USD President James Harris III Announces Retirement
The University of San Diego leader will step down next year once a successor is named.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Higher Education
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University of San Diego President James Harris III has announced he will step down from his position next year. Harris has led the institution since 2015, helping guide the campus through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Why it matters
His tenure focused on increasing student enrollment and enhancing the university's academic visibility. During this period, the school secured significant philanthropic support and expanded its campus housing capacity.
Under Harris, student enrollment grew to 10,023 from 8,251. Major capital projects include the $230 million Presidio Terrace Apartments, which will add 700 student beds.
The players
James Harris III
He has served as the president of the University of San Diego since 2015 and will transition to a faculty role following a sabbatical.
Don Knauss
He is a significant university benefactor who contributed a $50 million donation in 2021.
Darlene Marcos Shiley
She is a prominent university donor who pledged $75 million to the institution in 2024.
The details
The university is currently developing a new three-story facility dedicated to science, technology, engineering, and math education. Harris was known for his personal engagement, often providing his email to students and joining them on walks in Tecolote Canyon.
Timeline
2015: James Harris III became the fourth president of USD.
2020: James Harris III guided the campus through the COVID-19 pandemic.
2021: Don Knauss donated $50 million to the university.
2024: Darlene Marcos Shiley pledged $75 million to the university.
Next year: James Harris III will formally step down.
Culture Shift
The leadership change marks a transition in the university's long-term strategy following an era defined by aggressive infrastructure growth and major philanthropic partnerships. This shift reflects a broader trend of private institutions professionalizing campus life through large-scale capital investments.
Students and faculty should anticipate a transition period as the university board begins the search for a new president to replace Harris. The shift comes as the school nears completion of major projects like the Presidio Terrace Apartments, which will fundamentally change campus living for future students.
The takeaway
The transition represents a pivotal change for the university as it moves from a period of intense construction and fundraising to a new leadership chapter. The institutional focus remains on maintaining the enrollment growth and academic visibility established over the last decade.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in local academia on the Higher Education page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by San Diego Union-Tribune.
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