**West Virginia University Chooses Next President**
MORGANTOWN, WV – After a thorough search process, West Virginia University (WVU) has named its next president, selecting Dr. Jennifer L. Smith, a distinguished leader in higher education, to succeed Dr. E. Gordon Gee. Dr. Smith, currently the Provost and Executive Vice President at the University of Michigan, will take office in July 2025. This announcement marks the beginning of a new era for WVU, as the university seeks to navigate the challenges of higher education in a rapidly changing landscape.
Dr. Smith’s appointment follows a comprehensive nationwide search led by the university’s Board of Governors, who focused on identifying a leader with the vision and expertise to advance the institution’s academic and research goals. Smith stood out among a competitive pool of candidates due to her exceptional track record in academic leadership, a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and her ability to forge strong community and industry partnerships.
“I am deeply honored to be selected as the next president of West Virginia University,” Dr. Smith said in a statement. “WVU has long been a beacon of higher learning, and I am excited to work alongside faculty, students, and staff to build on its legacy of excellence. Together, we will tackle the challenges facing higher education today and ensure WVU remains a leader in innovation, research, and student success.”
Throughout her career, Dr. Smith has held various senior academic roles at prestigious institutions, where she has demonstrated a commitment to advancing academic quality, fostering inclusivity, and supporting community engagement. Her work at the University of Michigan involved enhancing interdisciplinary research and expanding access to higher education for underserved populations—goals she plans to continue to pursue at WVU.
In addition to her academic achievements, Dr. Smith is recognized for her financial acumen, having successfully navigated budget constraints while ensuring the continued success of academic programs. WVU’s Board of Governors has emphasized the importance of fiscal responsibility in the current higher education environment, and Dr. Smith’s experience in managing large institutions will be a critical asset in maintaining the university’s financial health.
As WVU faces evolving challenges, including budgetary pressures, changing student demographics, and the rapid advancement of technology, Dr. Smith’s leadership will be essential in charting a course for the university’s future. One of her key priorities will be strengthening WVU’s position as a national leader in research and innovation, particularly in areas such as healthcare, energy, and environmental sciences.
The announcement has been met with widespread support from faculty, staff, and students alike. Dr. Gee, who has served as president since 2014, praised Dr. Smith’s appointment, saying, “Her vision for the future of higher education, coupled with her extensive experience, makes her the ideal leader to take WVU to new heights.”
Dr. Smith’s selection also signals WVU’s commitment to enhancing its role as an economic and cultural cornerstone for the state of West Virginia. In her upcoming role, she will be tasked with continuing to drive academic excellence while also ensuring that the university remains a vibrant hub of innovation and opportunity for the people of West Virginia and beyond.