Jay Hartzell Named SMU President

Jay Hartzell, the president of the University of Texas at Austin, has been appointed as the next president of Southern Methodist University (SMU), effective June 1. His departure is notable given the timing amid UT's College Football Playoff run and his significant role in the school's transition to the SEC. Hartzell has led UT Austin since September 2020, overseeing notable achievements including increased enrollment and athletic success, with the Longhorns winning 11 NCAA national championships during his tenure. SMU's board of trustees unanimously approved his appointment, highlighting his commitment to academic excellence and diversity. Hartzell expressed excitement about leading SMU, a smaller private institution, which allows for greater flexibility in academic initiatives compared to UT Austin's public status. He will continue in his role at UT until the end of the spring semester while the Longhorns compete for a national title.