Jay Hartzell to Assume SMU Presidency on June 1, 2025, Succeeding R. Gerald Turner

Jan 7, 2025, 05:13 PM

Jay Hartzell, the current president of the University of Texas at Austin, has been appointed as the next president of Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, effective June 1, 2025. Hartzell, who has served as UT's president since 2020, will succeed R. Gerald Turner, who has led SMU for 30 years and will transition to the role of president emeritus. Hartzell's move to SMU marks a significant leadership change for both institutions. At UT, Hartzell was instrumental in the university's transition to the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and oversaw a period of growth in applications, enrollment, graduation rates, research expenditures, and philanthropy. His leadership at UT also included advancing new academic programs and increasing impact in key research areas. SMU's Board of Trustees unanimously voted for Hartzell, citing his ability to build upon the university's momentum and lead it into its next era. Hartzell expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity, highlighting SMU's rising national reputation and the dynamic environment of Dallas.