Texas A&M University System regents unanimously appointed Christian Hardigree as the president of its Victoria campus during a special Friday meeting.
As previously reported, Hardigree’s record has a pattern of advancing DEI.
Her curriculum vitae contains three references to “equity,” eleven references to “diversity” and nineteen references to “sustainability.” As the regional chancellor of the University of South Florida St. Petersburg campus, she was quoted as wanting to sustain the momentum behind USFSP’s diversity, equity, and inclusion programming.
Despite this, the regents named her as the sole finalist for the presidency of Texas A&M-Victoria on September 19, triggering a 21-day waiting period before the regents could finalize her appointment. The Victoria campus was previously part of the University of Houston system and was transferred to the Texas A&M system on September 1.
“Texas A&M-Victoria is poised for tremendous growth, and Dr. Hardigree is the right leader to guide it there,” stated Robert Albritton, TAMUS board chairman. “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.”
Chancellor Glenn Hegar agreed. “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.”
Public criticism has repeatedly hit the regents recently. Former Texas A&M-College Station President Mark Welsh resigned on September 19 after a controversy over course content in a TAMU children’s literature class that included how to introduce LGBT material to children.
Regents named James Hallmark, the A&M system’s vice chancellor for academic affairs, as acting president. But Hallmark, like Welsh, has supported DEI.
Regents replaced Hallmark after his record was highlighted, naming former state lawmaker Tommy Williams interim president on October 3, and formed a search committee to find a permanent replacement. Two of the committee members have DEI backgrounds.
The Texas A&M University System and its subsidiary institutions are overseen by a Board of Regents appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Texas Senate.
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