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ANCHORED GALVESTON

APRIL 9, 2026

A message from The Colonel

Col. Michael Fossum ’80

COO, TAMUG | Vice President, TAMU | Superintendent, Texas A&M Maritime Academy

Dear members of the Texas A&M University at Galveston Board of Visitors,

Howdy! It has been busy as always since our Board of Visitors meeting last fall, as we race through the 2025-26 academic year!

You will find more details in the following pages, but I want to highlight a few major events. We are moving into the new Engineering Classroom and Research Building (ECRB) and plan to start classes there next fall after the extensive laboratories are outfitted. This will be an incredibly impactful capability to elevate our growing engineering programs.

Last year, our exceptional faculty achieved a record $20 million in research expenditures, which is unmatched for a campus of our size in Texas and the surrounding region. Our reputation as a research powerhouse continues to grow. Our new training ship, the TS Lone Star State, is nearing completion at the Philadelphia Shipyard, under the watchful eye of members of our ship crew present full-time to oversee the process. We anticipate its delivery to our campus in August. Additionally, we are finalizing plans for this summer’s training in collaboration with Maine Maritime, which will be a reciprocal arrangement compared to what we did with them last summer.

We are excited to report that recruitment numbers for Fall 2026 are looking strong, with increases across all programs, including the maritime academy. However, we anticipate some stress points in the coming years ahead as our incoming cadet classes reach higherlevel courses. This is especially true for those requiring the section sizes to be exceedingly small in the simulators – so we are actively planning short and long-term solutions.

It is hard to believe, but we are already in the midst of planning for the upcoming Legislative Session in spring 2027. Our top priority is to secure the continued funding from last session to help cover ship and academy operation expenses, which will help us reduce costs for cadets.

This funding has positively impacted our recruitment efforts, and it is imperative that we maintain it. Additionally, we will be requesting one-time funding to expand our related training facilities. We have been advised that this session will be lean, with limited discretionary funding available, so we will need to work diligently to achieve our goals!

Once again, thank you for everything you do to support me and our campus, students, faculty, staff, and programs! I look forward to seeing everyone back on campus for spirited discussions and celebrations of our joint successes!

Thanks & Gig ‘em!

A message from

The Chairman

Jonathan Whitworth ’89 Chairman Board of Visitors

Howdy Fellow Board of Visitors Members,

Hard to believe the 2025-2026 school year is rapidly coming to a close. Spring Break has sprung and finals and graduation will be here before we know it. As usual, things are incredibly busy on campus thanks in part to the higher number of students and a lot of activity both on campus and off (the T/S Lone Star State is getting closer to finishing!).

Speaking of our training ship and the Maritime Academy, the state of the Jones Act and US shipping is in a very weird spot. On one hand, the administration in DC released the Maritime Action Plan (MAP) in February, which is the most serious push to rebuild U.S. maritime capacity in decades. It’s intended to rebuild the U.S. shipbuilding capacity, increase the number of U.S. Flag vessels, and increase the number of U.S. merchant mariners… yes, about time! But, this is a DC based concept, and as we’ve seen in the past, it’s very easy to make speeches but quite difficult to rebuild an industry which peaked 75 years ago. But similar to the SHIPS Act which was announced last year, the fact people in DC are talking about ships is a very, very good thing.

Then on the other hand, the same administration which endorsed both the SHIPS Act and MAP last week announced a 60-day waiver of the Jones Act for all products moving between U.S. ports. As you all likely know, the Jones Act fleet has already dropped from 193 qualifying ocean-going vessels to 92. A waiver doesn’t fix the energy problem; it

just hands the work to foreign operators while U.S. mariners sit on the sidelines.

From an Academy standpoint and through the eyes of our cadets who are hoping to join the wonderful world of marine transportation, you can clearly understand the level of uncertainty and anxiety all of this is creating. I’m hoping there will be more clarity on these topics in the coming months, but in the meantime, we are incredibly fortunate to be hearing from Dr. Jean-Paul Rodrigue (Professor in the Dept. of Maritime Business Administration) during our next BOV meeting to discuss the Iran War and it’s impact on global & U.S. shipping markets.

I look forward to seeing you either in person or via Zoom at the meeting.

Thanks

again for all your help and support, it’s very much appreciated!

AGENDA

Board of Visitors Agenda

8:00 AM Networking with Continental Breakfast

8:30 AM Call to Order - Jonathan Whitworth

8:45 AM Campus Briefing by Col. Fossum

9:15 AM Guest Speaker Dr. Jean-Paul Rodgrigue, Professor in the Department of Maritime Business Administration - The Iran War and the Effects on Global Shipping”

10:00 AM Break

10:15 AM Committee Updates from Amy Hark

10:30 AM Texas A&M Foundation Presentation from Jason Tieman

10:45 AM Aggie Ring Day on Campus at ASEC

11:15 AM Fed & State Govt. Relations Update from Mike Hardy & Julie Kopycinski

11:45 AM Lilly Chabot, Student Body President

12:00 PM Board of Visitors In-camera Session

12:30 PM Adjourn and optional Lunch

BOARD OF VISITORS MEMBERS

Deana Atteberry ’11 Sea Aggie Former Student Network

Greg Binion Auxo Marine

John Binion ’94 Tiberinus Holdings, LLC

Michael Cokinos ’77 Cokinos Energy Corporation

Jennifer Doerr ’95 Noaa

Thomas Farmer ’71 Farmer’s Alloy Fabricating (Retired)

Gen. William Fraser, III ’74 WM Fraser Enterprises, LLC (Retired)

Robert Fry Marinus Interests

Roger Guenther ’83 Port of Houston Authority (Retired)

Leonard Hale ’81 Gulf Copper

John Hallmark ’97 Kirby Corporation

Amy Hark ’95 Huntsman Corporation

Peter D. Huddleston, P.E. ’80 Huddleston & Co., Inc.

Charlie Jenkins ’89 Port of Houston Authority

Chris Johnson ’06 Johnson & Associates Attorneys at Law, PLLC

Mark Keller ’74

Edison Chouest Offshore Companies

Dale Laine ’78

Laine Strategy Group

Joshua LaVire ’00 American Bureau of Shipping

Mark Lyons

McDaniel Charitable Foundation

Keith McFatridge, Jr. McFatridge & Associates, P.C.

John Michael ’98 Vinson & Elkins, LLP

Phyllis Milstein Retired

B. Greg Mitchell Scripps Institute of Oceanography at UC San Diego

Frank M. Muller, Jr. ’65

Toby Enterprises

Chaz Neely ’62 Retired

Brandon H. Neff ’99 HFN Enterprises

George O’Kelley ’90

Flex

Chris Orth ’80

Florida Marine Transport

Victor R. Pierson

Moody National Bank

Wayne H. Prescott ’69

Law Offices of Wayne H. Prescott

Laura Protz PW Technologies

Terry Ray ’79 Retired

Brian Roy Jr. ’82 Houston Wire & Cable

Robert Sakowitz Hazak Corporation

Todd Sullivan ’97

Texas International Terminals

Kelly Teichman ’91 T & T Marine Salvage, Inc.

Sidney Theis ’74 RDR Tec.

Paul Thomas STK Bridge

Andy Tirpak ’81

Texas Parks and Wildlife (Retired)

Mark Waller Proceanic, LTD.

Jonathan Whitworth ’89 Seaspan (Retired)

COMMITTEES

EXECUTIVE ADVISORY

Jonathan Whitworth

Committees

Chairman, Board of Visitors

Michael E. Cokinos

Thomas Farmer

Robert Fry

Roger D. Guenther

Pete D. Huddleston

INDUSTRY RELATIONS

Brandon Neff

Chair, Board of Visitors

Tom Farmer

Roger Guenther

Leonard Hale

John Hallmark

Amy Hark

Amy Hark Vice Chair, Board of Visitors

Keith McFatridge

Phyllis Milstein

Frank M. Muller

Chris Orth

Victor R. Pierson

Wayne H. Prescott

Todd Sullivan

Kelly Teichman

Ken Bailey Co-Chair, Texas A&M at Galveston

John Michael

L.C. ‘Chaz’ Neely

George O’Kelley

Vic Pierson

Brian Roy

STUDENT AFFAIRS

Jonathan Whitworth

Chairman, Board of Visitors

Greg Binion

Michael Cokinos

Will Fraser

Bob Fry

Pete Huddleston

Charlie Jenkins

Todd Sutherland Co-Chair, Texas A&M at Galveston

Chris Johnson

Dale Laine

Mark Lyons

Keith McFatridge

Greg Mitchell

Robert Sakowitz

Todd Sullivan

Kelly Teichman

Andy Tirpak

Phyllis Milstein

Frank Muller

Chris Orth

Wayne Prescott

Laura Protz

BOARD OF VISITORS MEETING

Meeting

Minutes October 16, 2025

LOCATION

The Waterfront Pavilion, Texas A&M University at Galveston

MEMBERS PRESENT (IN-PERSON)

Deana Atteberry, William Fraser, III, Roger Guenther, Leonard Hale, Amy Hark, Peter Huddleston, Chris Johnson, Dale Laine, Brandon Neff, George O’Kelley, Chris Orth, Wayne Prescott, Laura Protz, Brian Roy Jr., Robert Sakowitz, Todd Sullivan, Sidney Theis, Andy Tirpak, Mark Waller, Jonathan Whitworth

MEMBERS PRESENT (ONLINE)

Greg Binion, Mark Keller, Keith McFatridge, Jr., John Michael, Greg Mitchell, Frank Muller, Jr.

MEMBERS ABSENT

John Binion, Michael Cokinos, Tom Farmer, Robert Fry, John Hallmark, Charlie Jenkins, Mark Lyons, Phyllis Milstein, Chaz Neely, Victor Pierson, Terry Ray, Kelly Teichman

TAMUG AND TAMU FOUNDATION ATTENDEES

Ken Bailey, Anna Hyatt, John Kovacevich, Donna Lang ’88, Susan Lee (online), Annette Forst, Michael E. Fossum ’80, Michael Hardy, Grant Shallenberger, Toni Mooney Smith, Todd Sutherland, Pete van Hengstum, Sharon Kitchen (faculty speaker), Caiden Hauser (student speaker)

BOARD OF VISITORS MEETING

Meeting Minutes October 16, 2025

CALL TO ORDER

Mr. Jonathan Whitworth, Chairman

Mr. Whitworth called the meeting to order at 8:34 a.m. and welcomed the BOV members and other attendees.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Pete Huddleston motioned to accept the minutes of the April 8, 2025, meeting as presented; Amy Hark seconded the motion; all approved.

WELCOME AND OVERVIEW

Mr. Jonathan Whitworth, Chairman

• Toni Mooney Smith, Director of Marketing and Communications, was welcomed to campus. Members were reminded that the briefing book is available online for those who were attending virtually and did not receive the print copy. Mr. Whitworth provided an overview of the exciting changes to campus with additional buildings and infrastructure since the 1990’s.

• During summer of 2025, the decision was made to change the format of the BOV meetings. Current BOV committees include the Industrial Relations and Student Affairs committees which will meet outside of the general meeting during the spring and fall and provide reports back to the BOV during the general meeting. The advantage of the committees meeting at other times is that it connects the BOV members to campus throughout the year. The Development and Fund-raising Committee is no longer active as a committee.

• Mr. Whitworth discussed the importance of the Weekly Currents provided by Dr. Debbie Thomas’ office; anyone not receiving those was asked to let him know, and we will get their email added to the distribution.

• Mr. Whitworth expressed appreciation to those who were able to attend the BOV dinner on Wednesday evening.

• Updates/revisions to the October 16th BOV agenda were discussed.

WELCOME AND CAMPUS BRIEFING

Col. Michael E. Fossum welcomed attendees and shared a campus update:

• Significant changes have occurred since the April 8, 2025 meeting when the campus was in the middle of the Legislative session. He reminded everyone of the 2021 success in getting the funding to begin the shoreside infrastructure started in support of the new ship with the support of Repr. Col. Terry Wilson (a proud Aggie who was Chairman of the house appropriations subcommittee) who was key to getting this request pushed through.

• A clear message was received from industry during the spring career fair that more mariners are needed. We were the most expensive program in the country at a cost of about 9 million a year with all associated costs and receive only about 2 million a year in support. A forensic analysis of the TAMMA costs was done comparing our costs to that of other maritime academies who we found were receiving support via earmarks and subsidies allowing them to

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Meeting Minutes October 16, 2025

produce programs at a lower cost to their cadets. Having this data allowed us to make a clear case for the ask during the legislative session in spring 2025. We received support through a letter campaign by the BOV, Agricultural groups, Haliburton, leaders in the Maritime Industry, and so many others. There were over 80 endorsers. We received 16 million for the biennium, making us one of the biggest awards in the A&M System. With the ship delivery day having moved, we are still responsible for showing how we are going to spend the money proving we are using it responsibly.

• The groundbreaking event on October 15th was unprecedented with the attendance of three members of the Board of Regents (Brooks, Billinger, Georgiates), Chancellor Hegar, Interim President Tommy Williams, Chairman Greg Bonnen, and Repr. Teri Leo Wilson.

• Discussed the significant increase in the Maritime Academy enrollment, the reduced tuition and fees are now midrange price as compared to the other Maritime Academies. We have reached our limit on how many deck students we can bring in in January. We have reached a stressed point whereby we have to grow each year to handle these class loads, more faculty, more space, etc. On the engine side, it is remarkably hard to get students into this program, and we must make changes to get them into the program. Pass through $1000 scholarships have been given out the last two summers to help keep costs of the summer sea term down. This year we were able to give out $2500 scholarships to incoming cadets resulting in an increase of 145 engineering students. Much of this came from Mitchell Society funds. Engineers at $120-130k are paid more than deck graduates. In some industries, engineers can make over $200k in their first year. Chief Engineers are making more than ship captains. The demand signal is loud and clear. We must grow the engine side. Our goal is to reduce the cost of summer sea term by $3500. A new law stating that any student in uniform will receive in-state tuition will be implemented in January 2026 will help us be more competitive.

• Plans to demolish the Chouest Building as work commences on The Lone Star State Pier were discussed; the Sea Aggie Bldg. will not be removed. The new pier will not be completed before the ship arrives in 2026.

• Work and discussions are ongoing with the Pelican Island Bridge. TAMUG has signed their part for $9.2 million for our part of the contract after 19 revisions. Discussions about a land bridge have popped up again.

• The new Engineering Bldg. is underway. It will be impressive and functional, allowing us to grow the Engineering Program with new labs and spaces. Faculty will move in around January. It will likely be fall 2026 before it is fully in use.

• Significant water intrusions were exposed last year in the Texas Maritime Academy Hall envelope. The building is now dried out, and polymer repairs were made to stop the intrusion of water. A contract with a company to complete permanent repairs is in place. Half of the occupants from each wing will be emptied one floor at a time to remove the outside layer and replace it with a new surface. At that point, the students in another section will move into the newly renovated section while repairs commence in the next section. Work begins next spring – weather permitting. This is a 45-million-dollar renovation to a building that is only about 10 years old. TAMU and the system have provided funds for the repairs. TAMUG could not have survived covering this expense.

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Meeting Minutes October 16, 2025

• Polaris and Albatross purchased by the university have required quite a few repairs including HVAC updates.

Wayne Prescott expressed his gratitude for the glowing report and all the positive things happening.

Whitworth discussed the turn-around from the focus of meetings two years ago with low enrollments and lack of students. Now we are talking about not having room for all the students. The work of all members of the team bringing about this change was acknowledged. Whitworth announced that RADM Jim Watson, from ABS who moved up north, was replaced by Vice Admiral Paul Thomas (unable to be present today) to replace those connections to the US Coast Guard.

Texas A&M Foundation

Jason Tieman provided a Texas A&M Foundation update. (see attached presentation) There is not a better time to be at this campus with the confidence that has been built in our constituents and is resulting in additional giving this past year. He thanked the BOV for their role in supporting this campus. He reiterated that the Foundation focuses on major giving. A $25k gift produces about $1k a year. It takes millions to produce $40k a year. Gifts received no longer incur any expenses. Tieman discussed the time that he and Anna Hyatt spend with the donors to understand what they want to happen with their gift. This year their goal was to bring in five million, but they succeeded in bringing in nine million.

• Needs on campus are never end but don’t always match the passion of the donor:

• Marine Engineering – updating classrooms and equipment.

• Mariner Park – common outdoor space for all students to be used for gatherings, celebration, watch parties. etc. As funds are raised, they try to build a fund to produce proceeds to maintain these facilities as well.

• Crabbing Bridge

• Marine Eng. Scholarships

• Immersive Learning Experience

• Office of Outreach & Community Engagement (3 years of funding received; Christi Voelkel hired into this position)

• Cadet Swords

• Upcoming dates to get involved

• Oct. 18 – Sea Aggie Former Student network Reunion

• Nov. 5 - Endowed Scholarship Dinner

• Dec. 4 - Workboat Show Reception

• A planned gift is the easiest way to give.

• TAMUG is receiving a great deal of visibility through The Spirit Magazine.

Annette Forst expressed appreciation to the members of the small and mighty Galveston Development team (Jason, Anna, and Emily) and the donors in the room. Mike Fossum shared thank you cards written by students who have received

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Meeting Minutes October 16, 2025

scholarships as a result of gifts received. The work to make sure the gifts are recognized just started about 10 years ago and has been impactful.

Committee Reports

Industry Relations Update

Brandon Neff discussed the development of a Maritime Academy Advancement and Advocacy Council (M3A Council) developed to support Col Fossum in his role as superintendent, help inform strategic direction for the Maritime Academy, be a body of public advocates who know partners / stakeholders / companies and can engage on behalf of the Texas A&M Maritime Academy and assist with Marketing and Communications efforts. The finished document, charter (see attachment handed out at meeting) coming out of the Industry Relations Committee, was approved last week by Col Fossum after work by Allan Post, Wade Howell, Ken Bailey, and Todd Sutherland. The next step is to have the right people on that entity; a call has gone out. Brandon will schedule a virtual meeting on Nov. 5th or 7th to discuss names nominated to serve at that time. Though a call has previously gone out, everyone was encouraged to be a part of the meeting to discuss additional nominees. The Industrial Relations Committee will review the names that have been brought forward and make decisions about the final number of individuals to be a part of this. The next step will be outreach.

Student Affairs Update

Jonathan Whitworth provided an update from the Student Affairs Committee (see handout) The handout is a chart summarizing data from the last 3 commencements and the number of graduates who walked but did not have an Aggie Ring. Because BOV member, Chris Orth, was at a graduation and noticed graduates without a ring, he began a discussion about ensuring all students graduating can obtain an aggie ring. According to the data, approximately 1/3 of the students do not have a ring. Whitworth reminded everyone that the ring is more than a piece of gold. On average, a ring costs $2400. It would take about a ¼ of a million dollars to fill this need at the current number of graduates. The committee is looking at utilizing the existing student financial need vetting process to decide who should be on the list of students to receive a ring. Discussion continued about students who may not want a ring, students who may qualify but won’t apply anyway, etc. No one really wants to own this project. A huge endowment would be needed to cover this cost each year.

Federal and Governmental Relations Update

Mr. Michael D. Hardy

• Mike Hardy provided an update on Federal and State Government Relations and a Legislative update. Received $16 million in support for the Maritime Academy. He shared a shout out to Julie Kopyinski for her hard work. On the federal side, it has been a wild 9 months in Washington with the transition between Biden and Trump administration. Mike H. highlighted the following points:

• The speed at which some of the changes are happening is somewhat different.

• The research side of funding has been a challenge and requires that they realign priorities.

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Meeting Minutes October 16, 2025

• From the standpoint of appropriations, approx. 90-91 million set aside for SMAS (145 million from the White House),

• The state of Louisiana has a tremendous amount of influence (particularly on the House side) and there is 1 million set aside for the potential LA Maritime Academy.

• The Mariner Modernization Act passed.

• We are on day 16 of a government shutdown. It is expected to run another couple of weeks – at least through early November. Others believe it will run through Thanksgiving. Texas A&M has approximately 12 million in research expenditures every month that can be floated for a short time. If the shut-down runs into January, student loans will not be dispersed and that will create a problem.

• The job of Governmental Relations is to be pro-active, not just serve a defensive role.

• Discussion of AI and development of AI Institutes. Though there were a number of AI Institutes begun, there was not one on National Security. A&M has requested approval (language authorizing) and funding through NSF to address this issue. There will be obvious places for Galveston to support this and be involved as it relates to Maritime AI issues. A&M is looking for opportunities to be involved and support the administration’s priorities.

• Whitworth inquired about the 90 million budget which is less than previously allotted to the SMAs. When everything settles with the budget, Mike Hardy believes that the SMAs will see the additional budget money aligned into the new ship support which will require a larger budget.

Dr. Pete van Hengstum shared research highlights and comparisons to regional schools. Our 2024 research expenditures are reported at 5 million and we are ranked at number 17 out of 35 institutions, many who have more students and faculty, yet we are outpacing them in research dollars. We are ranked 35 out of 36 in UG enrollments.

• In comparison, we have 54 researchers compared to Tarleton at #16 with 284 researchers and 14,000 students to our 2,000 students. Tarleton also generated 5 million.

• Compared to Sam Houston State University, ranked #15, has 21,000 UG students and 568 researchers, generated 5.5 million in research dollars. We have 1 researcher to every 10 at Sam Houston.

Faculty Speaker

Dr. Sheila Kitchen

Dr. Kitchen discussed her research in the Texas Flower Gardens National Bank and in her Research Lab focused on Coral (presentation attached). Her discussion highlighted the important economic impact of jellyfish, sea anemone, and coral reefs on the environment, supporting 25% of the biodiversity in our oceans, our food supply and the entertainment industry (beaches, snorkeling/diving). It is very important to the health of our ecosystem which supports and protects

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Meeting Minutes October 16, 2025

our beaches and fishing. The problem is that Coral is becoming unhealthy and dying as a result of more and more events impacting the coral. Her research is working to study the DNA of coral, which are the most resilient, understand their physiology, how they interact with other organisms and how to restore the coral reefs. This is a global problem where she believes that they have the opportunity to make an impact.

Student Speaker: Texas A&M Corps of Cadets

Caiden Heausler ’25, Corps Commander

Caiden Heausler, part of squadron Charlie II, provided a brief synopsis of the Texas A&M Maritime Academy with highlights of the following:

• His biggest goal is supporting the high expectations for exponential/compound growth in the academy.

• The Corps commanders are moving from records from to Teams from Google Drive so that records better transition to the new leadership each year.

• Ensuring that TAMMA is not just main campus’ ‘little brother.’ The Corps completes march-in during 2 games each football season. This year the Corps received a perfect score!

• His goal is to hold Corp members accountable and encourage members to become more physically fit for industry jobs but also ensure that members understand why fitness is important. There has been a positive shift in attitudes. Demerits issued have gone down 20% which he attributes to people being willing to do what is needed because they understand why it is important.

In response to a question from the audience, Caiden closed by sharing his experience of having the amazing experience of having the T/S Kennedy at TAMUG as well as the experience of sailing with all the cadets from Maine in summer 2025. Caiden was particularly enthusiastic about the experience of navigation by the stars. He discussed the expected lessons to be learned in 2026 sailing with another Maritime Academy and having the experience to do things ‘their way,’ learning to mitigate conflicts, etc.

Mike Fossum announced that Kathey Walker has returned temporarily part-time to fill in for Amber Booth who has taken another position on campus.

Closed Session

Everyone other than members of the BOV were asked to step out during the closed camera session.

Meeting Adjourned

The Board of Visitors meeting adjourned and members and guests transitioned to lunch.

TEXAS

SUMMER SEA TERM 2026

In accordance with our two-year Sea Term agreement with Maine Maritime Academy our cadets will join Maine on the brand new TS State of Maine for its inaugural voyage. We look forward to collaborating with our partners and friends from Maine again this Summer.

— Capt. Allan F. Post ’16 MS AVP and Deputy Superintendent

MAY 18

Texas A&M Maritime Academy Cadet check-in aboard the TS State of Maine (Galveston,TX)

MAY 23 Depart Galveston, TX

JUNE 4 Arrive at Charleston, SC

JUNE 7 Depart Charleston, SC

JUNE 13 Arrive at St. John’s Newfoundland, Canada

JUNE 16 Depart at St. John’s Newfoundland, Canada

JUNE 23 Arrive at Port Everglades, FL

JUNE 26 Depart Port Everglades, FL

JULY 3 Arrive at New York City, NY for the 250th Anniversary of the United States Naval Review - No Port Call

JULY 4 Depart New York City, NY

JULY 6 Arrive at Boston, MA

JULY 8 Departs at Boston, MA

JULY 12 Arrive Castine, ME - Maine Maritime Academy

JULY 16

SST 2026 ends all TAMMA Cadets will fly via charter flights to Houston Hobby Airport (FBO Wilson Air)

TS LONE STAR UPDATE

Construction on the new TS Lone Star State has entered the finishing and systems activation and testing phase of construction.

Most of the interior joinerwork is complete and finishes and furniture are being installed. Our crew has been in the shipyard and in training preparing for delivery.

LONE STAR STATE PIER CONSTRUCTION UPDATE

Construction of the new pier has ramped up this spring with the installation of utilities through the Sea Aggie Center parking lot and the arrival of cranes and sheet pile to begin installing the new bulkhead that will support the back half of the pier.

Estimated completion of the pier is Summer of 2027. The TS Lone Star State will temporarily moor at the Clipper Pier until the completion of the new one.

FINANCE, BUDGETS & COMPLIANCE

CELEBRATED SUCCESSES

— Susan Hernandez Lee, MBA AVP for Finance and Compliance Officer

Business Centralization/Compliance Efficiencies

New Travel/Purchase Card System

Employees now only use one card for both travel and business expenses.

All TAMUG-owned vehicles logged in State Vehicle System

All are equipped with fire extinguishers and the information needed for logging in mileage, fuel usage, maintenance, and repairs.

Quarterly Inspections by Compliance Office

Ensures well–maintained and properly accounted for usage per State Requirements.

Closed Three Compliance Reviews

Assures university leadership that good financial controls are in place.

Development Update

Final report from this year’s Mardis Gras Gala is not complete, but estimates indicate increased or additional endowed scholarship(s) will be funded. To date, four $75K endowed scholarships have been funded.

FY2027 Budget Preparation

and Presentation Before the BOR Finance Committee is slated for April 28

• Earlier budget deadlines due to the absence of a legislative session this year.

• Revenue estimates indicate an uptick in Tuition & Fee Revenue and appropriations for benefits.

• Launch of the Galveston Strategic Budget Council to review, prioritize, and recommend unit funding requests to the COO.

• Limited recurring revenue, with some one-time reserves available.

• FY2026 Budget totaled $105.4M, and FY2027 is estimated to total $106.8M.

90th Legislative Session preparation has started

Requests and detailed justifications are being drafted.

Reserve Balances

Reserve Balances at the end of FY2025 were about 5.3 months, down from FY2024 reserves of 7 months due to Hurricane Beryl Financial Impacts:

• $6M for Emergency response and $35M for permanent repairs for TAMMA Hall.

• To date, very little FEMA relief has been approved except for dredging and some small projects.

RESERVE BALANCES

New Asset Tracking System Implementation

• New Virtual Asset Tracker utilizing RFID/GPS technology to track university capital assets.

• Reduces manual labor.

• Improves accuracy of inventory.

• Reduces lost or missing items.

$6M $35M EMERGENCY RESPONSE TAMMA HALL REPAIRS

ANCHORED GOOD FOR

ANCHORED IN GALVESTON.

IMPACTING THE WORLD.

Together, We Stand As a Force for Good.

The commercial underscores Texas A&M-Galveston’s role as the university’s marine and maritime campus, where students, faculty and researchers work daily to protect marine environments, advance maritime readiness, and support coastal communities.

Through bold imagery and storytelling, the piece demonstrates how the campus remains anchored in Galveston while contributing solutions that reach across Texas, the nation and the world.

“Anchored for Good reflects who we are,”

said Col. Michael E. Fossum ’80, vice president of Texas A&M, Chief Operating Officer of the Galveston Campus, and Superintendent of the Texas A&M Maritime Academy.

As part of the universitywide Together, We Stand As a Force for Good campaign the commercial underscores the unified mission across Texas A&M University: to educate, lead, and innovate in ways that make meaningful and lasting contributions to society. Texas A&M at Galveston’s new commercial expands this message by elevating the unique strengths of the Galveston campus—showing the Aggie Spirit at work on the water, in the lab, and throughout the coastal community.

“Developing this commercial was a true team effort. Our goal was to capture the spirit of this campus—the dedication, curiosity, and deep sense of service that drive everything we do,”

said Toni Mooney Smith, director of marketing and communications at Texas A&M-Galveston.

“Anchored for Good reflects the passion, expertise, and purpose that define our campus, and it highlights the real impact Aggies in Galveston are making every day. I am incredibly proud of the story we were able to tell.”

— Toni Mooney Smith, MSC Director, Marketing and Communications

by the AggiesSea! How ’Bout Them AggiesSea!

TEXAS A&M FOUNDATION

TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY at GALVESTON 70% 31% $12.6M 372 100% $696K

Increase in FRESHMEN APPLICATIONS in the College of Marine Sciences and Maritime Studies and direct admit Engineering majors.

Increase in completed TRANSFER APPLICATIONS.

Awarded in scholarships to Texas A&M at Galveston students over the past 11 YEARS.

DONOR-SUPPORTED SCHOLARSHIPS awarded from Summer 2025 through Spring 2026.

Awarded to students through ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIPS from Summer 2025 through Spring 2026.

Marine Engineering Technology graduates RECEIVED A JOB OFFER upon graduation.

— Jason Tieman ’97 Senior Director of Development for the Texas A&M Foundation

Celebrate Successes

THE ENGINEERING CLASSROOM AND RESEARCH BUILDING (ECRB) is substantially complete. Turner Construction continues to resolve minor details. This new $50.9 million facility provides critical office, teaching and research space to support the university’s growing engineering programs in Galveston. Classes are set to start in the ECRB during the Fall 2026 semester.

REPAIRS TO THE CLEAR COAT FINISH ON THE AGGIE RING STATUE required the statue to be transported back to the foundry in early February. Repairs were completed and the statue was returned to campus at the end of February — ahead of schedule.

Key Activities

INFRASTRUCTURE, DOCK IMPROVEMENTS AND SHIP FF&E - McCarthy Building Companies serves as the Construction Manager at Risk. An old warehouse building on the existing dock has been demolished and thermal lines have been installed from the Supplemental Utility Plant to support the new training ship. Construction began in September 2025 and substantial completion is anticipated to be September 2027.

THE

SEA TURTLE REHABILITATION HOSPITAL AND EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH CENTER was approved for preconstruction services (including design and engineering) at the May 2025 Board of Regents meeting. Design is underway and construction approval is expected to be requested at the November 2026 Board of Regents meeting.

TEXAS A&M MARITIME ACADEMY HALL BUILDING ENVELOPE

REPAIR PROJECT advanced to the construction phase in December. Roof Section A was completed on time and work on Phase 1 of the building façade is well underway. Substantial completion is scheduled for Summer 2027.

CENTERPOINT ENERGY started relocating the electrical lines beneath the channel in November, replacing the overhead lines along the Pelican Island Bridge. The project is ongoing and is expected to finish by June 2026.

— Grant W. Shallenberger ’86 AVP for Administration and Auxiliary Services

TEXAS

RESEARCH

GRADUATE

Research Enterprise Overview

Texas A&M University at Galveston (TAMUG) has officially submitted its final FY2025 research data to the National Science Foundation’s Higher Education Research and Development Survey (NSF HERD Survey; https://www.herdsurvey.org/). The HERD Survey reports data on a one-year lag to ensure institutional accuracy, and TAMUGs information is included within the overall TAMU report.

In FY2025, TAMUG research expenditures totaled $19.1 million across diversified funding sources, including federal, state, institutional support, nonprofit, and other sources. The Departments of Marine & Coastal Environmental Sciences and Marine Biology led expenditures, with $12.3 million and $5.2 million, respectively. Since the start of FY2026, TAMUG researchers have secured an additional $1.8 million (with select projects highlighted below).

TAMUG’s research enterprise—centered on discovery in the marine realm—differentiates us as a university and drives recruitment. $19.1M $1.8M

New Federal & State Awards

Given the global importance of wetlands in protecting shorelines, are mangroves reliable ‘green infrastructure’ plants near their northern limit, where freezes can kill plants annually? A $200k award to Dr. Anna Armitage from the Division of Environmental Biology at the National Science Foundation (NSF) will help examine the successional sequence of plant recovery following freeze events in Texas, leveraging 10 years of research at an experimental site studying mangroves. The development of the Arctic halocline water layer, essential to predict changes to sea ice cover and regional climate in the Arctic, remains poorly understood. Drs. Rainer Amon and Karl Kaiser have received a $648k award from the Office of Polar Programs at the National Science Foundation (NSF) to analyze new samples from recent icebreaker expeditions. The results will provide a 20-year perspective of Arctic Ocean oceanography with stateof-the-art scientific measurements and analytical capabilities developed at TAMUG.

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) is supporting three new projects at TAMUG.

• Dr. Dini Adyasari received $100k for an initial assessment of coastal groundwater quality and dynamics in the San Jacinto Superfund Site.

• Dr. Christopher Marshall received $100k to develop molecular tools to evaluate the demographics and distribution of sea turtles in Galveston Bay.

• Dr. Sierra Cagle received $385k for continued investment into the Galveston Bay multi-nutrient and multi-species plankton model (MUMPS). The MUMPS model simulates water quality, nutrient loading, phytoplankton biomass and dissolved oxygen responses in shallow coastal bay systems.

Centers, Institutes & Facilities

Institute for a Disaster Resilient Texas (IDRT)

IDRT successfully secured six out of 11 submitted proposals – a 54.5% success rate – and $2.8 million in awards. Combined with the $7 million state appropriation allocated for two years, this brings total annual funding to nearly $10 million.

IDRT provided support for 19 students with nearly $700,000 in funding and launched five new decision-support applications through the Texas Disaster Information System (TDIS) in collaboration with state agencies. Its digital platforms saw strong engagement, with thousands of unique users, while outreach efforts included dozens of technical assistance activities, public presentations, and widespread media coverage.

Research productivity remained high, with 79 peer-reviewed publications generating over 5,300 citations. The institute also introduced several major initiatives such as the Disaster Data Reconnaissance Center, an undergraduate internship program, a new AI-focused disaster program, and expanded national and international partnerships. IDRT grew operationally by relocating to a larger Houston headquarters, growing its presence in College Station, hiring new staff, acquiring new field equipment, and launching a professional training program.

Gulf Research Institute for Highly Migratory Species (GRIHMS)

The Gulf generates billions in commercial and recreational fishing revenue. GRIHMS leadership, graduate students, and staff work to preserve this food supply by conducting research to support healthy and sustainable populations of top predators in the ocean, such as tuna, marlin and tarpon. Species under

investigation by GRIHMS regulate coastal and offshore food webs, and population declines could result in adverse impacts on ocean health. GRIHMS is leading state, federal, and private projects that identify essential habitat criteria and migratory pathways critical to the conservation and management of these top predators. Additionally, GRIHMS is working with Dr. Karl Kaiser (MCES) to understand the prevalence of nano- and microplastics in top predators and potential effects on marine ecosystems.

Gulf Center for Sea Turtle Research (GCSTR)—

From ecosystem dynamics to protecting vital habitats, GCSTR facilitates primary research on sea turtles. Its conservation programs, including the Sea Aggie Sea Turtle Patrol, Sea Turtle Rescue and Recovery, and the Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Hospital, have proven impactful, including ~9000 turtle eggs monitored through the Sea Aggie Sea Turtle Patrol over 10 years.

On August 28, 2025 the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents unanimously approved naming of the Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Hospital and Educational Outreach Center, to be housed within the Gulf Center for Sea Turtle Research at Texas A&M University at Galveston after Cheryl Mellenthin following her generous contributions through the Mark A. Chapman Foundation, totaling $8.55 million in support of the center’s mission to advance sea turtle conservation, research and education.

— Dr. Christopher D. Marshall Regents Professor, Marine BiologyDirector of the Gulf Center for Sea Turtle Research (GCSTR)

Sea Life Facility

Research in the Sea Life Facility focuses on pressing challenges impacting ocean and coastal ecosystems. Kylee Patterson from the Marine Toxicology Lab is studying emerging industrial pollutants found in Galveston Bay and their potential effects on fish health, while Maya Wiley from the Marine Invertebrate Lab is investigating how ocean acidification affects benthic invertebrates.

Projects from undergraduate research scholars include developing novel feeding protocols for upside-down jellyfish, studying the effects of nano plastics on phytoplankton health, and investigating how extreme weather events impact oyster growth. These students are helping refine best practices for culturing these organisms, which supports future research endeavors. This experiential learning — combined with professional development activities — prepares student technicians and interns to enter careers in aquaculture, aquarium science and marine research.

Graduate Studies

In residence at TAMUG, there are 175 graduate students in College of Marine Science and Maritime Studies programs, in addition to a smaller group of Galveston-based graduate students enrolled in programs offered by the Colleges of Arts and Science and Engineering. The Master of Maritime Business Administration & Logistics (MBAA) program has seen 40% year-over-year growth in enrollment. The high caliber of our alumni includes John Hark (’89, ’25), an MBAA graduate who will be honored with the 2026 Selfless Service Outstanding Alumni Award on May 1.

The Erma Lee and Luke Mooney Research Endowment, established in 1997, is one of the few endowments at Texas A&M University at Galveston (TAMUG) that specifically supports graduate student research activities. In 2025, for example, Chandra Hada (PhD student, Marine and Coastal Management and Science) presented her findings at the 2025 Southwest Division of the American Association of Geographers meeting in Las Cruces, New Mexico.

• 103 GRADUATE STUDENTS supported by endowment between 2015-2024

• $62,620 IN FUNDING awarded during this period

• Enabled student travel to 23 COUNTRIES

• The original endowment gift of $215,000 HAS GROWN TO OVER $500,000!

Research Shorts

Over the last 120 years, eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica) populations have significantly declined in distribution and abundance, with the infectious parasite Perkinsus marinus seemingly playing a major role. In March 2026, graduate alum Dr. Aurora Gaona-Hernandez, along with MARB faculty Drs. Antonietta Quigg and Jay Rooker, published a new article in Estuaries and Coasts to investigate trends over 7 years (2005-2011). Freshwater inflow, temperature and salinity explained 73% of total variability in weighted prevalence of P. marinus, and results indicate that P. marinus was strongly associated with salinity.

With ongoing drought conditions in Texas, oysters will not only be stressed by higher salinities, but also P. marinus. This should be of concern to the aquaculture industry.

Our maritime historian, Dr. Blake Earle from the Maritime Studies department, published in Modern American History in February 2026 about the impact of Vietnamese refugees arriving to the Gulf Coast after the Vietnam War. Their arrival naturally created friction with the local population that had fished Gulf Coast waterways for years. The article examines how anxieties around fishing, coupled with racism and xenophobia, fueled violence and division during the late 1970s and early 1980s.

From the Department of Maritime Administration, Dr. Caesar Livingstone investigated the factors associated with incentive-prioritizing electric vehicle buyers in the International Journal of Sustainable

Transportation and published results in January 2026. The study investigates the factors associated with electric vehicle (EV) buyers who prioritize incentives, using data from California’s Vehicle Survey. It finds that hydrogen fuel cell EV buyers who value incentives tend to purchase subcompact cars and face refueling concerns, while Plug-In EV users who prioritize incentives do not recharge during the day and perceive electric vehicles as costly. The research also highlights gender differences in preferences for electric vehicles and offers suggestions for stakeholders to enhance electric vehicle adoption.

From the Nature Publishing Group, Dr. Pete van Hengstum published the first record of rainfall versus evaporation (i.e., water balance) from the northern Bahamas (Abaco Island) in Communications Earth and Environment. The new record documents water balance spanning the last 2000 years (Common Era) from a coastal groundwater-fed blue hole. Similar to Texas, water balance in The Bahamas area is highly sensitive to changes in the Atlantic Warm Pool (i.e., ocean feature) and North Atlantic Subtropical High (i.e., atmospheric feature). The research examines the relationship between sea surface temperatures and rainfall in the Caribbean. It notes that aridity began around 950 CE due to a temperature increase, while increased local hurricane strikes from 1450 to 1850 CE helped mitigate this aridity by increasing rainfall. The findings highlight the importance of understanding changes in rainfall seasonality and hurricane risk for assessing future tropical water security.

‘Sea cows’ in the Middle East

While Dr. Marshall is known for his impact on sea turtles along the Texas coast, in October and December of 2025, he was an author on two articles on dugongs – popularly called ‘sea cows’ – in the Middle East. The research revealed the Arabian Gulf hosts both an ancient fossil bed containing newly identified sea cow species and the world’s largest living dugong herd.

An artistic reconstruction of a herd of ancient sea cows foraging on the seafloor.

Fossils of Salwasiren qatarensis, a newly described 21-million-year-old ancient sea cow species found in Al Maszhabiya [AL mahz-HA-bee-yah], a fossil site in southwestern Qatar.

— Dr. Pete van Hengstum AVP for Research and Graduate Studies, Texas A&M University at

Galveston Associate Dean, College of Marine Sciences and Maritime Studies, Texas A&M University Professor

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

BILLBOARD

Texas A&M University at Galveston raises the curtain on its inaugural island billboard campaign at 61st Street and Broadway, a striking visual declaration of identity, purpose and momentum: Anchored in Galveston. Impacting the World.

Prominently visible at the threshold of 61st Street and Broadway after one crosses the Causeway, the new billboard marks a watershed moment for the campus and its community. Opportunities for placement on the island have been rare — unavailable for nearly a decade — rendering this debut both symbolic and historic.

This impact statement serves as the strategic framework for Texas A&M University at Galveston’s billboard campaign message:

“Anchored in Galveston, we draw our strength from an island that has weathered storms, sparked innovation, and shaped generations of leaders. Here, at the edge of the Gulf, learning is fueled by the rhythm of the sea and the resilience of a community that stands strong against every tide. From this remarkable place, our impact reaches far beyond the shoreline. What begins on our island grows into discoveries that protect our oceans, solutions that serve Texas, and leadership that advances the world. Because when you are anchored in Galveston, you don’t just study change — you shape what happens next.

THE POWER OF STORYTELLING — $50K

MICROPLASTIC POLLUTION

Tracking Microplastics From Orbit

Dr. Karl Kaiser of Texas A&M University at Galveston is developing a groundbreaking method to detect microplastics using satellite imagery.

By studying how tiny plastic particles change ocean color, his work could enable global tracking of microplastic pollution from orbit. The impact is already notable — this research story helped inspire a $50,000 donation to support continued efforts in ocean health.

ANCHORED FOR GOOD

The new Anchored for Good commercial initiative, highlights our mission as part of Texas A&M University’s, Together, We Stand As a Force for Good campaign and shows how we shape the future of our coasts, oceans, communities and beyond by underscoring Texas A&M-Galveston’s role as the university’s marine and maritime campus, where students, faculty and researchers work daily to protect marine environments, advance maritime readiness, and support coastal communities.

165,567

IMPRESSIONS

6,250 LIKES

1,237 SHARES 10HR 50MIN WATCH TIME

13,050 ENGAGEMENT

— Toni Mooney Smith, MSC Director, Marketing and Communications

STUDENT AFFAIRS

SPRING 2026

Fall 2026 presents both strong enrollment demand and significant housing pressures for Texas A&M University at Galveston. Capacity has been constrained by temporary housing losses during TAMMA Hall’s repair and renovation, growth in the Corps of Cadets, increasing numbers of upperclassmen choosing to remain on campus, and what may be a record incoming class. In response, Campus Living & Learning has expanded resources and partnerships to help ensure students have access to safe housing both on and off campus.

On March 2, 2026, Campus Living & Learning partnered with Student Assistance Services to host the campus’s first Off-Campus Housing Fair in nearly 15 years. More than a dozen apartment communities, realtors, and long-term rental providers participated, connecting with nearly 100 students during the twohour event.

Campus Living & Learning and Student Assistance Services are also expanding educational programming to prepare students who may transition to offcampus housing. These initiatives include “Lease & Learn” workshops covering Texas renter law and lease literacy, presentations on Aggie Search, a partnership with Apartments.com designed to help Aggies locate available housing, and coordination with colleagues in College Station to assist students transitioning there in securing housing.

CORPS OF CADETS

Between February 8-10, 10 cadets (8 females and 2 males) and 1 staff member attended the 2026 Women on the Water Conference, hosted by the Consortium of State Maritime Academies with support from the United States Maritime Administration and Great Lakes Maritime Academy and Northwestern Michigan College, held at MITAGS Facility located Linthicum Heights, MD.

This event is designed to empower female cadets and industry professionals, allow networking, and address industry challenges.

12TH VAN

This transportation service for students without cars launched in the fall thanks the thoughtful donations of Dr. Sue E. ’94 and Patrick D. Mahoney ’71, Lynette and Darnell Knippa ’70, and the Mary Moody Northen Endowment.

Their gifts allowed for the purchase of a 12 passenger 2025 Ford Transit 350 XLT equipped with advanced safety and entertainment features. This spring the vehicle will get a maroon and white wrap with 12th Van, Aggies by the Sea, and Texas A&M University Texas A&M Galveston Campus branding.

From August to March, nearly 150 students rode the van to medical appointments, grocery stores, and other destinations. The university has seven drivers certified with Student Assistant Services and soon one will be available on Sundays to provide rides to Galveston’s Own Farmers Market.

The van takes international students to welcome parties in College Station, international food markets, banks, and social security offices near Galveston. It also serves students, staff, and faculty with transportation to conferences, field trips, donation runs, and volunteer events.

— Ken Bailey MA, LPC-S Interim Associate Vice President for Student Affairs, Director of Career and Ability Services

GALVESTON

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES

Technology Services System Audit

OVERALL CONCLUSION

Insuring the physical and digital security of our campus is critical, given the increasing importance of the technological landscape. As a state institution, we are trusted to protect sensitive systems reliant on older or obsolete devices are more vulnerable to cybersecurity and operational issues.

To ensure the security of our campus, Technology Services implemented a computer surplus program to refresh technology campus-wide. After helping departments identify devices approaching obsolescence, we provided significant upgrades to campus systems by ensuring these devices were replaced. Each upgrade made is in accordance with university and state security policies.

Technology Services will continue to work alongside other departments to identify obsolete devices and keep Texas A&M University at Galveston a technologically secure campus.

Many of the technological features present in the new Engineering Classroom Research Building (ECRB) were designed and implemented by Technology Services. We outfitted the new classrooms to include new ultra-short-throw projectors that avoid shining light at professors’ faces during lectures, and advanced cameras that follow professors to keep them in frame when they pace in front of their classes.

In addition, Technology Services installed new desk-embedded digital screens that provide students with an immersive learning experience and can retract when not in use. Finally, we ensured the ECRB is outfitted with a robust new Wi-Fi infrastructure, giving the new building the fastest internet connection on campus. Together, these features will help future engineering students at Texas A&M at Galveston continue to excel.

— John Kovacevich ’94 Executive Director, Technology Services

ENGINEERING

The new Engineering Classroom and Research Building (ECRB) will soon empower future engineers in creating the next generation of innovations.

The three-story facility brings together five departments under one roof, providing engineering students with inspiring spaces to learn, collaborate, and innovate. Expanded, flexible spaces will accommodate growth in enrollment and research, attract top faculty and students, and provide exceptional opportunities for hands-on learning.

The ECRB, which began construction in 2024, had a soft opening in early 2026 when faculty and staff moved into it. An official ribbon cutting for the building is planned for later this year.