The University of Tampa confirmed on Friday, Oct. 23, that former University of South Carolina president Dr. Harris Pastides will step into the role of interim president for the balance of the fall 2026 semester. The appointment follows the resignation of Teresa Abi‑Nader Dahlberg last week.
Why Pastides was chosen
Pastides brings more than a decade of senior‑level higher‑education experience. He led the University of South Carolina from 2008 to 2019 and returned as interim president from 2021 to 2022. During his 11‑year tenure, the South Carolina system saw record research funding, a nationally recognized Honors College, and a capital campaign that raised over $1 billion. He also deepened partnerships with local businesses and community groups, a skill set the Board of Trustees believes will benefit the Tampa Bay community.
Board of Trustees reaction
“We are proud to welcome a leader of Dr. Pastides’ caliber to the University of Tampa,” said James Eyer, chair of the university’s Board of Trustees. “His remarkable record of presidential leadership, deep commitment to academic excellence, and genuine understanding of what makes universities thrive make him especially well‑suited for this important transition. We are confident he will build on our strong foundation and sustain momentum as we search for a permanent president.”
Pastides’ own remarks
In a statement, Pastides expressed enthusiasm about the new role. “I am honored to join the University of Tampa at such an important moment in its history,” he said. “The university has an impressive legacy, a strong sense of community, and a bright future. I look forward to getting to know its students, faculty, staff, and alumni, and to strengthening relationships throughout the Tampa Bay community. My focus will be on listening, building on the university’s considerable strengths, and working together to sustain its momentum and position it for continued success.”
Academic and athletic credentials
Pastides is a first‑generation college graduate, earning a bachelor’s degree from the State University of New York at Albany and advanced degrees, including a doctorate in epidemiology, from Yale University. Before his presidency at South Carolina, he served as dean of the Arnold School of Public Health and held senior leadership roles in research and health sciences. He also chaired the Southeastern Conference and the NCAA Division I Board of Directors, giving him extensive experience in collegiate athletics governance.
What’s next for UTampa
The university plans a series of meet‑and‑greet events for students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members to welcome Pastides and outline his vision for the interim period. While the Board has not set a firm deadline for selecting a permanent president, it emphasized that the search will continue alongside Pastides’ efforts to maintain academic priorities and community connections.
Local impact
UTampa is a major economic and cultural anchor in Tampa, drawing students from across the nation and contributing to the city’s workforce pipeline. Pastides’ focus on community partnership aligns with the university’s goal of deepening ties with local businesses, nonprofit organizations, and civic leaders, reinforcing Tampa’s reputation as a hub for education and innovation.
Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
