John M. Zerwas, MD, has officially been named Chancellor of The University of Texas System following the Board of Regents meeting on August 20. Zerwas previously served as Executive Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs since 2019 and was named Interim Chancellor on June 1, 2025.
In a statement regarding his new role and team, Zerwas said: “I’m honored by the extraordinary opportunity granted to me by Chairman Eltife and the entire Board of Regents, and I’m grateful to work with my senior team and all the UT institution presidents as we support the important missions and growth of the campuses. In naming my executive leadership team, I didn’t need to look beyond our own professionals here at the UT System. They are among the most experienced, high performing, ethical and strategic advisors anywhere in higher education.”
The announced executive leadership team includes several continuing members in key positions:
– Archie Holmes, PhD, remains Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. He will continue overseeing academic administration across UT institutions.
– Jonathan Pruitt has taken on responsibilities as Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer earlier this year. He oversees finance, budget divisions, benefits, technology services, real estate, and human resources.
– Julia Rathgeber, JD, will now serve as Deputy Chancellor and Senior Policy Advisor. She provides guidance on policy matters and leads governmental relations efforts.
– Randa Safady, PhD, continues as Vice Chancellor for External Affairs, Communications, and Advancement Services.
– Dan Sharphorn, JD remains Vice Chancellor and General Counsel for legal affairs within the system.
– Stacey Napier, JD serves as General Counsel to the Board of Regents and acts as liaison to the executive leadership team.
Melissa Villarreal García, JD was promoted last month to Senior Associate Vice Chancellor and Chief of Staff to the Chancellor after serving as Associate Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs. She is now advising on operational and management issues.
Zerwas will maintain executive oversight over Health Affairs while David Lakey, MD takes on additional operational duties within that office.
