AUSTIN, Texas — University of Texas at Austin president Jay Hartzell is leaving his role to take on a new position at a private Dallas institution.
On Tuesday, Southern Methodist University (SMU) shared that Hartzell was “unanimously voted” as the university’s newest president, starting on June 1.
Hartzell will replace current SMU president R. Gerald Turner, who has remained in his role since 1995.
“I am honored to serve as the next president of an exceptional institution like SMU in one of the most dynamic and fastest-growing cities in the nation, and excited to see how I can make the greatest impact as a leader,” Hartzell said.
As the 30th UT president, Hartzell shared his announcement with university faculty members on Tuesday.
“Today, I am writing to let you know that I am following my own advice, which has led to my decision that this semester will be my last as the president of The University of Texas at Austin,” the letter said in part.
He noted various accomplishments achieved throughout his five-year career as president, including preparing for the university’s Academic Medical Center, implementing programs like the School of Civic Leadership and beginning the construction of buildings such as Mulva Hall.
Hartzell’s time at UT Austin
Hartzell served as UT Austin president since 2020 but faced calls to step down in spring 2024 as pro-Palestine protests broke out across campus.
Back in April of last year, roughly over 600 faculty members signed a letter of having “no confidence” in Hartzell after they said he called for police assistance during the protests.
Before his work as president, Hartzell worked for more than four years as the 12th McCombs School of Business dean. In 2001, he worked for the business school in various different titles.