and success of the Texas A&M University System while adapting to the evolving landscape of higher education. His leadership will be instrumental in shaping the future of the system and in ensuring that it remains a vital resource for students, faculty, and the broader Texas community.(kbtx.com)
In the coming months, Hegar plans to engage with university presidents, agency leaders, and key stakeholders to gather input and outline his priorities. This collaborative approach aims to build consensus around the system’s strategic direction and to identify opportunities for innovation and improvement.(news.tamus.edu)
As Texas continues to experience rapid population growth and economic development, the role of higher education becomes increasingly critical. Under Hegar’s leadership, the Texas A&M University System is poised to play a central role in addressing the state’s educational and workforce needs. Through a focus on academic excellence, operational efficiency, and a commitment to core values, Hegar aims to guide the system into a new era of success and impact.(myplainview.com)
The appointment of Glenn Hegar as Chancellor represents a new chapter for the Texas A&M University System. With a clear vision and a strong leadership team, Hegar is well-positioned to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. His tenure will be closely watched as a measure of the system’s ability to adapt to changing demands and to continue its tradition of excellence in higher education.
As the Texas A&M University System embarks on this new phase, the leadership of Glenn Hegar offers a blend of experience, vision, and commitment to the values that have long defined the institution. His efforts will be crucial in shaping the future of higher education in Texas and in ensuring that the Texas A&M System remains a leader in preparing students for success in an increasingly complex world.
In summary, Glenn Hegar’s appointment as Chancellor of the Texas A&M University System marks a significant moment in the institution’s history. With a focus on expanding access, enhancing academic excellence, and strengthening regional universities, Hegar is set to lead the system into a new era. His leadership will be instrumental in addressing the evolving educational and workforce needs of Texas, ensuring that the Texas A&M University System continues to serve as a vital resource for students and communities across the state.(houstonchronicle.com, fox7austin.com)
