A Message from Bill Hardgrave

November 18, 2021

Dear University of Memphis Faculty, Staff, Students and Community:

I am honored to write to you today to share my gratitude and excitement for being named the 13th President of the University of Memphis. As a native of Arkansas, I have always been familiar with our great University, and I have enjoyed watching it grow as one of the two flagship institutions in the State of Tennessee.

The UofM has made tremendous strides in the past eight years under the outstanding leadership of President Rudd and the hard work and dedication of our faculty, staff, students and alumni. The support from the State and the Memphis community, along with the formation of the Board of Trustees in March 2017, all played a vital role in the transformation of the University. I want to thank President Rudd for his remarkable leadership while pushing this great University to new heights. He sets a high standard to follow and shows us all what “Driven by Doing” truly means.

As I stated in my introductory press conference, I heard from many people throughout the interview process about the desire to be among the top tier universities academically, in research and in athletics. In the coming months, I look forward to learning more about our opportunities for, and challenges to, taking our place among the country’s best universities. One thing is certain, though, our diverse and inclusive environment is among our greatest strengths. 

I am going to do everything possible to ensure we continue our commitment to being a national leader in providing opportunities and a welcoming environment for all. I have started meeting with campus and community leaders who have stressed how vital diversity is to us, and I look forward to continuing this important work. 

Although my official start date will be in the Spring 2022 semester, I have already started working to continue this institution’s impressive trajectory. I am excited to begin working with all of you and to becoming a part of this great UofM community.

Go Tigers Go!

Bill Hardgrave
13th President of the University of Memphis