Friday, June 27, 2025
Dear UNT System Community,
It is my pleasure to inform you that Dr. Kirk Calhoun and Dr. Warren von Eschenbach have been named the sole finalists for the UNT Health Science Center and UNT Dallas presidency, respectively, following a unanimous vote by the UNT System Board of Regents.
I want to thank the Board of Regents for their unwavering commitment to the UNT System
in selecting leaders who embody our values and are dedicated to advancing the mission
of our institutions. This decision reflects the pivotal leadership they have demonstrated
as interim presidents. I am confident they will continue to serve with distinction—fostering
academic excellence, driving innovation, and serving the students and communities
entrusted to our care.
“We are pleased to have selected two exceptional sole finalists for UNT Dallas and UNT Health Science Center,” said Board of Regents Chair Laura Wright. “Both have provided sturdy leadership
as interim presidents, demonstrating a deep commitment to student success and a clear
vision for the future of their institutions. The Board is confident in their ability
to advance the mission and impact of these universities.”
Dr. Calhoun brings over 30 years of experience in academic medicine, clinical practice,
and university leadership to UNTHSC. He accepted the role of interim UNTHSC president
in January 2025 after retiring as president of The University of Texas at Tyler in
May 2024. He has led integrated healthcare enterprises at a significant scale, spanning
hospitals, clinics, academic medical practices, and critical community services such
as emergency transport and home health. Dr. Calhoun’s dedication to healthcare, public
health, higher education, and community service led to his induction into the prestigious
Doctor Luke Society in 2021.
Dr. von Eschenbach was appointed interim president of UNT Dallas in April 2024 after
serving as UNT System vice chancellor for academic affairs. Since then, he has led
transformative efforts, launching the university’s first Center for Innovation in
Teaching and Learning, and investing in bold strategies to grow enrollment, advance
student success, and strengthen community impact. He previously served over 15 years
in various leadership roles, most notably as associate vice president and assistant
provost at the University of Notre Dame overseeing the university’s 11 international
locations.
UNTHSC's Dr. Kirk Calhoun
UNT Dallas's Dr. Warren von Eschenbach
The future of UNT System has never been brighter. I want to express my sincerest gratitude to all of our UNT System faculty and staff members for their commitment to helping our system remain one of our state’s finest in higher education. Together, we will continue to place students first in all we do, and I am excited for the promising future that awaits our UNT System community.
With gratitude,
Dr. Michael R. Williams
Chancellor
From UNT System Office of the Chancellor - Announcement