R. Bowen Loftin

Former President of Texas A&M University

What is R. Bowen Loftin known for?

R. Bowen Loftin, a respected academic administrator, and physicist, was born on June 29, 1949, in Hearne, Texas. A proud alumnus of Hearne High School, he played a significant role in shaping the education sector in the United States. R. Bowen Loftin has served as the 22nd Chancellor of the University of Missouri from February 1, 2014, to November 11, 2015, and as the 24th President of Texas A&M University from February 12, 2010, to January 13, 2014.

Loftin's passion for knowledge drove him to excel in physics, leading him to graduate with highest honors from Texas A&M University in three years, earning a Bachelor of Science degree. He later earned a Master of Science degree and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in physics from Rice University. Professors and students alike benefited from his expertise in computational physics during his tenure at several respected institutions, including Texas A&M University at Galveston, the University of Houston, and Old Dominion University.

Loftin's professional journey took an exciting turn in May 1986 when he began working for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration as the Principal Investigator for Advanced Training Technologies of the Space Flight Training Division. His valuable contributions to education and training in space technologies are remembered even today. He also served as the director of the NASA Virtual Environments Research Institute at the University of Houston, further solidifying his contributions to the field of science.

Loftin then moved to Old Dominion University in 2000, where he held multiple professorships and also served as the executive director of the Virginia Modeling, Analysis, and Simulation Center until 2005.

Loftin's leadership skills were evident when he was appointed as the vice president and CEO of Texas A&M University at Galveston in May 2005. In the wake of Hurricane Ike in 2008, Loftin oversaw the evacuation and relocation of almost all students, faculty, and staff to the main Texas A&M campus. This monumental task is believed to be the first time in history that an entire institution of higher education was relocated for an extended period.

Collectively, R. Bowen Loftin's contributions to academia and his leadership in times of crisis are testament to his commitment to higher education and the well-being of his students and staff.