Provost Kathleen Hagerty Announces Departure: What This Means for the Future of Our University

Kathleen Hagerty, Northwestern’s provost, announced she will step down by the end of the academic year. She has been in this role since September 2020 and has spent over forty years at the university.

During her time as provost, Hagerty shaped academic initiatives, improved facilities, and guided the university through challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. “I have felt immense pride in the University and the people who make it special,” she shared. Hagerty is Northwestern’s first woman provost.

In her role, she oversaw schools, libraries, and various academic units. She also managed the university’s budget. Northwestern aims to find a new provost soon, with Hagerty assisting in the transition.

President Henry Bienen praised her as a strong advocate for academics and a trusted colleague. He looks forward to continuing their work together during his interim presidency.

Hagerty’s leadership style has made a lasting impact. Ian Hurd, president of the Faculty Senate, commented that she demonstrated thoughtful leadership during tough times. Hurd noted her ability to combine intelligence and empathy in her decisions.

Hagerty’s academic background is impressive. She has studied securities markets and published in respected journals. Dr. Eric G. Neilson, a vice president at the Feinberg School of Medicine, has seen many provosts in his career and considers Hagerty among the best. “She is first class,” he remarked.

Throughout her tenure, Hagerty attracted top faculty and contributed to significant projects like the soon-to-open Social Sciences and Global Affairs Hub and the Litowitz Center for Enlightened Disagreement.

Jennifer Lackey, director of the Northwestern Prison Education Program, highlighted Hagerty’s courage and vision. Lackey noted that Hagerty’s support helped launch the program as a full degree-granting initiative, a first at a top-tier university.

Hagerty’s tenure included hiring key faculty and responding to federal funding freezes. She has played a crucial role in raising the university’s profile, with its U.S. News ranking now at No. 7.

Dashun Wang, a Kellogg School professor, reflected on her influence: “Few people have had a greater effect on my career than Kathleen.” He emphasized her belief in others and how she motivated them to aim higher.

As Hagerty prepares for the next chapter, her legacy at Northwestern will continue to inspire future leaders. Her emphasis on collaboration, ethical leadership, and academic excellence sets a high standard for her successor.



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