Dear members of the Wake Forest community:
After conducting a national search, the Presidential Search Committee unanimously recommended to the Board of Trustees, and the Board approved, the appointment of Dr. Peter Rodriguez as the 15th president of Wake Forest University. A distinguished economist and transformative academic leader, Dr. Rodriguez currently serves as the dean of Rice University’s School of Business, which includes the Jesse H. Jones Graduate School of Business and the Virani Undergraduate School of Business. He will begin his presidency at Wake Forest on July 1, 2026.
The search committee conducted a rigorous process that attracted high-quality candidates and accomplished leaders in higher education. Each candidate who was interviewed offered unique strengths and achievements. Ultimately, we were impressed by Dr. Rodriguez’s academic credentials, business acumen, steady leadership, appetite for innovation, and a reputation for strong relationships across his various campuses.
During the search, we came to know Dr. Rodriguez as a scholar and an intellectually capable, avid learner and researcher. He is a leader of principle, character and kindness who has the mind and temperament for the complexities of modern higher education. We are delighted he has agreed to join our community, and encourage you to learn more about him in this special video introduction, on the search website and in this news story.
As co-chairs of the search committee, we were joined by 15 others who offered their perspectives, insights and expertise to the search. We are grateful for the countless hours and the individual and collective effort on behalf of all Wake Foresters. The work was serious and critical, and, as you might expect, the journey of working side by side was occasionally intense and always rewarding.
Additionally, we thank you, the Wake Forest community, for your input into the process. We listened to your feedback, and we took your counsel seriously. We know that the success of Wake Forest does not rest on the shoulders of one individual. We are all responsible for upholding the mission and vision that make this community distinct, and we are grateful for your ongoing support and contributions.
While the search has concluded, the work of welcoming, acclimating and befriending is about to begin. Dr. Rodriguez and his wife, Kathleen, will move to Winston-Salem over the summer. Mrs. Rodriguez is a third-grade teacher who has been married to Dr. Rodriguez for 32 years, and together, they have three children – Gabriella, Sam and Michael. When the opportunity arises, please welcome them warmly as they join the Wake Forest family.
With deep gratitude and appreciation,
Jeanne Whitman Bobbitt and Curt Farmer
Co-Chairs of Presidential Search Committee
Peter is a trained economist who has an insatiable curiosity and strategic mind. … He is an attentive and responsive leader who demonstrates excellence and humility.
Curt Farmer (’84, MBA ’91, P ’16, P ’17)