Texas A&M System Chancellor John Sharp to Retire June 30, 2025

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Texas A&M University Chancellor John Sharp, the longest-serving chancellor in the history of the Texas A&M System, announced Monday that he will retire as chancellor in 12 months, effective June 30, 2025.  

“On behalf of the entire university, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Chancellor John Sharp on his well-deserved retirement,” said Dr. Kelly M. Miller, President and CEO of Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. “John Sharp has been more than just a leader; he has been an advocate and true champion for the Texas A&M University System and Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. His commitment to student success and tireless effort to advance our institution has left an indelible mark on the great state of Texas.” 

In Sharp’s time as chancellor, $219 million has been invested in Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, with an additional $78 million coming through public-private partnerships for university housing. Major construction projects have included the Momentum Sports Complex in 2011, Islander Dining Hall and the University Center Expansion in 2013, a three-phase Energy Consumption Reduction Project, the Tidal Hall Life Science Building in 2016, and the Arts and Media Building in 2024. 

“Texas is grateful for Chancellor John Sharp’s unwavering commitment to improving higher education in the State of Texas,” Governor Greg Abbott said. “His extraordinary leadership throughout his time as Chancellor of the Texas A&M University System provided young Texans with the tools they need to thrive in our booming economy.” 

Sharp, who became Chancellor in September 2011, sent a letter Monday thanking past and present regents, system employees, and elected officials for their years of support. In his letter, Sharp noted proudly that “Texas A&M, in particular, has grown to become the school of choice, with one of the biggest enrollments in the nation.”  

“Leading this grand enterprise has been one of the great privileges of my life,” Sharp said. “I feel a deep sense of gratitude to all of you who have shown confidence in me and contributed to our collective endeavor. Together we have lifted the Texas A&M System to historic heights. While I am retiring from this job, I will find ways to continue to serve the great state I love. One thing is for certain, I will never be too busy or too old to help Texas A&M and the Texas A&M System.” 

The Board of Regents will conduct a national search in the coming months for Sharp’s successor. 

“We will deeply miss the passion he brought to his work every day and we wish him and his wife, Diana, all the best in the next chapter of their lives,” Miller said. “On a personal note, I want to express my deepest gratitude to John for his unwavering support and mentorship. His guidance, wisdom, and friendship have been invaluable, and I owe him a debt of gratitude for the impact he has made on my life, both personally and professionally.”