Exciting Leadership Changes and Community Developments in Bryan, Texas

Exciting Leadership Changes in Bryan, Texas!

Bryan, Texas is abuzz with some exciting news as the Bryan Independent School District (ISD) continues to make strides in the educational landscape. In a recent School Board meeting on December 16, 2024, the Board of Trustees made a significant decision by promoting Michael Gibson to take over as the principal of Jane Long Intermediate School.

A New Chapter for Mr. Gibson

For those who may not know, Mr. Gibson has been a part of the Bryan ISD family for an impressive 14 years. Before being appointed principal, he held the position of Associate Principal at Davila Middle School, where he showed just how much he could connect with both students and staff through his dedication and passion for education. Mr. Gibson holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Texas A&M University and a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Lamar University. He has worn many hats during his career, having also worked as a teacher, coach, and assistant principal.

Bryan ISD Superintendent Ginger Carrabine expressed great confidence in Mr. Gibson, saying, “We are thrilled for Long Intermediate School and what’s to come.” The community is undoubtedly excited to see the positive impact he will have on the school, especially after the transition from Dr. Desiree Caperton, who recently took the reins at Bryan Collegiate High School.

Groundbreaking for a New Medical Examiner’s Office

Meanwhile, Bryan is also seeing some important local developments outside of education. On December 17, 2024, officials broke ground on the much-anticipated Brazos County Medical Examiner’s Office. This new facility, which is set to open in April of 2026, will serve a radius of 100 miles. During the ceremony, several notable speakers, including Brazos County Judge Duane Peters and District Attorney Jarvis Parsons, highlighted the importance of this project to the community.

With a price tag of $34 million, the medical examiner’s office will provide essential services to Brazos County and beyond. Former College Station Mayor Karl Mooney, who sought local office after personal tragedies, and Dean of Texas A&M’s College of Medicine Dr. Amy Waer were also present to lend their support.

Transition at Texas A&M University

In the world of higher education, Texas A&M University is preparing for a transition of its own. With the retirement of Joe Ramirez, who has been a vital part of student affairs at A&M for decades, the university is set to conduct a search for a new Vice President of Student Affairs (VPSA). This announcement was made by university President Mark Welsh, who plans to meet with a search committee chaired by Vice Provost Tim Scott, at the end of this week.

In the meantime, Tom Reber, the associate vice president, has been named the interim Vice President, a role he has held before during his remarkable 40-year career at A&M. Reber’s experience will undoubtedly help maintain stability during the search for a permanent VPSA, ensuring students continue to receive the support they need.

Crime Update in the Community

Jukorey Luna-Johnson, has recently returned to jail for the 12th time in six years. He was arrested after a traffic stop where an officer could not confirm the car’s insurance. Currently, Johnson is dealing with charges including probation violations, stemming from past incidents dating back to 2018.

As Bryan continues to grow and evolve in various aspects, from education to community safety, it’s clear that there’s never a dull moment in our vibrant city. Stay tuned to see how these developments unfold and shape the lives of those in Bryan, Texas!