University of San Diego
UD Monthly
President Harris
James T. Harris

James T. Harris III, President

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October 2026

FROM THE PRESIDENT

Lighting the Way Forward

Leading the University of San Diego is one of the great privileges of my life, but I have decided the time has come for me to conclude my tenure as president in 2027.

Any accomplishments, milestones or triumphs we have celebrated during my tenure belong to the collective efforts, shared sacrifice and tireless work of our exceptional faculty, outstanding staff and dedicated administrators. Together we have accomplished so much and our university is well positioned for the future.

We have an exceptional board with strong leadership, and they are well prepared to initiate and lead a national search. They will share their plans with the university community in the weeks and months ahead.

While my chapter as your president is coming to an end, my dedication to this extraordinary academic community remains steadfast. My journey in education began over 45 years ago as a teacher, and I look forward to my next chapter returning to teaching and writing as a USD faculty member.

Read President Harris' full message here

Question of the Day

USD is ranked No. 2 in the country for study abroad participation. In how many countries does USD offer courses?

 

A. 27

B. 9


C. 44

D. 36

 

Think you know? Find the answer below!

All Faith Service
Fall Research Colloquium

FEATURED STORY

Knowledge and Creativity on Display

Dozens of undergraduate students gathered to showcase research they did with peers and faculty mentors over the summer. The projects ranged from STEM research to painting and mixed media artwork. ... Read the Full Story

Magnfica Humanitas Forum

Magnificent Humanity

Faculty members from across campus discussed Pope Leo XIV's Magnifica Humanitas ... Learn More

National Recognition

The Princeton Review ranked USD among the best in the country in several categories. ... Learn More

Welcome Back, Toreros!

Move-in, Neon Night and more. OLÉ Weekend kicked off the 2026-27 academic year. ... Learn More

ALUMNI CONNECTION

Lifelong Learner, Global Changemaker: Susan Antolin '17 (MEd) 

To dream beyond borders — that is the mission guiding Susan Aryan Antolin, EdD ’17 (MEd), executive director of the nonprofit Women for Afghan Women. The origin of her focus and career trajectory came early, when she saw the importance of educational empowerment as a high school student. ... Read the Full Story

All Faith Service

“My work sits at the intersection of education, gender equality and global justice."

Leading the Next Generation of Business Students with Brian Tietje, PhD

AT THE EDGE OF IT ALL

Leading the Next Generation of Business Students

In this episode of "At the Edge of it All," Brian Tietje, dean of the Knauss School of Business, reflected on his first year leading USD's business school and what drew him to want to work at USD. ... Listen to the Full Episode

Featured Events

USD men's basketball

6th Player Night

Oct. 15

Get an inside look at USD Men’s & Women’s Basketball.

 

USD Homecoming and Family Weekend

Homecoming and Family Weekend

Oct. 16-18

Reconnect with old friends, make new memories and feel the vibrant energy of the USD community.

Torero Midday Masterclass

Oct. 23

A high-impact virtual series featuring top faculty from the Knauss School of Business.

Grandparents with their Toreros

Romeo & Juliet

Oct. 31 - Nov. 8

Performed by students from The Old Globe and University of San Diego Shiley Graduate Theatre Program.

USD Events Calendar
USD Athletics Calendar

USD in the News Highlights

Watch a brief highlight video of USD's appearances in the media during the month of September 2026. Find links to these stories and more on the USD in the News page.

Question of the Day Answer:

C. 44 countries

USD offers approximately 135 academic study abroad programs offered in 44 countries and 76 cities. The graduate and professional programs also offer extensive international opportunities for working professionals as well as full-time graduate students.

All Faith Service

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