08/11/2026
TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY NAMES NEW OPAS DIRECTOR
Monica Mundo Elliott to Assume New Role on September 1, 2026
Following a national search, Monica Mundo Elliott has been named the new Director of OPAS at Texas A&M University. Monica will transition from OPAS Assistant Director to the leadership role after working with the organization for the past three years. She succeeds Anne Black who will retire from the university after 42 years of service on August 31, 2026.
Monica began her tenure with OPAS in 2023 as Marketing & Development Manager. She was promoted to Assistant Director in 2025, a role she has continued until being named OPAS Director. As Assistant Director, Monica led strategic marketing, audience development, and community engagement initiatives to expand patron reach, strengthen brand visibility, and increase donor conversion. Working closely with Anne, Monica contributed to season development and program selection processes and cultivated relationships with donors, sponsors, and community leaders.
Her previous experience at Texas A&M includes serving as Associate Director of the Department of Student Activities from 1999-2006. During her time in the private sector, she built extensive executive leadership experience as an entrepreneur, business owner, executive consultant, and Chief Operating Officer.
In addition to her professional experience, Monica volunteered with OPAS Encore! a non-profit organization that provides funding to OPAS for education and family programming, for more than a decade.
Scott Shafer, Professor and Executive Director of Texas A&M’s Campus and Community Enrichment and member of the search committee states, “Monica was a unanimous choice by the committee members because she possesses a vast amount of experience that perfectly fits this role. She’s a strategic leader with experience in areas that are highly valuable including arts administration, community engagement, organizational operations, donor development, and more.”
Monica states, “Alongside our experienced staff, committed volunteers and inspiring student committee, I am ready to build upon the strong foundation established for OPAS over its 54-year history. I am energized by the opportunity to continue growing audiences, strengthening financial sustainability, expanding donor and community engagement, and ensuring that OPAS remains a vibrant and impactful cultural resource for Texas A&M University and the region.” She continues, “I’m so grateful for my time working with Anne these past years. Her mentorship has meant the world to me as well as the rest of our staff. We can’t wait to continue the legacy she established for OPAS.”
Currently in its 54th season, OPAS presents professional productions of theatre, music and dance programs that enlighten, entertain and inspire audiences of the Brazos Valley. OPAS is situated in the Department of Community Engagement. and supported by Texas A&M University with programming funded by revenue from ticket sales, sponsorships, and contributions.
