Portfolio

The portfolio strategically coalesces programs and initiatives that demonstrate our determination to raise the bar of excellence in higher education and service to our State, nation and world. We are organized to maximize student empowerment, faculty support and development, and pushing the boundaries of knowledge - delivery on the university’s ambitious mission.

Leadership

The Office of the Provost is driven by a passionate team of dedicated professionals, including deans, associate provosts, and staff. Each member is committed to upholding and advancing unparalleled excellence at Texas A&M University, working tirelessly to empower and inspire students, faculty, and staff.

The Provost

The Provost spearheads strategic initiatives that elevate educational quality and drive impactful research. We empower a collaborative and innovative environment that aligns with Texas A&M University’s status as a leader in higher education.

Meet the Provost
Provost Alan Sams standing outside white building in maroon suit

A Message from the Provost

Read a message from Provost and Executive Vice President Alan Sams.

Provost in a meeting with three others sitting at a table

Request a Visit from the Provost

Curious about how to bring Provost Alan Sams to your next special event or academic engagement? Find out how to request a visit and learn more about the opportunities for interaction.

A Brief History

Establishing the early version of the Office of the Provost was recommended to President James Earl Rudder in 1960 in an external management study conducted by Ernst & Ernst. Originally named the Vice President for Academics, the office was eventually established in 1966, and was charged with oversight of all academic operations for the growing campus. In 1972, the title of the division became Academic Affairs, and remained such until 1984 when it was renamed the Office of the Provost.

The title evolved to become Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost in 1984 when Texas A&M University President Frank E. Vandiver promoted Gordon P. Eaton to the role. Eaton was formerly the Dean of the College of Geosciences before becoming the inaugural title bearer as Provost.

Role of the Office of the Provost and Executive Vice President

Today, the Office of the Provost at Texas A&M serves as the chief academic officer, playing a critical role in shaping and overseeing the academic vision and operations of the institution. The Provost and Executive Vice President, second-in-command after the University President, is responsible for ensuring the quality of academic programs, faculty development, research initiatives, enrollment, student service and overall academic leadership.

Below is an overview of functions and responsibilities:

Academic Leadership and Planning

Strategic Oversight

The Provost oversees and facilitates the development and implementation of the institution's academic strategic plan, ensuring alignment with the broader institutional mission and goals.

Collaborative Innovation

Works closely with deans, department heads, and faculty to ensure academic programs are current, innovative, and responsive to the needs of students, industry and society.

Curriculum Leadership

Works with deans, department heads and faculty to review and approve new programs, courses, and curriculum changes while upholding academic integrity and rigor, affirming the outstanding academic reputation of Texas A&M.

Faculty Affairs & Development

Faculty Management

The office of the Provost manages faculty recruitment, appointments and promotions, tenure, and evaluations through the Division of Faculty Affairs. 

Development Initiatives 

Spearheading initiatives related to faculty professional development, teaching excellence, and research productivity.

Resource Equity

Ensures the equitable allocation of resources among faculty members and support programs that enhance faculty development and success. 

Student Success & Academic Affairs

Academic Advancement

The office of the Provost oversees student retention, graduation rates, and the overall academic experience, working to enhance student support systems, advising, and academic services within the Division of Academic Affairs. 

Integrity Initiatives

Leads initiatives on academic integrity, honors programs, and co-curricular learning opportunities. 

Resource Optimization

In collaboration with other divisions, the Office of the Provost ensures that TExas A&M resources, such as libraries and academic advising, are optimized to support student learning.

Budget & Resource Allocation

Resource Allocation

The Provost overseas the allocation of resources across academic units, balancing the needs of departments, faculty and students. 

Budget Management

Manages budgets for academic programs, research initiatives, faculty hiring, and other educational expenses. 

Research & Innovation

Research Stewardship

The Office of the Provost promotes research initiatives, manages tech research infrastructure, and stewards funding for academic and research initiatives through the Division of Research. 

Innovation Collaboration

Fosters collaboration among faculty, ensures compliance with research regulations and supports innovation that extends beyond the classroom and labs.

Shared Governance

Governance Engagement

The Provost leans into a shared governance model consulting with key constituencies within the academic community, ensuring the representation of diverse perspectives in policy development, student experience, faculty hiring, and curriculum design. 

Access Improvement

Supports the development of high-quality programs aimed at improving access and success for students and faculty irrespective of level, location or modality. 

Accreditation & Assessment

Accreditation Oversight

The Provost oversees the process of institutional accreditation and academic program review, ensuring that the university meets the standards set by accrediting institutions. 

Quality Assessment

Leads efforts to assess and improve academic outcomes and quality assurance processes. 
Interdisciplinary & Community Engagement
Interdisciplinary Innovation
The Office of the Provost encourages interdisciplinary collaborations among departments, fostering innovative teaching and research that cross traditional academic boundaries. 
Community Engagement 
Facilitates community partnerships, service learning, and pre-college experiences for grade schoolers.

Global Engagement & Internationalization

International Initiatives 

Advances initiatives in global engagement by developing international partnerships, promoting study abroad programs, and ensuring that the curriculum prepares our students for global citizenship.

Top Ranking in Study Abroad Experiences

Texas A&M consistently ranks in the top 5 universities for student experience in international study abroad participation.

Officiates Commencements  & Ensures the Reputation of the Degree

Diploma Oversight

The Office of the Provost oversees the awarding of diplomas to the graduates of Texas A&M through the Office of the Registrar.

Program Excellence

The Provost ensures that academic programs meet high standards of rigor, relevance, and quality. By overseeing curriculum development, program reviews, and accreditation processes, ensuring that Texas A&M's degrees are highly regarded and credible in the job market and by other educational institutions. 

Institutional Integrity

The Office of the Provost serves as the institutional backbone of Texas A&M, ensuring the quality and integrity of our academic programs while ensuring the world-class reputation, global impact, societal contributions and innovation.

Strategic Plan

This strategic plan embraces Texas A&M’s tradition of future-oriented preparedness and unleashes our brightest potential.

Strategic Plan 2020-2025