The Curious Case of Sarah Martinez Tucker

"For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light."
Luke 8:17

How very strange:

The head of the University of Texas System's governing board, Sara Martinez Tucker, has told high-ranking UT officials she plans to step down as a regent on Jan. 15, 2019.

No reason was immediately given for her sudden departure. The announcement was confirmed to The Texas Tribune by two sources.

It's impossible to know what to make of this development.  Tucker has been board chair for barely a year.  She got the position when Governor Abbott forced out her predecessor.  Tucker has always been thought of as close to Abbott.

The simplest explanation would be that a new personal or professional development precludes Tucker from finishing her term.  If Tucker has a new job or a sick relative, that could explain a lot.  However, if that were the case, one would think such an explanation would accompany the announcement.  It's not a secret that the University has been embroiled in controversy, but Tucker seems like a strange head to roll (at least without others).

Regardless of why, this is an opportunity.  Governor Abbott now has to appoint four new regents next spring.  For citizens and legislators concerned with the direction of higher education, this is the point of maximum leverage.

Bottom Line:  Weird....