University of Tampa Names Harris Pastides, Ph.D., Interim President

The University of Tampa today announced the appointment of Harris Pastides, Ph.D., president emeritus of the University of South Carolina, as interim president. He will transition into the role during the remainder of the Fall 2026 semester.

A nationally respected higher education leader, Pastides served as president of the University of South Carolina from 2008 to 2019 and returned as interim president from 2021 to 2022. He brings decades of experience advancing academic excellence, student success, research, philanthropy and community partnerships.

His appointment follows the resignation of President Teresa Abi-Nader Dahlberg last week.

“We are proud to welcome a leader of Dr. Pastides’ caliber to the University of Tampa,” said James Eyer, chair of the University’s Board of Trustees. “Harris brings a remarkable record of presidential leadership, a deep commitment to academic excellence and a genuine understanding of what makes universities thrive. His experience, judgment and ability to connect with people make him particularly well-suited to lead UTampa during this important transition. We are confident he will build on the University’s strong foundation and sustain its momentum as we undertake the search for our next president.”

During his 11-year presidency at South Carolina, Pastides led an eight-institution university system through a period of significant academic advancement and growth. The university earned national recognition for its Honors College and academic programs, achieved record levels of research funding and completed a capital campaign that raised more than $1 billion. His leadership also strengthened partnerships with business and community organizations.

“I am honored to join the University of Tampa at such an important moment in its history,” Pastides said. “The University has an impressive legacy, a strong sense of community and a bright future. I look forward to getting to know its students, faculty, staff and alumni, and to strengthening relationships throughout the Tampa Bay community. My focus will be on listening, building on the University’s considerable strengths, and working together to sustain its momentum and position it for continued success.”

A first-generation college graduate, Pastides earned a bachelor's degree from the State University of New York at Albany and advanced degrees from Yale University, including a doctorate in epidemiology. Before becoming president, he served as dean of South Carolina’s Arnold School of Public Health and held senior leadership positions in research and health sciences. He also served as chair of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and the NCAA Division I Board of Directors, bringing to the University of Tampa national experience in collegiate athletics governance.

The University plans to provide opportunities for students, faculty, staff, alumni and members of the Tampa Bay community to meet Pastides as he assumes his new role.