Brown University President Christina Paxson will step down at the end of the 2026-27 academic year, triggering a national search for Brown’s 20th president.

Paxson, Brown’s president since July 2012, will conclude a fifteen-year tenure when she departs.

Chancellor Brian Moynihan praised Paxson for academic and operational excellence, noting Brown’s growth and progress under her leadership.

The broader environment includes federal scrutiny of DEI programming and foreign funding disclosures, with Ivy League universities collectively receiving about $4.6 billion in federal R&D funding in 2023, underscoring leverage over campuses.

In 2022 Paxson helped establish the Center for Philosophy, Politics and Economics by securing faculty support despite concerns about funding and libertarian leanings.

Her tenure faced challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, a campus pro-Palestinian encampment, and disruptions to federal funding, with Brown later restoring funding after controversy.

She emphasized religious diversity and open inquiry, advocating for learning over indoctrination and admitting students from diverse religious and geographic backgrounds.

Notable achievements include creating the School of Public Health (2013) and the Brown Arts Institute (2021), expanding undergraduate access and affordability, and deepening community engagement and economic development in Providence and Rhode Island.

Paxson highlighted the volatile federal funding landscape but pointed to Brown’s ongoing major research grants and innovation as reasons for confident leadership transition.

The story notes campus challenges and debates on Israel, security, and pro-Israel activism, while acknowledging Brown’s strength among Ivies.

Moynihan cited Paxson’s impact on expanding financial aid, growing research, improving campus life, and strengthening Providence and Rhode Island partnerships.

Her tenure included milestones like two new schools, 165 endowed professorships, and expanded financial aid, along with launching the Building on Distinction plan and the Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan.