Last month, the higher education sector experienced notable leadership changes as at least four college presidents departed abruptly, reflecting the increasing pressures on campus leadership. Among them, Mark Welsh resigned from Texas A&M University following political controversy over a gender identity curriculum, despite initial compliance with demands to fire a professor. Michael Schill stepped down as Northwestern University’s president amid prolonged federal scrutiny of campus protests and disciplinary actions. Andrés Acebo was appointed permanent president of New Jersey City University after serving as interim since early 2023. These changes underscore the heightened political and societal challenges facing university presidents, influencing governance and institutional stability.