Tampa, Fla. – The University of Tampa announced Friday that President Teresa Abi‑Nader Dahlberg will resign after the Fall 2026 semester. University officials said Dahlberg’s departure is for “personal reasons,” and that the Fall term will be her final semester in office.

Board of Trustees acknowledges her contributions

The Board released a statement thanking Dahlberg for her “leadership, service, and dedication” to the university. The statement highlighted her role in strengthening the institution’s strategic and financial foundation and engaging the community in planning for the university’s future. “We appreciate her contributions and wish her and her family every happiness in their next chapter,” the Board added.

Dahlberg’s own reflections

In a personal message, Dahlberg described her tenure as “an honor” and expressed gratitude to university stakeholders, staff, and administration for their “talent, dedication, and hard work.” She noted that together they have built a strong foundation as the university approaches its centennial celebration.

Search for a new president underway

The university confirmed that the executive‑search firm AGB, which specializes in higher‑education leadership placements, has been retained to lead the nationwide search for a permanent successor. Officials said the search process is already in motion and that interim leadership will be provided by existing senior executives to ensure continuity of day‑to‑day operations.

Impact on the campus community

Students, faculty, and alumni have responded with a mix of gratitude for Dahlberg’s service and curiosity about the next chapter for UTampa. Many have praised her focus on student success and the strategic initiatives launched during her tenure, including new scholarship programs and expanded community‑engagement efforts.

What comes next for UTampa

With the university’s centennial approaching, the Board and senior leadership emphasized that the transition will not disrupt ongoing projects or academic programs. The search firm will present a slate of candidates later this year, and the Board expects to make a final selection before the start of the 2027 academic year.

For more information about the presidential search or to submit nominations, members of the university community are encouraged to contact the Office of the President.

Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.