"As a member of the Senate Higher Education Committee, I congratulate Admiral William H. McRaven for being selected as the sole finalist for Chancellor of The University of Texas System by the Board of Regents.

"Admiral McRaven has a record of legendary leadership and decisiveness. Best known for leading the successful search for Osama bin Laden, he literally wrote the book on special operations, a textbook that is required reading for courses at institutions including the National Defense University. As intelligent as he is humble, he is admired and respected by members of both parties as well as by the countless Longhorns who listened to his inspiring commencement address at The University of Texas at Austin in May. Because he is an accomplished strategist and no stranger to rough waters, he is expected to help navigate the UT System past recent controversy and focus on excellence.

"As a life member of the Texas Exes and a Distinguished Alumnus of UT-Austin, Admiral McRaven should be a champion for his alma mater who recognizes the importance of investing in excellence, affordability and accessibility to enhance higher education opportunities for all Texans. Accordingly, I am optimistic that he will work collaboratively and productively with legislators; regents; UT President Bill Powers and presidents of other UT intuitions; and faculty, staff, students and alumni."

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