Texas A&M University Kingsville

KINGSVILLE (News Release) - Dr. Robert H. Vela Jr., sole finalist for the position of President of Texas A&M University-Kingsville, visited the historic campus this week, getting to know students, faculty, staff, alumni and community supporters.

 Two events were held on campus to introduce Vela to members of Javelina Nation. A Meet and Greet for faculty, staff and students was held the afternoon of Tuesday, May 3. A private reception, held later that evening, was attended by John Sharp, Chancellor of The Texas A&M University System.

 Vela, who is currently President of San Antonio College, is a Javelina alumni, having earned his bachelor’s and graduate degrees from A&M-Kingsville. He was named a Distinguished Alumni of Texas A&M University-Kingsville in 2015.

 Vela has a lengthy academic career that included leadership roles at Coastal Bend College, A&M-Kingsville, and San Jacinto College before he joined San Antonio College in 2008 as Dean of Student Affairs. He became President in 2014.

 He is also President of the National Community College Hispanic Council and served on the Board of Directors for the American Association of Community Colleges.

 Under Vela’s leadership, San Antonio College was the 2021 Aspen Prize Winner for Community College Excellence.

 On Thursday, April 28, Chancellor John Sharp recommended Vela as sole finalist and the Board approved. Under state law, regents name a finalist for at least 21 days before making the appointment at a subsequent meeting.