gs. He is a colleague to some, a friend to many, Superman to his son, and is now the 20th president of Texas A&M University-Kingsville.
For many, Hussey is the embodiment of professionalism, kindness and leadership.
“He’s always been someone I’ve looked up to and respected. He has taught me so much about how to be a better man, how to balance family, school and work, no matter how challenging and stressful that can be. He’s inspired me to be the very best version of myself and I couldn’t be prouder of his accomplishments,” William A. Hussey, the president’s son said tearfully during the event. “My dad is the strongest, hardest working and humblest man that I have ever known, and I am grateful to call him my father.”
The inauguration procession began on April 25, in the Founders Room where faculty, staff, students, and Hussey walked along campus to Jones Auditorium. During the inauguration representatives for Kleberg County, the Texas House of Representatives, faculty, staff, students and even a family member honored Hussey and warmly welcomed him and his family to Javelina Nation.
Hussey was named the sole finalist for President of A&M-Kingsville in October following Dr. Steven Tallant’s retirement announcement in Spring 2018. The Board of Regents met to confirm the appointment during a November board meeting and Hussey took over his new role Jan. 2. In the few months that Hussey has lived on and graced the campus many students, faculty and staff members seem excited for this new beginning.
“I have known Dr. Hussey for years, well before I was ever employed by the Texas A&M University system and in all that time the things, I have known about him are that he is a consistent leader, he is a strategic thinker. I think he is going to be a terrific advocate of this university. I think you’ve got a great leader,” Billy Hamilton, deputy chancellor and chief financial officer of Texas A&M University System said before presenting Hussey with the presidential medallion.
Hussey received his bachelor’s degree in biology at the University of Illinois, and finished his graduate work at Texas A&M University with a Ph.D. in Plant Breeding. Hussey’s academic and administrative background includes positions as a professor, a department head, and residing as Interim President of Texas A&M University during which he became vital and showed true leadership skills. But Hussey remains humble and modest despite his impressive achievements.
“It was really emotional to hear people speak about you and talk about things you’ve accomplished over your career. When I look at it, I really don’t think I’ve accomplished very much. I’m really thinking about what we’re going to accomplish by working with faculty and administration here, and with our alumni as we think about the future,” he said. “It was really quite humbling to hear that and it was very emotional to hear my son and his remarks about his father. You never know what type of impact you leave on your children and I actually started shedding some tears up there. I had given my wife my handkerchief before I walked in and I was wishing I still had it in my pocket when some of his remarks were made. It’s a very special day for us.”
