Texas A&M University President Mark A. Welsh III resigned Friday after weeks of mounting controversy involving a professor’s gender-related lesson, leaked audio recordings, and demands from state leaders.

Student Confrontation Sparks Outrage

A July classroom clash between a conservative student and Professor Melissa McCoul ignited the chain of events. McCoul was accused of “promoting gender ideology” and told the student she could leave if uncomfortable. As The Dallas Express reported, Welsh later removed a dean and department head from their administrative roles following the uproar.

State Rep. Brian Harrison (R-Midlothian) amplified the issue, releasing audio of a private call in which Welsh defended LGBTQ coursework, denied multiple complaints had been filed, and told the student, “Do what you’re going to do … I do not care.” Harrison labeled Welsh a “liar” and demanded his firing.

Abbott and State Officials Weigh In

Gov. Greg Abbott called for McCoul’s removal after Harrison’s posts circulated, and Texas A&M subsequently fired the professor for deviating from published course content. In the same announcement, Welsh directed the removal of the English Department head and the College of Arts & Sciences dean.

U.S. Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet K. Dhillon also described the situation as “deeply concerning,” saying her office would review it.

Pattern of Controversy

Welsh’s resignation comes after months of scrutiny over Texas A&M’s academic direction. The Dallas Express previously reported that the university has continued to offer gender and LGBTQ-related majors and minors despite political pressure to scale back such programs

Additionally, the outlet revealed that Texas A&M withheld details about a new civics initiative known as “Aggie Lyceum,” raising concerns about transparency and leadership appointments tied to diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.

Resignation and Next Steps

In a statement, Chancellor Glenn Hegar praised Welsh’s “selfless dedication” but said it was the “right moment to make a change.” Board of Regents Chairman Robert Albritton echoed the sentiment, pledging a national search for a new leader.

Welsh, a retired Air Force general appointed as the 27th president in 2023, departs after a short but tumultuous tenure marked by clashes over gender ideology and campus governance.