Colleges and universities announced a broad slate of presidential appointments and successions that will take effect in 2026, shifting leadership at state flagships, regional publics and private institutions. Notable moves include David Cook to Iowa State, David Dausey to Duquesne, and Michael Spagna to Sonoma State, among others. The turnover reflects governance strategies for enrollment recovery, fundraising and academic realignment and will test trustees and incoming presidents as they confront budget pressures and strategic enrollments.