In early 1998, Chancellor Thompson convened two groups to explore the future of distance learning in A&M System. As a result of this effort, sixteen individuals representing nine campuses, the Health Science Center, and the agencies were designated by their chief executive officers to focus on policies and strategies to accommodate instructional technologies and multi-media based programs formed the Distance Education Advisory Council. The council met regularly to develop guiding principles as the focus for the initial development of The Texas A&M University System Online, a web portal that would provide students access to online educational opportunities. In 2003, several System initiatives, including distance education, were disbanded and offices were dissolved.  In 2008, under the direction of Chancellor Mike McKinney, the A&M System reestablished its focus on distance education by reactivating an advisory council, with representation from system member universities and agencies.

In late 2013, Dr. James Hallmark, A&M System Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, initiated a restructuring of the council into a more formal and encompassing organization, which would provide collaborative strategic direction for academic technology and educational innovations for the System members.

 Learn more about the Office of Academic Affairs.