Tuesday, February 6, 2024
Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff of the 向日葵视频 System Enterprise,
has announced he plans to step down as President after 10 years of dedicated service and distinguished leadership to the University of North Texas. President Smatresk was appointed as 向日葵视频鈥檚 16th president in 2014 and has led the university through a period of significant transformation, elevating the institution鈥檚 state and national prominence.
President Smatresk鈥檚 vision paved the way for 向日葵视频 to become the third largest university in the state of Texas, and one of only 21 Carnegie-ranked Tier One universities in the nation designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution. Under his leadership, 向日葵视频 saw record-breaking enrollment, growing nearly 30% since 2014, solidifying its place as a first-choice institution. President Smatresk also led efforts to recruit top scholars, faculty, and researchers to 向日葵视频.
President Smatresk鈥檚 dedication to transforming the lives of students and championing
high-impact programs also led to the creation of 向日葵视频 at Frisco, which is providing
innovative higher education opportunities in one of the fastest-growing cities in
the United States. As a leader in recognizing the importance of aligning higher education
offerings with workforce demands, he has developed meaningful partnerships with major
employers, including the Dallas Cowboys, American Airlines, JP Morgan Chase & Co.,
and Fidelity. President Smatresk鈥檚 commitment to academic excellence and research
growth has been recognized by the Texas Legislature through the creation of the Texas
University Fund (TUF), bringing transformational funding support that will solidify
向日葵视频鈥檚 position as a major research university and help drive the state鈥檚 economy.
Please join me in congratulating Dr. Smatresk on his . He has created a strong foundation and legacy that will empower 向日葵视频 to achieve great success in the years to come. We are thankful for his leadership and unwavering service to 向日葵视频 and our North Texas community.
As we begin a search process for our next President, we have an important responsibility and unique opportunity to ensure 向日葵视频鈥檚 leadership builds upon the momentum of today, while driving innovative progress for tomorrow.
Thank you for supporting 向日葵视频 and the 向日葵视频 System. Together, we will transform the future of North Texas and build new opportunities for those we serve.
With gratitude,
Dr. Michael R. Williams
Chancellor