A&M-Texarkana Student Attending on RELLIS Campus Passes Away from Medical Emergency

TEXARKANA, Texas - Texas A&M University-Texarkana officials were notified Friday, May 1, 2026, that an A&M-Texarkana biology student attending classes at the RELLIS Academic Alliance in Bryan, Texas passed away due to a medical emergency on April 29, 2026. Aiden Villarreal was a senior biology major from Bryan, TX, who working towards his goal of becoming a science teacher.

Dr. Sebastian Schmidl, Associate Professor of Biology at RELLIS, stated that Aiden stood out for his genuine interest in biology, particularly evolutionary biology. He noted that Aiden was naturally curious and always wanted to understand the material, not just memorize it. "I am very grateful I had the chance to teach him," said Schmidl. "He will be remembered for both his passion for biology and the sincere, thoughtful way he approached learning."

"We were deeply saddened to learn of Aiden's passing," said Texas A&M University-Texarkana President Dr. Ross Alexander. "Our thoughts are with Aiden's family, friends, classmates, and professors as they navigate this difficult time."

Through the RELLIS Academic Alliance, students earn an accredited bachelor's degree from one of the Texas A&M University System institutions while attending classes on the RELLIS campus in Bryan, TX. Texas A&M University-Texarkana offers three bachelor's degree programs at the RELLIS campus- Biology, Electrical Engineering, and Supply Chain Management.