UW Board of Trustees Initiates Presidential Search Amid Leadership Transition

The University of Wyoming (UW) is embarking on a significant leadership transition as the Board of Trustees initiates a comprehensive search for the institution's next president.

 

This move follows the announcement by President Ed Seidel that he will step down upon the conclusion of his contract on June 30, 2026.

 

President Seidel, who assumed office on July 1, 2020, has been instrumental in advancing UW's mission and vision.

 

Under his leadership, the university achieved Carnegie R1 Research status, launched the School of Computing, and established the Wyoming Innovation Partnership.

 

These initiatives have significantly enhanced UW's academic and research profile.

 

In response to President Seidel's forthcoming departure, the Board of Trustees has outlined a meticulous search process to identify a successor who will continue to propel the university forward.

 

In August 2025, the board announced plans to engage a reputable search firm and appoint a diverse search committee.

 

This committee is tasked with ensuring a thorough and inclusive selection process.

 

By September 2025, a 17-member search committee was appointed, representing a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including trustees, faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community leaders.

 

The committee is chaired by Trustee Carol Linton of Alpine.

 

To gather comprehensive input on the desired qualifications and characteristics of the next president, the university conducted multiple listening sessions and surveys throughout early October 2025.

 

These sessions provided a platform for faculty, staff, students, and the public to voice their perspectives and expectations.

 

The search committee, in collaboration with the selected search firm, is expected to identify a pool of top candidates by January 2026.

 

Initial interviews will be conducted via virtual platforms, narrowing the field to approximately six candidates for in-person interviews by the trustees.

 

Subsequently, three finalists will be invited for on-campus meetings and public presentations, with the final selection anticipated by late March or early April 2026.

 

This timeline ensures a seamless transition and allows the incoming president to assume duties by July 1, 2026.

 

The Board of Trustees emphasizes the importance of this search, recognizing the pivotal role the president plays in shaping the university's future.

 

Chairman Kermit Brown stated, "Hiring the university’s next president is of utmost importance to the board. We are developing a process to attract a pool of candidates of the highest quality possible—and involve UW’s key constituencies in reviewing the candidates and making recommendations to the board."

 

As the state's sole public university, UW holds a unique position in providing comprehensive education, research, and outreach.

 

With over 10,500 students and more than 2,800 faculty and staff, the university offers 200 programs of study.

 

Its main campus in Laramie, nestled between the Medicine Bow and Laramie mountain ranges, provides a picturesque setting for academic pursuits.

 

Additionally, UW maintains a presence across Wyoming through the UW-Casper campus and Agricultural Extension Offices in all 23 counties and the Wind River Indian Reservation.

 

The university's strong partnerships with Wyoming's community colleges and economic development groups further enhance its statewide impact.

 

As the presidential search progresses, the university community and stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed and engaged.

 

Regular updates and opportunities for input will be provided to ensure a transparent and inclusive process.

 

The selection of a new president marks a significant milestone in UW's history, promising continued growth and excellence in serving the educational needs of Wyoming and beyond.

 

For more information and updates on the presidential search, please visit the university's official channels.

 

Engagement from the UW community and the public is vital in selecting a leader who will uphold and advance the university's mission and values.