A broad wave of presidential appointments and interim placements across U.S. colleges was announced this month. Notable moves include Eduardo M. Peñalver’s appointment as president of Georgetown University beginning July 1, 2026, Brad Mortensen’s pending start as president of Utah State University, and Wade Rousse’s selection as president of the Louisiana State University system. The rounds of hires also included permanent and interim choices at a mix of public and private institutions—California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt; Northern Michigan University; Chatham University; and several smaller colleges—reflecting accelerated leadership turnover as campuses confront enrollment volatility, financial stress and political scrutiny. New presidents will inherit urgent operational priorities: stabilizing budgets, defending institutional autonomy, and managing shifting student demographics. Boards and search committees have signaled a preference for leaders with fundraising experience, system management skills and capacity to navigate external pressures.