University of San Diego President James T. Harris III Resigned
James T. Harris III will conclude his 12-year tenure as the university president in 2027.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in People
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University of San Diego President James T. Harris III has announced his resignation to the school's Board of Trustees. He intends to remain in his position until stepping down in 2027.
Why it matters
The departure marks a significant leadership transition for the university, which was founded in 1949. The Board of Trustees is beginning a nationwide search to identify his successor.
James T. Harris III served as the fourth president of the institution over a 12-year period. His career in education spans more than 45 years in total.
The players
James T. Harris III
He is the fourth president of the University of San Diego and has led the institution for 12 years.
Board of Trustees
This body governs the university and is responsible for conducting the nationwide search for a new president.
The details
After informing the Board of Trustees of his decision during a weekend retreat, Harris committed to a transition period before leaving the role. Following his resignation, he plans to return to the university faculty to focus on teaching and writing after taking a sabbatical.
Timeline
The university was founded in 1949.
Harris informed the Board of Trustees of his plans last weekend.
Harris is scheduled to step down as president in 2027.
Market Landscape
This transition follows the established pattern of long-tenured academic leaders stepping down to allow for new institutional direction. It marks a significant shift for the university as it competes for top administrative talent in the current higher education market.
The university community should anticipate institutional updates as the Board of Trustees begins its search for a new leader. For students and faculty, this shift signals potential changes in the long-term academic and operational priorities of the campus.
The takeaway
The university's plan for a lengthy transition period allows for a stable search process for its fifth president. Harris's move to a faculty role ensures his decades of academic experience will remain accessible to the university community.
What happens next
The university is expected to share formal search plans for the new president with the community in the coming weeks and months.
Further reading
Find more updates regarding campus leadership changes in our People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KSWB 5/69.
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