Comments at Texas A&M faculty senate's next to last meeting as an independent organization

This podcast contains comments from the July 14, 2025 Texas A&M faculty senate meeting.July's meeting of the Texas A&M faculty senate was the next to last under its original composition.After more than 40 years as an independent organization, Senate Bill 37 (SB 37) takes effect September 1st, placing the faculty senate under the control of the board of regents and the university president.Click HERE to read and download a copy of Senate Bill 37, which addresses the "review of curriculum and certain degree and certificate programs, a faculty council or senate, training for members of the governing board, and the establishment, powers, and duties of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board Office of the Ombudsman."Current senate speaker Andrew Klein told members "Regardless of what happens to the senate or your choice to participate in it, I hope everyone finds ways to continue your service to Texas A&M as faculty and students in ways that you find personally and professionally."SB 37 calls for a maximum membership of 60. The current body has 122 members. Klein says "any exceptions to going over 60 will have to be based on the workload and productivity of the senate as we have exhibited over the past years." And he added "there is a recognition that as the largest university in Texas, if any institution should be allowed to have a senate larger than 60 it should be us."SB 37 requires the president appointing one member from each college or school and the rest appointed by faculty members. As for members appointed by the president, Klein said "In all honesty, conversations with the administration on this topic have been very positive. They appreciate the need for faculty input into individuals who would be good senators. And our president has continued to emphasize strong communication and collaboration as the administration continues to engage with the senate into helping develop that process."And instead of the leadership being determined by senate members, the president will name the presiding officer, associate presiding officer, and senate secretary.