Welcoming a New President

Jennifer Evans-Cowley, an accomplished educator and administrator, became president of UTA on April 1 after a national search.

Dr. Cowley was provost and vice president for academic affairs at the University of North Texas prior to assuming the presidency at UTA. There, she launched a strategic effort in 2017 that increased graduation rates and headed a collaborative group to help faculty better engage in UNT's research mission. She spent nearly two decades at The Ohio State University, serving at various points as vice provost for capital planning and regional campuses, associate dean for academic affairs and administration in the College of Engineering, and department chair and professor in City and Regional Planning.

"Dr. Cowley is an accomplished leader in academia, research, and industry partnerships, and her experiences align well with UT Arlington's mission and growth aspirations," UT System Regents Chairman Kevin P. Eltife says. "Throughout her career, she has remained focused on student success, faculty collaborations, and external partnerships—all essential elements needed to advance a top public research university."

Cowley holds a bachelor's degree in political science and master's degree in urban planning and doctorate in urban and regional science from Texas A&M University. In addition, she earned master's degrees in public administration and interdisciplinary studies from UNT.

Cowley grew up in Arlington attending summer camps and classes at UTA. She has taught an annual professional development workshop at UTA for the last decade.