Dr. Carol Folt, the president of the University of Southern California, plans to retire after the current academic year on July 1, 2025, following a tenure marked by significant initiatives and controversy. Folt, who took office in 2019 amid a tumultuous period for the university, expressed her excitement for a “next big leap” and the opportunity to pass leadership onto a new president, as per
ABC7
. Folt’s career spanned over two decades, with leadership roles at three major universities including UNC-Chapel Hill and Dartmouth College.
During her presidency at USC, Folt faced criticism, particularly from the aftermath of pro-Palestinian protests on the campus in the spring, a challenge that brought her leadership decisions into the spotlight, her handling led to the cancellation of the main graduation ceremony for the class of 2024,
NBC Los Angeles
detailed. Despite the pushback, the Board of Trustees extended Folt’s contract this past summer, though details of the extension were not disclosed.
Folt leaves behind a legacy that includes a focus on sustainability through landmark clean energy deals with LADWP and significant investment in academic programs such as the School of Advanced Computing established with the Viterbi School of Engineering. The Board of Trustees, with Chair Suzanne Nora Johnson expressing deep appreciation for Folt, confirmed that she will remain a part of the USC community as a tenured faculty member, noted the same
NBC Los Angeles
report.
The announcement comes amidst a backdrop of other controversies including a college admissions scandal and the criminal case involving campus gynecologist George Tyndall. Folt’s tenure saw a $1 billion investment in various key initiatives like USC’s new School of Advanced Computing and “Athletics Reimagined,” notwithstanding the debacle of pro-Palestinian campus protests and encampment at Alumni Park which led to 93 arrests following a law enforcement operation, as detailed by
CBS News
.
”I am enthusiastic about exploring opportunities ahead as a tenured faculty member. For the next nine months, however, my team and I will be laser-focused on the business of running this great university and ensuring a seamless transition for the new president. And when Commencement comes in May, I will proudly salute our new graduates with an eye to the future and a heart filled with gratitude,” Folt Said, in a statement obtained by
KTLA
.
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