Yale University has appointed Maurie McInnis, PhD, as its 24th president, making her the first permanent female president in the institution’s history. McInnis, who currently leads Stony Brook University as president, was the unanimous choice of the Yale Board of Trustees. Josh Bekenstein, the senior trustee and chair of the presidential search committee, announced her appointment, praising her as a “compelling leader, distinguished scholar, and devoted educator.” She will begin her tenure at Tale on July 1.
McInnis, a cultural historian, has had a notable career in academia, including significant roles at the University of Virginia and the University of Texas at Austin. She has also written several books which focus on the injustices of slavery in the 19th century American South.
Following her appointment, McInnis announced her commitment to maintaining a diverse campus environment at Yale despite the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling against race-conscious admission last year. This sentiment is echoed by several of McInnis’ colleagues, including State University of New York system Chancellor Josh King, who noted her goals of making college education available to students of all backgrounds.
“Maurie’s commitment to advancing academic excellence, ensuring diversity and inclusion, and supporting outstanding faculty in doing their best teaching and research make her a phenomenal choice to lead Yale University,” King said. “As a Yale alum, I am particularly excited about the impact Maurie’s passion for serving Pell-eligible students and increasing social mobility will have on the institution’s future.”
McInnis’ appointment comes after a long search process that began last fall following Peter Salovey’s departure, which left the university without a permanent president during a tumultuous academic year. This period saw pro-Palestinian campus protests and challenges related to the rollout of the new FAFSA forms.
