Jonathan Levin appointed as Stanford University's 13th president

Jonathan Levin, a distinguished economist and dean of the Stanford Graduate School of Business, has been named the next president of Stanford University, effective August 1, 2024. The announcement was made by the Board of Trustees, following a unanimous decision by the search committee and trustees. Jerry Yang, Chair of the Board of Trustees, praised Levin for his deep understanding and affection for Stanford, his record of academic and leadership achievements, and his capacity to address complex strategic issues with a collaborative and optimistic approach.

Levin, who has been a part of the Stanford faculty since 2000 and holds the position of Philip H. Knight Professor, is known for his contributions to the fields of industrial organization and market design. His extensive research has covered topics such as incentive contracts, auctions, and marketplaces, e-commerce, and consumer lending. He has also played a significant role in public service, including serving on President Biden’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology.

Expressing gratitude for his appointment, Levin shared his aspirations for Stanford's future, emphasizing the university's commitment to academic excellence, openness, and contribution to global knowledge and welfare.

“As I look to Stanford’s future, I’m excited to strengthen our commitment to academic excellence and freedom; to foster the principles of openness, curiosity, and mutual respect; and to lead our faculty and students as they advance knowledge and seek to contribute in meaningful ways to the world,” he said.

Levin's academic journey began at Stanford, where he completed his BA in English and BS in Mathematics, followed by an MPhil in Economics from Oxford University and a PhD in Economics from MIT. As dean of the Graduate School of Business, Levin has spearheaded initiatives to enhance the school's research and teaching mission, expand its educational reach, and launch a new initiative around Business, Government, and Society.

“When I was an undergraduate, Stanford opened my mind, nurtured my love for math and literature, and inspired me to pursue an academic career. In the years since, it has given me opportunities to pursue ideas in collaboration with brilliant colleagues, teach exceptional students, and bring people together to achieve ambitious collective goals around the university,” Levin said.

Leaders of the presidential search highlighted Levin's academic credentials, leadership record, and personal qualities as factors that distinguish him as the ideal candidate to guide Stanford into the future. Bonnie Maldonado and Lily Sarafan, co-chairs of the Presidential Search Committee, commended Levin for his ability to engage with the Stanford community and his vision for the university's role in the world.

He succeeds Richard Saller, who has served as Stanford’s interim president since September 2023.