Hallmark serves as interim
Texas A&M University-Kingsville (TAMUK) continues its search for a university president after Dr. Mark A. Hussey announced he was stepping down in December.
In the meantime, Texas A&M University Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Dr. James Hallmark is serving as interim president until the university selects someone to fill Hussey’s now vacant position.
“[my experience has been] very good! The university faces many challenges such as COVID and enrollment, but I have found the university is also filled with passionate students, faculty and staff committed to the Javelina Nation,” Hallmark said. “It’s fun to work in an environment where there is work to be done and everyone is committed to.”
To help aid in the process for searching for the perfect candidate, a 16-member committee was compiled. Members of the committee include university members and community members who have volunteered their time to help with the search for the next president.
“The Search Advisory Committee will work closely with the search firm to identify the most qualified candidates and then forward the top candidates on for the Chancellor’s consideration,” Director of Marketing and Communications and Committee member Adrianna Garza-Flores said.
The university is looking for a president with excellent academic credentials and who will maintain the traditions and culture that make TAMUK distinctive.
The committee plans to screen candidates and decide who to interview before spring break. Between March 31 and April 1, the committee will then interview chosen candidates and lastly, will forward the top three candidates to Chancellor John Sharp, who will then forward one person to the Texas A&M University Board of Regents to fulfill the role as TAMUK’s next president.
Hussey was the 20th university president when he began his three-year term in January 2019.
“I will always be grateful for my time at Texas A&M University-Kingsville and to the faculty, staff, students and alumni for their support,” Hussey said in a press release on Dec. 14. “In leaving, I am confident that the university is well-positioned to continue its tradition of excellence and service for South Texas and beyond.”