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BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION, Texas — The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents today approved two senior executive appointments that reinforce the System’s capacity to meet national security obligations and provide disciplined leadership over enterprise operations statewide.

Acting under System Policy 01.03, the Board appointed Dr. L. Diane Hurtado as Vice Chancellor for Nuclear Security Initiatives and John A. Barton, P.E. as Interim Vice Chancellor for Business Affairs, each on the recommendation of Chancellor Glenn Hegar. The actions reflect the central importance of these roles to the A&M System’s mission, public responsibilities, and long-term strategic direction.

“These positions represent core responsibilities entrusted to the A&M System,” said Board Chairman Robert L. Albritton. “Our obligations in the nuclear security enterprise—and our stewardship of major public assets across Texas—require disciplined leadership at the highest level. Today’s appointments ensure we continue to meet those expectations with integrity, focus, and professionalism.”

The Vice Chancellor for Nuclear Security Initiatives oversees all System engagement with the Nuclear Security Enterprise (NSE), including fulfillment of A&M System commitments as a partner in Triad National Security, LLC, operator of Los Alamos National Laboratory, and Pantexas Deterrence, LLC, operator of the Pantex Plant. The role coordinates Systemwide research, workforce, education, and national security initiatives across the eight NNSA laboratories, plants, and sites.

The Interim Vice Chancellor for Business Affairs provides executive oversight of System enterprise operations, including Facilities Planning & Construction, the Office of Risk Management, the System Real Estate Office, the System Land Management Office, and System Training. The portfolio supports capital planning, financial stewardship, and enterprise operations across the System’s universities, agencies, and state service missions.

“These appointments reflect our commitment to national service and our responsibility to protect and strengthen the A&M System’s resources for future generations,” said Chancellor Glenn Hegar. “Dr. Hurtado and Mr. Barton bring deep experience, proven judgment, and a strong record of leadership. Their work will enhance our ability to deliver results that matter to the people of Texas.”

Appointments

Dr. L. Diane Hurtado, Vice Chancellor for Nuclear Security Initiatives
Dr. Hurtado is a three-time Texas A&M engineering graduate and one of the nation’s leading experts in nuclear security, research engagement, and national laboratory operations. She previously served as Senior Advisor to the Deputy Administrator for Defense Programs at the National Nuclear Security Administration, where she led high-explosives and energetics strategy and chaired the Defense Programs Science and Technology Council. Within the A&M System, she has held senior roles in national laboratories management, research security, federal relations, and national security initiatives. She received the NNSA Administrator’s Silver Award in 2025 and the A&M System Regents Fellow Service Award in 2019.

John A. Barton, P.E., Interim Vice Chancellor for Business Affairs
Barton brings nearly 40 years of experience across state government, higher education, and the private sector. He has directed statewide operations with annual budgets exceeding $10 billion, led national professional service lines in the private sector, overseen major public-private partnerships representing billions in infrastructure investment, and served in senior leadership roles at Texas A&M–RELLIS. A licensed Professional Engineer, Barton is widely recognized for building high-performing teams, strengthening transparency, and delivering complex projects through collaboration with state and federal partners.

Both appointments take effect immediately.