Colleagues,
It is with mixed emotions that I share that Deputy Vice Chancellor Susan Ballabina has accepted a role within the Texas A&M University Office of the President to serve as Vice President for Academic and Strategic Partnerships, effective September 1.
Susan was my first hire in the initial days of my new role with Texas A&M AgriLife. A 27-year veteran within this organization, Susan is widely known and deeply respected throughout the university and System. She has been a tireless advocate for AgriLife and agriculture across the state of Texas and force for positivity—always seeking solutions to create a stronger, more vibrant organization. She is also a wonderful friend to many.
Susan began her career with AgriLife Extension as a county agent in 1994 and went on to serve the agency as regional program director, associate director for program development, and ultimately, executive associate director, prior to her appointment to deputy vice chancellor for AgriLife. Susan has played a critical role in advancing joint initiatives with the System, including programs like Healthy Texas and the Governor’s Commission to Rebuild Texas. Over the last year, she has been instrumental in spearheading initiatives for improved organizational effectiveness within AgriLife and creating equitable access to shared services, including the centralization of professional service units. Her enthusiasm and dedication to the organization is unmatched. It has truly been an honor to work with Susan and while she will be missed dearly, I am confident that this is a wonderful opportunity for her and for Texas A&M AgriLife, as she will continue to advocate for agriculture and life sciences in her university role.
We are fully aware of the void Susan’s departure brings and have worked diligently to establish a new administrative structure in the Vice Chancellor’s office. We are putting the finishing touches on the plan and the new team members will be announced early next week with September 1 start dates.
Thank you,
Patrick J. Stover, Ph.D.
Vice Chancellor, Texas A&M AgriLife
Dean, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
Director, Texas A&M AgriLife Research