On 2026-09-15, Representative Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE CAREER OF DR. CHRISTOPHER MAYNARD" in the House.
HONORING THE CAREER OF DR. CHRISTOPHER MAYNARD Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 145 (Tuesday, September 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 145 (Tuesday, September 15, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E929-E930] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE CAREER OF DR. CHRISTOPHER MAYNARD ______ HON. HENRY CUELLAR of texas in the house of representatives Tuesday, September 15, 2026 Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Christopher Maynard, President of Texas A&M International University in Laredo, Texas, and to honor his distinguished career in higher education and his continued commitment to expanding opportunities for students and communities. Dr. Maynard became TAMIU's seventh president in October 2025, bringing decades of experience in higher education, including leadership positions at the University of Houston-Clear Lake, Sam Houston State University, and the University of North Alabama. Since taking the helm at TAMIU, Dr. Maynard has overseen a historic year for the university. For the first time in its history, TAMIU surpassed 9,000 students. The university also celebrated its highest number of graduates ever, with 10 percent more students graduating than at any previous point in its history. Under his leadership, TAMIU successfully reaffirmed its accreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, an important recognition of the university's commitment to academic quality and student success. Dr. Maynard has also helped secure a historic $38 million unrestricted gift from Yield Giving, which will expand merit-based scholarships and help create greater educational opportunities for deserving students. Mr. Speaker, Dr. Maynard's leadership comes at an important time for TAMIU and for [[Page E930]] the Laredo community. His work is helping expand educational opportunities, strengthen our university, and prepare the next generation of leaders in South Texas. I congratulate Dr. Maynard on his accomplishments and thank him for his service to Texas A&M International University and the Laredo community. ____________________