Several colleges and universities announced presidential appointments across public and private institutions ahead of 2026 academic cycles. Notable transitions include David Cook named president of Iowa State University, Laurel Bongiorno set to lead Hartwick College, and Michael Spagna selected as Sonoma State president, among others. The appointments span community colleges, regional public universities and private colleges. The turnover comes as institutions confront fiscal pressures, enrollment shifts and heightened external scrutiny—factors that will test new leaders’ abilities to steward budgets, advance enrollment strategy and defend academic autonomy. Boards said they sought leaders with operational experience and track records of fundraising and shared‑governance collaboration.