NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J., July 2, 2025 — Rutgers University has officially welcomed William F. Tate IV as its 22nd president, initiating a new chapter in the institution’s storied history. Concurrent with this leadership transition, Amy L. Towers has been re-elected to a second one-year term as Chair of the Board of Governors, while James F. Dougherty assumes the role of Vice Chair. These appointments, effective July 1, 2025, signal a concerted effort to steer Rutgers toward continued excellence in education, research, and public service.
President Tate brings a wealth of experience to Rutgers, having previously served as the president of the Louisiana State University (LSU) system since May 2021. His tenure at LSU was marked by significant achievements, including securing substantial philanthropic support and championing initiatives aimed at enhancing diversity and inclusion. Tate’s academic credentials are equally impressive, with faculty appointments in sociology, psychiatry, behavioral medicine, epidemiology, and public health across multiple institutions. His interdisciplinary expertise positions him well to lead Rutgers’ multifaceted academic and research endeavors.
The selection of Tate followed a comprehensive national search led by a 20-member committee co-chaired by Amy L. Towers and Alberto Cuitiño, Dean of the School of Engineering. The committee sought a transformative leader capable of uniting Rutgers’ diverse campuses and communities under a shared vision of innovation and impact. Tate’s appointment was unanimously approved by the Rutgers Board of Governors and the Board of Trustees on May 19, 2025.
In his inaugural address, Tate emphasized the importance of collaboration and inclusivity in achieving Rutgers’ mission. “Together, we have an opportunity to align our efforts and push to greater levels of impact,” he stated. “We can compete and win at new heights if we work together.”
Amy L. Towers, re-elected as Chair of the Board of Governors, has been a pivotal figure in Rutgers’ governance since her appointment by Governor Phil Murphy in 2020. Her leadership roles extend beyond the university, including founding The Nduna Foundation, which focuses on global health and human rights initiatives. Towers has also served on numerous nonprofit boards, such as UNICEF and the CDC Foundation, reflecting her commitment to public service and philanthropy.
Expressing gratitude for her re-election, Towers remarked, “I am honored to continue to serve as chair for a second year, especially knowing the esteemed colleagues I serve with. I firmly believe that Rutgers is on a strong and exciting trajectory for the future, with the impressive faculty, staff, and brilliant students creating a successful Rutgers community.”
James F. Dougherty, stepping into the role of Vice Chair, brings extensive experience in university governance. A Rutgers alumnus and retired veterinary internist, Dougherty has served on the Board of Trustees since 2012 and joined the Board of Governors in 2020. His contributions include chairing the Rutgers-Camden Board of Directors and participating in various advisory councils. Dougherty’s philanthropic efforts have supported scholarships and endowed professorships, underscoring his dedication to the university’s advancement.
“I am honored and humbled to be able to continue to serve my alma mater in this leadership role,” Dougherty said. “I am also excited to join our esteemed chair, Amy Towers, as she continues her exemplary leadership of this board, and our new president, Dr. William F. Tate IV, as he begins his tenure leading Rutgers University.”
The new leadership team faces the challenge of navigating a complex higher education landscape, marked by evolving funding models, technological advancements, and shifting societal expectations. However, with a shared commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and inclusive growth, Rutgers is poised to strengthen its position as a leading public research institution.
As Rutgers embarks on this new era, the collaborative efforts of President Tate, Chair Towers, and Vice Chair Dougherty are expected to drive strategic initiatives that enhance the university’s impact locally and globally. Their combined expertise and vision aim to foster an environment where innovation thrives, and students are empowered to become leaders in their respective fields.
