The current president of the University of Texas at Austin has been named the next president of Southern Methodist University (SMU).
SMU’s Board of Trustees unanimously approved Jay Hartzell’s appointment, which will take effect on June 1, 2025.
Hartzell will succeed R. Gerald Turner, who has served as SMU’s president since 1995.
Hartzell, who became UT Austin’s president in 2020, brings extensive experience in academic leadership. He previously served as dean of UT’s McCombs School of Business.
His tenure at UT Austin has been marked by efforts to strengthen the university’s financial stability, enhance academic programs, and guide the institution through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I am honored to serve as the next president of SMU and eager to join a community committed to excellence in education and research,” Hartzell said in a statement. He also praised the legacy of outgoing president Turner, whose leadership over nearly three decades has transformed SMU into a prominent private university with robust research and academic programs.
Hartzell’s appointment follows a comprehensive search process that emphasized finding a leader who aligns with SMU’s mission and values while driving innovation and growth.
His background in managing a major public university is seen as an asset for SMU, which continues to expand its role in the educational and research landscape of Dallas and beyond.
Turner leaves behind a legacy of significant achievements, including the enhancement of SMU’s research capabilities, academic offerings, and overall reputation. His leadership has been credited with positioning SMU as a center for academic excellence and innovation.
The transition comes as SMU seeks to build on its momentum, with Hartzell expected to focus on advancing academic initiatives and fostering innovation. Faculty, staff, and students have expressed optimism about the future under his leadership.
At the University of Texas at Austin, Hartzell’s departure will prompt a search for a new president. The institution aims to find a leader who can continue the progress made during Hartzell’s tenure.
