University of Tampa names interim president after leadership change

The University of Tampa has appointed Harris Pastides as its interim president. He assumes the role following the resignation of Teresa Abi-Nader Dahlberg. Pastides, who previously served as the long-time president of the University of South Carolina, will lead the institution during the remaining weeks of the fall semester.

The appointment is temporary. University officials stated they are currently searching for a permanent president to replace Pastides when his interim period concludes. His primary objective for this short tenure is to stabilize leadership while the search for a permanent head continues. He plans to focus on internal communication and maintaining institutional momentum.

Pastides brings a lengthy resume of higher education administration. He held the position of president at the University of South Carolina from 2008 to 2019. He returned to that same institution as an interim president from 2021 to 2022. During his earlier tenure in Columbia, South Carolina, the university completed a major fundraising campaign that raised more than one billion dollars.

“My focus will be on listening, building on the university’s considerable strengths and working together to sustain its momentum and position it for continued success,” Pastides said regarding his new role.

The change in leadership coincides with a period of active community engagement for local universities. While the University of Tampa manages its transition, other nearby institutions are focusing on student recognition and service. Saint Leo University recently announced a series of events to honor veterans and military families as part of National Veterans and Military Families Month.

Saint Leo University’s Office of Military Affairs and Services is hosting two key events this month. The Veterans Appreciation Month Opening Ceremony is scheduled for November 5. It will take place from 11 a.m. to noon in the Student Community Center boardrooms. Master Sgt. Frank Hernandez, a retired U.S. Air Force officer, will deliver the keynote address at the reception.

A fifth annual chili cook-off will follow on November 18. The event runs from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Student Activities Building Loggia. Participants will taste various recipes and vote for their favorites. President Jim Burkee noted that the university has a long tradition of supporting those who serve the country and their families. He emphasized that these gatherings allow the school to express gratitude to military-connected students, alumni, and employees.