Georgetown University has officially named Eduardo M. Peñalver as its 49th president. The announcement from the university's board of directors confirms that Peñalver, who currently serves as the president of Seattle University, will assume his new role on July 1.
The appointment follows a comprehensive search to find a successor for longtime president John J. DeGioia, who stepped down in November to focus on his recovery from a stroke. Robert M. Groves, who has been leading the institution as interim president, will continue in his capacity until the official transition this summer.
Key Takeaways
- Eduardo M. Peñalver has been appointed the 49th president of Georgetown University.
- He will transition from his current role as president of Seattle University, another Jesuit institution.
- Peñalver will officially begin his presidency on July 1, succeeding John J. DeGioia.
- Robert M. Groves will continue to serve as interim president until the transition is complete.
A New Chapter for Georgetown
The selection of Eduardo M. Peñalver marks a significant moment for Georgetown University. The board of directors concluded its search by choosing a leader with direct experience heading a fellow Jesuit institution, signaling a commitment to maintaining the university's core identity and values.
Peñalver's tenure at Seattle University has been noted for its focus on academic excellence and community engagement. His background is expected to align closely with Georgetown's mission of educating students for a life of service and leadership. The move represents a transition from one established leader to another with a proven track record in higher education administration.
The Presidential Search Process
The search for Georgetown's next president began after John J. DeGioia, one of the longest-serving presidents in the university's history, announced his decision to step down for health reasons. The board of directors initiated a formal process to identify candidates capable of guiding the prestigious university into its next phase.
The selection committee considered numerous candidates, ultimately finding Peñalver's combination of academic credentials and leadership experience at a Jesuit university to be the ideal fit for Georgetown's future. The decision was made to ensure a seamless continuation of the university's strategic goals while introducing fresh perspectives.
The Significance of Jesuit Leadership
Georgetown University is the oldest Catholic and Jesuit institution of higher learning in the United States. The appointment of a president from another Jesuit university like Seattle University is significant. It reinforces the shared values of intellectual inquiry, social justice, and service that are central to Jesuit education worldwide. This shared background ensures a deep understanding of the university's foundational principles from day one.
Profile of the Incoming President
Eduardo M. Peñalver brings a distinguished academic and administrative background to his new role at Georgetown. Before becoming president of Seattle University, he served as the Allan R. Tessler Dean of Cornell Law School, where he was also a professor of law. His expertise is in property and land use law, with a focus on themes of social justice and community.
His academic journey is equally impressive. Peñalver is a Rhodes Scholar and a graduate of Cornell University and Yale Law School. His scholarly work is widely published, and he is recognized as a leading voice in his field. This strong academic foundation is a key asset for a research-intensive institution like Georgetown.
Peñalver's Academic Credentials
- Education: B.A. from Cornell University, M.A. from the University of Oxford (as a Rhodes Scholar), and J.D. from Yale Law School.
- Previous Roles: President of Seattle University, Dean of Cornell Law School.
- Legal Experience: Clerked for Judge Guido Calabresi of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit and for Justice John Paul Stevens of the U.S. Supreme Court.
Managing a Smooth Leadership Transition
The transition in leadership comes at a pivotal time for the university. John J. DeGioia's long presidency saw Georgetown expand its global footprint and strengthen its academic programs. His departure for health reasons created a void that required careful management.
Robert M. Groves, a respected academic and Georgetown's provost, stepped in as interim president last November. His stewardship has provided stability during the search process. Groves will work closely with Peñalver to ensure a smooth handover of responsibilities leading up to the July 1 start date.
Continuity and Future Direction
The university community has expressed optimism about the appointment. Peñalver is seen as a leader who can build upon the successes of the DeGioia era while also navigating the evolving challenges facing higher education. These challenges include adapting to new technologies, ensuring affordability and access, and fostering an inclusive campus environment.
In a statement, the board of directors often highlights the importance of finding a leader who embodies the institution's values. Peñalver's career reflects a commitment to both intellectual rigor and ethical leadership, qualities that are central to Georgetown's identity.
As he prepares to take the helm, Peñalver will be responsible for setting the strategic direction for the university. This includes overseeing its various schools, managing its significant endowment, and representing Georgetown on the national and global stage. His experience at Seattle University provides a solid foundation for addressing these complex responsibilities.
The official start of his presidency on July 1 will be closely watched by students, faculty, alumni, and the broader academic world as Georgetown University begins its next chapter under new leadership.
