Unprecedented Level of Support Coalesces Behind Dr. Susan Ballabina as Sole Finalist for Texas A&M President

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Aerial view of Texas A&M University campus with a maroon graphic displaying the message: ‘Unprecedented Level of Support Coalesces Behind Dr. Susan Ballabina as Sole Finalist for Texas A&M President.’


BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Five of Texas A&M University’s leading affiliated organizations have publicly backed Dr. Susan Ballabina as sole finalist for president, marking an unprecedented level of support across the Aggie Network.

The joint letter is signed by the leadership of The Association of Former Students, the 12th Man Foundation, the Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association, the Texas A&M Foundation and the George & Barbara Bush Foundation.

Together, these organizations represent generations of Aggies and the full breadth of the university’s mission. They support students, fund scholarships, sustain traditions, strengthen the Corps and advance the university through philanthropy and lifelong engagement.

In their words, Dr. Ballabina is “uniquely suited to lead Texas A&M at this important moment.”

They point to what they have seen firsthand. Steady leadership. Deep institutional knowledge. A clear understanding of how to move a complex university forward while staying grounded in its purpose.

They highlight her engagement with affiliate leadership, her respect for the Aggie Network and her ability to bring people together to get results.

Their conclusion is direct. As Texas A&M approaches its 150th year, this is a moment that calls for experienced, principled and steady leadership. They are confident she is the right choice.

Texas A&M University System Chancellor Glenn Hegar said the alignment speaks for itself.

“This is not routine,” Hegar said. “This is an unprecedented level of support from the very organizations that help carry this university forward every day. They know this institution. They know what it takes to lead it. And they are speaking with one voice.”

Board of Regents Chairman Robert L. Albritton said the support reinforces the Board’s decision.

“We conducted a national search and selected the leader we believe is best prepared to guide Texas A&M into its next chapter,” Albritton said. “This kind of alignment across the Aggie Network affirms that choice.”

The letter was signed by:

  • Porter S. Garner III ’79, President and CEO, The Association of Former Students
  • Travis Dabney ’96, President and CEO, 12th Man Foundation
  • Bruce Hamilton ’78, President and CEO, Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association
  • John Huser ’89, Vice President and CFO, Interim Leader, Texas A&M Foundation
  • Alice Gonzalez Yates ’99, CEO, George & Barbara Bush Foundation

Dr. Ballabina currently serves as Executive Vice Chancellor of the Texas A&M University System. Her appointment is subject to the state’s required 21-day waiting period before final action by the Board of Regents.