New Commandant of the Corps of Cadets Selected at Texas A&M

News Summary

Texas A&M University is set to select a new Commandant of the Corps of Cadets as four finalists prepare for interviews. This comes after Brigadier General Patrick Michaelis steps down from his role. The candidates, each with notable military backgrounds and connections to Texas A&M, will engage with cadets and university leadership over the next few weeks, indicating a significant transitional phase for the university.

Exciting Times Ahead for Texas A&M University!

In the bustling town of College Station, Texas, there’s a lot of buzz surrounding the selection of a new Commandant of the Corps of Cadets at Texas A&M University. University leadership has handpicked four impressive finalists who are gearing up for a series of interviews on campus over the next couple of weeks. This news comes as Brigadier General Patrick Michaelis prepares to depart from his role, transitioning to a new position as a special assistant to the university’s president.

A Transition in Leadership

The transition follows General Michaelis’s announcement that he was “directed” to step down from his post earlier in September. The Corps of Cadets at Texas A&M holds a deeply rooted tradition and is an integral part of the university’s identity. As the selection process unfolds, the four finalists will bring with them a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to leadership and service.

Meet the Finalists!

As these candidates prepare to meet with cadets, Corps staff, and university executive leadership, each finalist has a unique background that adds to their qualifications.

Major General (Ret.) Gregory J. Lengyel, a proud Texas A&M alumnus from the class of 1985, is set to visit the campus on January 16-17. With roots in engineering technology and an illustrious military career that includes serving in Iraq, he also served as the Commandant of Cadets at the U.S. Air Force Academy. His return to Texas A&M adds a warm sense of nostalgia to the selection process.

Next up, we have Captain (Ret.) William H. Baxter, who graduated from Texas A&M in 1993 with a major in civil engineering. He brings more than 30 years of experience in both the military and business sectors. His impressive resume includes work with NATO and General Electric Vernova. He will be visiting campus on January 23-24.

Then there’s Major General (Ret.) John J. Nichols. He boasts a remarkable 32-year career in the U.S. Air Force, focusing on political science and holding not one, but three master’s degrees. The breadth of his knowledge and commitment to leadership will be on display during his campus visit on January 29-30.

Last but certainly not least is Lieutenant General James W. Bierman Jr., who has an astounding 37-year military career under his belt. Currently the Deputy Commandant for Plans, Policies, and Operations for the Marine Corps, he graduated from the Virginia Military Institute in 1987. He will be making his impression on the Texas A&M campus on February 2-3.

What’s Next?

Over the next two and a half weeks, the finalists will engage in a series of interviews, providing a chance for them to showcase their vision for the Corps of Cadets. During their visits, they will also meet with cadets, Corps staff, and stakeholder groups to ensure their vision aligns with the values and mission of Texas A&M.

For those unable to attend in person, recorded “campus candidate forums” will be available online following the visits, so everyone can stay in the loop and support their favorite candidate.

Support Your Candidate!

The selection of the next Commandant of the Corps of Cadets is not just an administrative change; it represents a significant step for the future of the Corps and the university. As these talented leaders prepare to leave their mark, cadets and university stakeholders are encouraged to come together as they navigate this exciting time. It’s about honoring tradition while embracing the future! Keep your eyes peeled for updates as the selection process unfolds.