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BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION, Texas — The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents today voted to approve Christian E. Hardigree, J.D., as the next president of Texas A&M University–Victoria.

Hardigree’s appointment follows a unanimous vote naming her the sole finalist for the position on September 18. With the 21-day waiting period now complete, she officially becomes the university’s top leader as A&M–Victoria embarks on a new era of growth and service to South Texas.

“Texas A&M–Victoria is poised for tremendous growth, and Dr. Hardigree is the right leader to guide it there,” said Robert L. Albritton, Chairman of the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents. “Her passion for students and her track record of building programs that serve local needs will ensure the university continues to be a source of pride — and opportunity — for the Coastal Bend and beyond.”

Hardigree comes to Victoria from the University of South Florida, where she served as Regional Chancellor of the St. Petersburg campus and as a member of the OneUSF executive team, overseeing academic programs, operations, and a $130 million capital portfolio. Under her leadership, USF St. Petersburg increased enrollment by 26 percent, secured $59 million dollars in support for students and faculty, and forged new partnerships with the U.S. Navy and local employers.

A seasoned higher-education leader and attorney, Hardigree previously served as the founding dean of the School of Hospitality at Metropolitan State University of Denver and as the founding director of the Michael A. Leven School of Culinary Sustainability & Hospitality at Kennesaw State University. She holds a Juris Doctor from Mercer University and a B.S. in Hotel Administration (cum laude) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and is a Fulbright Scholar (2024).

“Dr. Hardigree has led complex organizations, raised resources, and translated strategy into results,” said Glenn Hegar, Chancellor of the Texas A&M University System. “She understands how to build strong partnerships with local employers and educators, and she shares our commitment to delivering high-value degrees that open doors for Texas families. With her experience and vision, A&M–Victoria will become an even stronger engine of opportunity for South Texas.”

Hardigree said she is honored to join the A&M System and lead the university into its next chapter.

“It is an incredible privilege to be chosen as president of Texas A&M University–Victoria,” Hardigree said. “This is a pivotal moment for the university, and I am inspired by its mission to advance academic excellence, foster student success, and serve as a catalyst for opportunity and economic growth across South Texas. I look forward to working with our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community partners to elevate the university’s visibility, strengthen its impact, and build a vibrant future together.”

Texas A&M–Victoria joined the A&M System on September 1, 2025, becoming the System’s 12th regional university. Founded in 1973, the institution serves more than 3,000 students and is a critical hub for education, workforce development, and regional engagement in the Coastal Bend and Crossroads regions.