UF Board of Trustees Appoints Dr. Donald W. Landry as Interim President

GAINESVILLE, Fla. - The University of Florida Board of Trustees voted unanimously today, August 25, 2025, to appoint Dr. Donald W. Landry as interim president of the University of Florida, effective September 1, 2025.

Dr. Landry, the Hamilton Southworth Professor of Medicine at Columbia University and past Chair of its Department of Medicine, brings to UF a distinguished record in medical research and academic leadership. A recipient of the Presidential Citizens Medal, he currently serves as President of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and is renowned for pioneering work in artificial enzyme design and stem cell ethics.

Speaking before the Board on August 25, Landry emphasized that “academic excellence is under threat,” calling for renewed focus on truth and the rights to learn and teach alongside freedom of speech. UF Board of Trustees Chair Mori Hosseini praised Landry for “exceptional leadership in academia and beyond,” expressing confidence that he will “serve the students, faculty and people of the great state of Florida” with integrity and innovation.

Landry’s appointment, which must be confirmed by Florida’s Board of Governors at its September 10-11 meeting, fills the interim leadership role as the search for a permanent president continues. Interim President Kent Fuchs will conclude his extended tenure on September 1, capping an eight-year presidency that saw UF ascend to national prominence.

Under Landry’s stewardship, Columbia’s Department of Medicine quadrupled philanthropic support, tripled NIH funding, and doubled faculty size, solidifying its status among the nation’s top medical programs. His research contributions-ranging from an artificial enzyme to degrade cocaine to identifying vasopressin deficiency in shock states-have reshaped intensive care practices and drug discovery paradigms worldwide.

The Board of Governors’ impending vote will determine whether Landry’s interim term, slated to last until a permanent president is appointed in 2026, receives final approval.