Federal and State Policy Change Updates

Dear Faculty, Staff and Graduate Students,

The semester is moving quickly, with finals looming and so many wonderful spring activities. As we prepare for these events and keep our focus on our important work – supporting our students and advancing world-changing research – we continue to monitor the changing federal and state policy landscape. I have just a few updates for you this week. 

We are aware of recent reports regarding the potential for cuts to grants through the National Endowment of the Humanities (NEH). Of the handful of NEH grants managed by Sponsored Research Services (SRS), we have received two notices of termination for Texas A&M University grants and are working with those principal investigators. Some NEH funding is awarded directly to fellows, so we do ask that if you have an NEH grant that is not managed by SRS and have received information, please notify your dean and SRS. We will be communicating with principal investigators as we have more information.

With regard to actions from other federal agencies, we have not seen new broad guidance or significant changes to our overall impact. We remain ready to support our faculty in navigating the loss of project funding, and we are actively engaged in discussions on the Hill regarding potential impacts.

With regard to the state legislative session, President Welsh, amidst his college and school visits, had a chance to visit with state legislators again this week, sharing important information about topics that affect the university, from governance to needs related to capacity challenges. We continue to track and communicate with state officials on other legislation affecting Texas A&M, our faculty, staff and students.

I want to echo President Welsh’s words in his newsletter this week that the work you all do is important – it improves the lives of people in Texas, our nation and beyond. Thank you for remaining focused on our mission. As I think about the thousands of Aggies who will earn their Aggie rings today and tomorrow, as well as the Aggie hopefuls who will visit our main campus as part of Family Weekend with a dream of their own Aggie ring one day, I am always aware that you are the ones who make that possible. So, thank you. 

We will continue to keep you updated on the changing policy landscape and its effects on our university. You can always find the latest information on the federal policy updates webpage and researchers may access specific guidance for principal investigators. If you have questions, concerns or would like to request a visit from a leadership team member, we are available to share information and answer questions. Please reach out to my office at provost@tamu.edu. 

Thank you,

Alan
Alan Sams
Provost and Executive Vice President