News Summary
The University of Texas System Board of Regents has appointed Jim Davis as the new president of UT Austin. With a salary of $1.25 million, Davis is set to bring a non-traditional academic approach to the role, focusing on innovative leadership strategies and community engagement. This pivotal appointment follows the tenure of Jay Hartzell and aims to enhance the university’s academic reputation and student experience.
UT Austin Appoints Jim Davis as New University President
Former Deputy Attorney General’s Leadership Marks a New Era
Houston, TX — The University of Texas System Board of Regents has approved the appointment of Jim Davis as the new president of the University of Texas at Austin, reflecting a strategic choice aimed at strengthening the university’s leadership. With a substantial annual salary of $1.25 million and a unique background in law and operations, Davis’s leadership is anticipated to steer UT Austin toward greater academic and community impact.
Davis brings a distinctive perspective to the role, being the first president in 126 years without a traditional academic background. This appointment is a pivotal moment for UT Austin as it transitions towards innovative leadership strategies. The focus now shifts to maintaining institutional excellence while enhancing the educational experience for students and faculty alike.
Compensation Package Highlights
Jim Davis’s compensation package is significant within the academic landscape. His $1.25 million salary places him among the highest-paid university presidents nationwide, slightly below that of his predecessor, who earned $1.45 million in 2024. Notably, Davis’s earnings exceed those of the UT System Chancellor, who will earn $975,000.
Tenure and Academic Role
In addition to his presidential duties, Davis will hold tenure at the UT School of Law and the William B. Bates Chair for the Administration of Justice. This dual role emphasizes the importance of integrating leadership within academic frameworks. Although he will not draw a professor’s salary while serving as president, upon returning to faculty, he will be compensated at the average rate of the top three law professors at UT.
Background and Experience
Before stepping into this leadership role, Jim Davis served as the deputy attorney general and has extensive experience as UT Austin’s chief operations officer and vice president of legal affairs. His deep involvement in legal and operational matters equips him with the skills necessary to navigate complex challenges facing higher education today.
Leadership Transition
Davis succeeds Jay Hartzell, who led UT Austin from 2020 until his departure to Southern Methodist University in early 2025. This leadership change marks an opportunity for the university to pivot toward new strategies for growth, improving student outcomes, and engaging with the broader Texas community.
The Community Impact
The appointment of Jim Davis is poised to create a ripple effect within Houston’s higher education landscape, as it prioritizes attracting talent and enhancing the university’s academic reputation. With a focused vision for institutional excellence, Davis’s leadership will be instrumental in fostering a vibrant community that encourages collaboration, innovation, and student engagement.
Conclusion
In summary, Jim Davis’s appointment as president of the University of Texas at Austin symbolizes a significant move towards modernizing academic leadership. The $1.25 million annual salary, along with his strategic plans, affirms the university’s commitment to fostering an environment of innovation and academic rigor. As Houston’s higher education landscape evolves, Davis’s leadership is expected to pave the way for enriching opportunities for students and the community alike.
Table: Key Features of Jim Davis’s Appointment as UT Austin President
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Annual Salary | $1.25 million |
| Tenure Position | UT School of Law and William B. Bates Chair for the Administration of Justice |
| Predecessor’s Salary | $1.45 million in 2024 |
| Professional Background | Deputy Attorney General under Ken Paxton, UT Austin’s Chief Operations Officer, and Vice President of Legal Affairs |
| Predecessor’s Departure | Jay Hartzell left in early 2025 to lead Southern Methodist University |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Jim Davis’s annual salary as UT Austin’s president?
Jim Davis’s annual salary is $1.25 million, as approved by the University of Texas System Board of Regents.
Does Jim Davis hold any academic positions at UT Austin?
Yes, Jim Davis holds tenure at the UT School of Law and the William B. Bates Chair for the Administration of Justice.
What was the salary of Jim Davis’s predecessor, Jay Hartzell?
Jay Hartzell earned a total of $1.45 million in 2024 as UT Austin’s president.
What is Jim Davis’s professional background?
Jim Davis previously served as the deputy attorney general under Ken Paxton and as UT Austin’s chief operations officer and vice president of legal affairs.
When did Jay Hartzell leave his position as UT Austin’s president?
Jay Hartzell departed from his role as UT Austin’s president in early 2025 to lead Southern Methodist University.
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Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
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