Denton, TX — The University of North Texas (UNT) System Board of Regents has announced Dr. Harrison Keller as the sole finalist for the position of president of the University of North Texas. Dr. Keller, who has served as the commissioner and chief executive officer of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board since 2019, is set to succeed Dr. Neal Smatresk, who has led UNT since 2014.
Dr. Keller will become the 17th president in the university’s history. The announcement follows a comprehensive national search for a new leader to guide Texas’ third-largest institution of higher education. Chancellor Michael R. Williams praised Dr. Keller’s extensive experience in higher education, citing his leadership and innovation in transforming Texas higher education as key assets that will benefit UNT.
“Harrison Keller has spent his career committed to improving Texas higher education,” said Chancellor Williams. “His ability to lead, innovate, and partner both statewide and nationally has helped transform Texas higher education and will have an invaluable impact on UNT. We’re confident Dr. Keller has the breadth of experience and strategic vision to advance UNT into its next tier of success.”
Dr. Keller expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, highlighting UNT’s unique position and potential for growth. “I am honored and excited by the opportunity to lead this remarkable university,” he said. “For the Dallas-Fort Worth area and across the state, UNT is uniquely positioned to expand opportunities through innovative, excellent programs and strategic partnerships.”
The UNT Presidential Search Advisory Committee, led by Board of Regents Chair Laura Wright and Vice Chair Chancellor Williams, conducted the search. The committee included representatives from the Board of Regents, UNT faculty, staff, students, administrators, and alumni, and hosted listening sessions to gather input from various stakeholders. Chair Wright emphasized the committee’s focus on finding a leader committed to student success, academic excellence, and research growth.
“From the beginning of our search, we set out to identify a leader who could build strategic partnerships, recruit world-class talent, and advance the institution’s role in meeting the demands of our region, state, and nation,” said Chair Wright. “I believe Dr. Keller is the best leader to help us achieve our ambitious goals.”
Under state law, university governing boards must name a sole finalist for a presidency at least 21 days before making a permanent appointment. The Board of Regents is expected to finalize its selection the week of July 1.
Dr. Keller, a sixth-generation Texan, brings over 25 years of experience in state budget and policy, university administration, and coalition-building in higher education. He has spearheaded major initiatives, including the strategic plan Building a Talent Strong Texas, and has been a key figure in advancing student financial aid, transfer education, and workforce development in Texas.
He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Notre Dame and a master’s and Ph.D. in philosophy from Georgetown University. Dr. Keller resides in Austin with his wife, Gena Nivens Keller, and their three children.