Texas A&M University president Katherine Banks resigns amid hiring controversy; Here’s what happened
In a statement, the A&M System confirmed that President Katherine Banks took responsibility for the flawed hiring process of Kathleen McElroy, a former New York Times editor chosen to lead the journalism department's revival. The hiring decision faced significant pushback and garnered widespread national attention, with McElroy being portrayed as a victim of what was described as «anti-woke» hysteria and outside interference in the faculty hiring process. The controversy arose due to McElroy's previous work on race and diversity in newsrooms.
Against this backdrop, President Banks decided to resign, citing the negative publicity surrounding the hiring as a distraction for the 70,000-student campus in College Station. Her resignation comes amid a broader national context where Republican lawmakers, including those in Texas, have been taking action over diversity, equity, and inclusion programs on college campuses. In June, Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed a bill that dismantled program offices at public colleges, adding to the ongoing debate on these issues in higher education institutions across the United States.
Texas A&M University Chancellor John Sharp has appointed Dean Mark A. Welsh III as the acting President following the resignation letter submitted by Texas A&M University President M. Katherine Banks on Thursday, stating her intention to retire immediately.
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