UA Chancellor Finis St. John stepping down to take on new role

The University of Alabama announced that Finis St. John IV is stepping down as UA System Chancellor. St. John will take a lead role at the Shelby Institute for Policy and Leadership.

St. John has served as UA System Chancellor since 2018.

St. John’s new role

St. John will lead the newly formed Shelby Institute for Policy and Leadership at the University of Alabama, named for Sen. Richard Shelby.

The Shelby Institute is focused on providing premier educational programs for political science students interested in policy. The Shelby Institute will utilize records and materials donated by Shelby at the conclusion of his public service in 2021.

Earlier this month, the University of Alabama Board of Trustees approved the creation of the Institute, along with a $20 million endowment.

“I am honored to serve as the inaugural executive director of the Shelby Institute for Policy and Leadership. Senator Richard Shelby and Dr. Annette Shelby’s remarkable work in education and public policy has made an indelible impact on Alabama’s higher education landscape, and I greatly appreciate their support. This program will further their lasting legacy through a shared vision to invest in the future leaders of our state and our nation.”

Finis St. John

Finis St. John at UA

St. John leaves his post as UA Chancellor after nearly six years as the chief executive officer of the entire UA System (the largest employer in the state).

Prior to becoming Chancellor in 2018, St. John served on the University of Alabama System Board of Trustees for 17 years, chairing numerous key committees and filling an essential role in the recruitment of senior campus administrators.

He was unanimously elected to three successive terms as President pro tempore of the Board.

“It has been a tremendous honor to serve the University of Alabama System as chancellor following my tenure as a trustee. The UA System is stronger than ever with outstanding leaders at the helm of our institutions and is poised for continued success and fulfillment of our mission to improve lives through teaching, research and service.”

Finis St. John

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