COLLEGE STATION, Texas — After over a decade as the Texas A&M University System Chancellor, John Sharp announced Monday that he will be retiring on June 30, 2025, in one year.
In a letter on Monday, Sharp thanked past and present regents, system employees and elected officials for their years of support.
“Leading this grand enterprise has been one of the great privileges of my life,” Sharp said. “I feel a deep sense of gratitude to all of you who have shown confidence in me and contributed to our collective endeavor. Together we have lifted the Texas A&M System to historic heights.”
In his letter, Sharp noted proudly that “Texas A&M, in particular, has grown to become the school of choice, with one of the biggest enrollments in the nation” while “our culture, our traditions, and the patriotic fervor of our students remain intact. We reflect the great traditions and culture of the state of Texas.”
Prior to becoming chancellor in September 2011, he had decades of public service, beginning in 1978 when he was elected to the Texas House of Representatives. He has also been instrumental in a number of major projects for the state, including being leader of the Commission to Rebuild Texas in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey in 2017, which was an unpaid position he took up while still attending to his regular duties as system chancellor.
“Texas is grateful for Chancellor John Sharp’s unwavering commitment to improving higher education in the State of Texas,” Governor Greg Abbott said. “His extraordinary leadership throughout his time as Chancellor of the Texas A&M University System provided young Texans with the tools they need to thrive in our booming economy.”
Sharp earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Texas A&M in 1972. He was a member of the Corps staff of the Corps of Cadets, and was elected student body president.
“It’s an understatement to say we have giant boots to fill,” said Mahomes, a regent since 2015. “John Sharp is an Aggie icon – bigger than life – and we all are the beneficiaries of his bold leadership. He has made the System smarter, more innovative, and more responsive to the needs of Texans in every corner of the state.”
According to Chairman Bill Mahomes, a national search will begin in the coming months for Sharp's successor.
“While I am retiring from this job, I will find ways to continue to serve the great state I love,” Shapr said. “One thing is for certain, I will never be too busy or too old to help Texas A&M and the Texas A&M System.”
