Austin, Texas, August 21, 2025
News Summary
John Zerwas has been appointed as the new chancellor of the University of Texas System, succeeding J.B. Milliken. With extensive experience as a physician and politician, Zerwas commits to tackling challenges in Texas higher education through innovation and collaboration. His leadership style focuses on supporting university presidents. Also appointed is James Davis as president of the University of Texas at Austin. Zerwas’s past work in healthcare and higher education positions him well for this role.
John Zerwas Appointed as New Chancellor of the University of Texas System
Austin, Texas — John Zerwas has been named the new chancellor of the University of Texas System, succeeding J.B. Milliken, who departed in May. The Board of Regents made the official appointment following a 21-day waiting period after Zerwas was announced as the sole finalist in late July.
Zerwas, 70, brings a rich and diverse background to the position, including experience as an anesthesiologist, a seven-term Republican state representative, and the executive vice chancellor for health affairs within the University of Texas System. He has served as the interim chancellor since June 2023.
In this new role, Zerwas sees himself reaching the “capstone” of his career in higher education. He is committed to addressing the various challenges facing Texas higher education through resilience and innovation. Emphasizing the importance of an adaptive approach, Zerwas believes that the University of Texas System has the capacity to navigate the ongoing changes within the sector.
Leadership Style and Goals
Zerwas has advocated for collaborative leadership within the UT System, highlighting a dedication to support university presidents rather than placing hurdles in their way. He describes his leadership style as “servant leadership,” indicating a focus on working tirelessly for the benefit of the institution.
He views higher education as a vital pathway for socio-economic advancement, underscoring the need for innovation to meet current demands. Meanwhile, Zerwas remains cognizant of potential challenges, including political pressures in education and a decrease in federal funding for research and programs.
Background and Achievements
Zerwas has garnered respect for his capabilities as a lawmaker and his commitment to public service throughout his legislative career. Honored by Texas Monthly as one of the best lawmakers in 2011, he chaired the House Higher Education Committee in 2015 and the appropriations committee in 2017, championing initiatives for education and healthcare funding.
Alongside the appointment of Zerwas as chancellor, James Davis has been appointed as the next president of the University of Texas at Austin. The board utilized a committee comprising various stakeholders to make these decisions rather than conducting a national search, underscoring a focus on local leadership.
Personal Insights
Outside of his professional responsibilities, Zerwas values family time significantly. He also engages in daily activism through wearing bracelets for brain cancer awareness, honoring his late wife, Cindy, who passed away from the illness.
Kevin Eltife, the chairman of the UT System Board of Regents, acknowledged Zerwas as a dedicated public servant with a proven leadership track record. As he steps into the role of chancellor, Zerwas’s commitment to the betterment and future of higher education remains at the forefront of his agenda.
Conclusion
John Zerwas’s appointment brings a wealth of experience and a focused vision to the University of Texas System. As he assumes his new role, stakeholders and students alike are anticipated to benefit from his governance style and dedication to the institution’s mission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is John Zerwas?
John Zerwas is a physician, former Texas state representative, and the new chancellor of the University of Texas System. He has served as the interim chancellor since June 2023.
What does Zerwas plan to achieve as chancellor?
Zerwas aims to address challenges in higher education in Texas through resilience, innovation, and collaboration, emphasizing the importance of higher education for socio-economic advancement.
What is Zerwas’s background?
Before his appointment, Zerwas served as an anesthesiologist, a member of the Texas House of Representatives for seven terms, and the executive vice chancellor for health affairs at the UT System.
Who else was appointed alongside Zerwas?
Along with John Zerwas, James Davis has been appointed as the president of the University of Texas at Austin.
Key Features of John Zerwas’s Appointment
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Title | Chancellor of the University of Texas System |
| Background | Anesthesiologist, former Texas state representative, executive vice chancellor for health affairs |
| Leadership Style | Servant leadership focused on collaboration and supporting university presidents |
| Goals | Address challenges in higher education through resilience and innovation |
| Appointed Date | August 2023 |
| Other Appointments | James Davis as President of the University of Texas at Austin |
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Additional Resources
- Austin American-Statesman
- Houston Chronicle
- The Daily Texan
- KVUE
- KXAN
- Wikipedia: John Zerwas
- Google Search: John Zerwas chancellor University of Texas
- Google Scholar: John Zerwas
- Encyclopedia Britannica: John Zerwas
- Google News: John Zerwas
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