University of Illinois System
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Active Search · 2026

Finding the Next President of the U of I System

The Board of Trustees has launched a national search for the next president of one of the nation's great public university systems, serving more than 90,000 students across three campuses.

About the search

A pivotal moment for the University of Illinois System

0K+

Students across 3 campuses

$0B

Annual economic impact

Top 0

Public research university

Search timeline

Feb 2026
Search announced; search firm selected by Board of Trustees
Mid-April 2026
Search committee announced; co-chairs designated
Late April – May 2026
Listening sessions and stakeholder engagement; leadership profile developed
June 2026
Active search launches; prospectus and website go live
June – Sept 2026
Candidate recruitment, evaluation, and interviews
Dec 2026 – Jan 2027
New president announced

Search committee

Committee members represent faculty, staff, students, trustees, and community voices across all three campuses.

Co
Co-Chair (TBD)

Board of Trustees

Co
Co-Chair (TBD)

Board of Trustees

FC
Faculty Representative

UIUC

FC
Faculty Representative

UIC

Leadership profile highlights

The full prospectus and leadership profile will be available at launch. Key qualifications include:

Required Experience
  • Senior executive in higher education
  • Demonstrated research leadership
  • Track record of fundraising
Desired Qualities
  • Commitment to access and equity
  • Public engagement and advocacy
  • Vision for public higher ed

Download full leadership profile (available at search launch)

FAQs

Who is eligible to be nominated?

Nominations may be submitted by any member of the university community or the general public. Nominees do not need to be notified in advance.

Is the search confidential?

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How can I participate in a listening session?

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Which executive search firm is leading the search?

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Sessions open to faculty, staff, students, and the public. Dates to be announced.

Urbana-Champaign

Date TBD · Spring 2026

Chicago

Date TBD · Spring 2026

Springfield

Date TBD · Spring 2026

Selected by the Board of Trustees in March 2026. Candidates and nominators may contact the firm directly.

Search firm contact info →

For media inquiries, contact the U of I System Office of Strategic Communications.

Submit a nomination

Know someone who would be a great fit? We welcome nominations from the entire university community.

Submit nomination