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CANYON, Texas — West Texas A&M University announced today that President Walter V. Wendler will retire as president effective September 1, 2026, ten years to the day after he began his service as WT’s president.

“West Texas A&M University is a public trust, and it exists to serve students and the people of the Texas Panhandle and beyond,” said Chancellor Glenn Hegar. “We are grateful for President Wendler’s decade of leadership and for the progress achieved under his stewardship. WT has strengthened its academic programs, invested in its campus and deepened its role as a regional research university serving the Panhandle and the state of Texas.”

During President Wendler’s tenure, WT launched new academic programs at the associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels; advanced fundraising through the One West campaign to support faculty and student excellence; pursued cost-saving measures for students; completed major construction and campus improvements; maintained stable enrollment during a challenging period for higher education; and strengthened community relationships across the region.

“Universities earn confidence the right way, through clarity of mission, responsible stewardship and service to the public good,” President Wendler said. “I am grateful to the faculty, staff, students, alumni and community partners who make WT what it is: The Panhandle’s University. WT’s future is bright thanks to the character of its people and the strength of its purpose.”

The University will share information regarding interim leadership and next steps.