Georgetown University Names Eduardo Peñalver As Next President

Washington, D.C. — Georgetown University’s board of directors has unanimously voted to name Eduardo M. Peñalver the 49th president of the university. Peñalver, currently the president of Seattle University and a Rhodes Scholar, will take on his new position on July 1, 2026.

Peñalver has been the president of Seattle University since 2021 and is the first layperson to hold this role since the university’s founding in 1891. He succeeds Interim President Robert M. Groves, who has been in charge since John J. DeGioia stepped down in November 2024 for health reasons. “We are pleased to welcome Eduardo Peñalver to Georgetown University,” said Thomas A. Reynolds, chair of the board.

Peñalver brings extensive experience in higher education. He previously served as the dean of Cornell Law School and taught at prestigious institutions such as Fordham, Columbia, and Yale law schools. He is known for his work in property law and has authored significant publications, including two books on property theory.

“I’m deeply honored to have the privilege of serving as Georgetown’s next president,” Peñalver said. He expressed gratitude to both the Presidential Search Committee and Groves for their leadership during transitional times. He believes his Catholic faith plays a crucial role in shaping his educational philosophy.

A native of Puyallup, Washington, Peñalver has strong roots in Catholic education and acknowledges the influence of his upbringing on his academic pursuits. He graduated magna cum laude from Cornell University and earned his law degree from Yale.

As he steps into this role, Peñalver aims to address several challenges facing modern universities, including political polarization and enhancing Georgetown’s initiatives in artificial intelligence and access to education. “This is an exciting moment in Georgetown’s history,” he remarked, emphasizing the prospect of expanding the university’s Capitol Campus and enhancing interdisciplinary programs.

Reverend Daniel Patrick L. Huang of the Georgetown Search Committee highlighted Peñalver’s commitment to the university’s Jesuit identity. He aims to create an environment that nurtures the whole person, focusing on both academic success and personal growth.

Peñalver’s selection follows a thorough search process, with Reynolds commending the contributions of the university community in shaping the presidential qualifications. The board’s unanimous decision reflects confidence in Peñalver’s ability to lead during a pivotal period for higher education.