Texas A&M President Mark Welsh to Resign Amid Gender Identity Lesson Backlash

Texas A&M University President Mark A. Welsh III announced his resignation effective at 5 p.m. on Friday, following widespread criticism over his handling of a student’s complaint about gender identity content in a children’s literature class.

In a statement Thursday, the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents cited “continued turmoil” sparked by a viral video of a student confronting a professor on gender topics as the catalyst for the change. The board emphasized that the transition will position the university for “continued excellence” and initiate a nationwide search for a permanent successor.

Lesson Sparks Controversy A video shared on social media September 8 captured a student challenging instructor Melissa McCoul on the acknowledgment of multiple gender identities. State Representative Brian Harrison (R) amplified the clip, prompting calls from Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick and other GOP leaders for Welsh’s removal. McCoul and two administrators were subsequently dismissed, but critics said Welsh’s response was insufficient.

Leadership and Legacy Welsh, a retired four-star Air Force general and former member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, served as interim president from July 2023 before his permanent appointment in December 2023. Chancellor Glenn Hegar praised Welsh as “a person of integrity” whose “selfless dedication” advanced student success and research growth, while Board Chairman Robert Albritton lauded his “legacy of leadership and service”.

Political Pressure and Campus Response Governor Greg Abbott had earlier threatened to remove Welsh over diversity and inclusion initiatives, though he lacks direct firing authority. Faculty and student leaders issued letters defending Welsh’s stewardship, urging the board to retain him despite mounting political pressure.

Next Steps The Board of Regents will name an interim president in the coming days to ensure a seamless handover and begin a national search for a new leader. This step reflects heightened scrutiny on university governance amid broader debates over curriculum and academic freedom in Texas.