Dear Members of the USF Community,
I write with an update on the university’s presidential transition.
As you know, Paul J. Fitzgerald, S.J., will step down as president of the university on Dec. 31, 2024, after a remarkable 10 years of service.
The process of searching for the 29th president of USF is well underway. Progress is posted on the presidential search website, and I invite everyone’s participation in this very important process. The Board of Trustees seeks your input and perspectives, whether through the feedback sessions, which are underway, or via the survey, which is accessible on the search website.
As we proceed, I am pleased to announce that the Board of Trustees has approved a resolution to appoint USF Chancellor John P. Fitzgibbons, S.J., interim president of the university, effective Jan. 1, 2025. Read more about Fr. Fitzgibbons »
Until the next president is selected, Fr. Fitzgibbons will serve as our interim leader and spokesperson. He will work closely with the acting senior vice president, vice presidents, and Leadership Team members to support the day-to-day management of the university.
With their teams and in collaboration across all divisions, the vice presidents will work on behalf of the university to guide our steps forward, aligned with our mission, vision, and values and with our strategic priorities.
I am grateful to Fr. Fitzgibbons for agreeing to step into this interim role, and immensely thankful to Fr. Fitzgerald for his work and contributions to our university these past 10 years.
And I thank all of you for supporting our work together. The Presidential Search Committee will continue to update you on the progress of the presidential search.
I wish you and yours a happy and peaceful Thanksgiving, and please know how grateful I am for your contributions to our university.
Sincerely,
Jack Boland
USF Class of 1978
Chair, USF Board of Trustees