Jennifer Cowley, the first woman president of the University of Texas at Arlington, has announced her plans to step down from her presidency and return to the faculty.
“After much reflection, I feel this is the right time to return to the work that first drew me to higher education,” Dr. Cowley wrote in a letter to the university community. “I have informed [University of Texas System Chancellor John M. Zerwas] of my desire to return to the faculty and devote the next chapter of my career to teaching, research, and service. I remain fully engaged in the work ahead and committed to supporting our students, faculty, staff, and community as Chancellor Zerwas appoints an interim president and UTA moves through this transition.”
Dr. Cowley, a professor of public affairs, began her presidency in 2022, following five years as provost and vice president of academic affairs at the University of North Texas. Earlier in her career, she spent 16 years on the faculty of Ohio State University, where she served in numerous leadership roles, including vice provost for capital planning and regional campuses, associate dean for academic affairs and administration in the College of Engineering, and head of the department of city and regional planning.
An Arlington native, Dr. Cowley earned her bachelor’s degree in political science, a master’s degree in urban planning, and a doctorate in urban and regional science from Texas A&M University. She also holds master’s degrees in public administration and interdisciplinary studies from the University of North Texas.