I am a graduate of Texas A&M University—fightin’ Texas Aggie Class of 1994! The Aggie Code says that Aggies don’t lie, cheat, or steal…or tolerate those who do. It’s fitting that we consider the Aggie code following a review of the Ten Commandments over the last ten months.
Fifteen years ago, Robert M. Gates became the 22nd President of Texas A&M. As President, he made progress toward the university’s goal to become one of the top 10 public universities by 2020. “Vision 2020” focused on improving student diversity, increasing the size of the faculty, building new academic facilities, and enriching the undergraduate and graduate education experience.
During his tenure, Gates saw increases in minority enrollment, encouraged the addition of 440 new faculty positions, and initiated a $300 million campus construction program.
Gates detailed his experience leading Texas A&M—as well as his experiences leading the CIA and serving as Secretary of Defense—in his 2016 autobiography entitled A Passion for Leadership: Lessons on Change and Reform from Fifty Years of Public Service. Gates’ track record at Texas A&M was impressive, but I was particularly impressed when after being named Secretary of Defense by President George W. Bush, he remained in the role under President Obama. Certainly, he has some leadership lessons worth learning!
Click here to read more about Robert Gates and his passion for leadership.