Northwestern celebrates 22 years as a top Fulbright producer
February 4, 2026
The Presidential Search Committee released the position description for Northwestern University’s 18th president as the search moves into its next phase.
Over the past few months, the committee conducted extensive engagement efforts across the University community, using that input to develop a position profile that outlines the leadership qualities and priorities the community hopes to see in the next president. Fifteen listening sessions were held across a wide range of stakeholder groups, drawing more than 500 participants. These conversations were further supplemented by written submissions and nominations through the presidential search website, further broadening opportunities and formats for collecting input into this important process.
Themes that underscore Northwestern values
Throughout this engagement period, themes emerged that underscored the community’s commitment to academic excellence, competitive vision, clear communication and collaborative leadership, and a culture of shared ambition and belonging. Stakeholders expressed interest in a president who will advance these values and lead Northwestern with ambition and decisiveness.
“Across our listening sessions, we heard a strong collective sense of vision and pride in Northwestern and enthusiasm for our future. The Search Committee is deeply appreciative of the time, candor and perspectives shared by members of the University community,” said Presidential Search Committee Chair Steve Cahillane. “The University requires a president who understands this ambition deeply — an individual capable of upholding our values, exercising sound judgment in complex moments, and providing steady, forward-looking leadership as Northwestern enters its next chapter.”
As the committee synthesized feedback from across the community, comments also reinforced the desire for a president who will champion the University’s academic mission and engage thoughtfully with its scholarly community.
“Northwestern’s distinction rests not only in the exceptional strength of its individual disciplines but also in its unique culture of collaboration and shared commitment to learning and impact that unites all of us,” said Susan Quaggin, Department of Medicine chair and member of the Presidential Search Committee. “Our next president must recognize and nurture that commitment — someone who engages thoughtfully with faculty, students and staff, and who appreciates the intellectual rigor and our community’s purpose, which advance the University’s mission.”
The position description reflects many of the values, aspirations and priorities expressed consistently across these engagement opportunities. Beyond shaping the description itself, the insights gathered will continue to inform the candidate selection and, ultimately, the incoming president.
Next steps in the search process
With the position description complete, the committee now turns its attention to reviewing and identifying candidates from the pool of nominations and other recruitment efforts. The next phases include:
- Evaluation and selection of candidates for interviews
- Conducting interviews
- Recommending a final candidate to the Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees holds the ultimate responsibility for electing the University’s next president — one of its most important duties.
The committee also emphasized the importance of confidentiality as the search moves into more sensitive stages. Protecting the identities of candidates is standard practice for peer institutions and ensures that Northwestern can attract the strongest possible pool of leaders.
The presidential search will be driven in a deliberate and comprehensive way prioritizing the best result over any specific timeline.
The committee continues to welcome input and nominations throughout the search process. Community members are encouraged to share perspectives and suggest candidates through the presidential search website.
