Texas A&M University’s new president was in town Monday.
Michael Young, who received a standing ovation from the Faculty Senate, says his business card will include “Professor”.
The Harvard Law School graduate and longtime legal professor addressed the future of the newly acquired Texas A&M Law School.
Young was asked about his philosophy on innovation.
And addressing a question about shared governance between the president and the Faculty Senate, Young said he had a close relationship at the University of Washington and the University of Utah.
During the morning, the sole finalist spent the better part of one hour answering questions.
Young reviewed the recruiting process, which included two trips under the alias “Joe Don Hammerschmidt” when he was introduced to students and community groups.
Young said while he was not looking to leave the University of Washington, he was interested in learning more when approached by both Texas A&M and the University of Texas. He also brought up why he chose A&M.
Young was also asked about the discussions he and his wife Marti had before and after the trips.
Texas politics related to higher education was another subject. Young did not answer what he thought about campus concealed carrying of handguns while he talked about tuition regulation and allowing illegal immigrants to pay in-state tuition.
When asked about athletics, Young brought up the academic side of student-athletes. Young said he meets with his athletic directors to discuss grade point averages (GPA) and brought up what has been accomplished at the University of Washington.
Young was asked about his vision for Texas A&M, his message to students, and the importance of an affordable college education.
The Young’s are in the process of buying a house off-campus, as they plan to retire here.
System chancellor John Sharp says it was his decision to make the on-campus president’s home available to fundraisers and other functions.
