USC Will Appoint David Madigan as Provost
The University of Southern California will appoint a new provost to lead its academic strategy starting in mid-October.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in People
Live Poll
Should universities prioritize hiring external experts for senior academic leadership roles?
On October 13, 2026, David Madigan will begin his term as the University of Southern California's provost and executive vice president. His appointment concludes a global search led by the Provost Search Committee, replacing Andrew Guzman.
Why it matters
Operators in the education and research sectors should note this leadership shift as the university balances its academic administration with institutional growth goals. The appointment marks a transition in the oversight of the university's various schools and colleges.
Madigan brings experience from Northeastern University, where he helped recruit 350 faculty members, and Columbia University, where he oversaw 50 research centers. He succeeds Andrew Guzman, who will return to the faculty at the USC Gould School of Law.
The players
David Madigan
An academic administrator with previous leadership experience at Northeastern University and Columbia University who specializes in Bayesian statistics.
Megan Jordan
A communications executive who has served as the university's interim chief communications officer since January 2026.
Andrew Guzman
The outgoing provost of the University of Southern California who will return to the faculty at the institution's law school.
The details
The Provost Search Committee unanimously recommended Madigan following a global search process to fill the role. As provost, Madigan will manage the university's broad academic operations, drawing on a background that includes Bayesian statistics and drug safety. Alongside this appointment, USC named Megan Jordan as senior vice president and chief communications officer, a role she held in an interim capacity since January 2026.
Timeline
January 2026: Megan Jordan began serving as interim chief communications officer.
September 30, 2026: USC announced the appointment of David Madigan.
October 13, 2026: David Madigan begins his term as USC provost.
Market Landscape
This transition aligns with the standard university provost search process common among large academic institutions seeking experienced leadership from peer organizations. The move follows a period of stable administration as the university pivots to its next phase of institutional strategy.
Operators in the nonprofit and education sectors should monitor how these new executive appointments alter the university's engagement with local partnerships. Watch for formal updates to administrative policy once the new leadership team assumes their responsibilities.
The takeaway
Large institutional transitions require significant alignment across departmental leadership teams. Monitor the incoming provost's first major policy statements to identify shifts in research or operational priorities.
What happens next
David Madigan is scheduled to begin his term as USC provost on October 13, 2026.
Further reading
For more on the executive transitions shaping regional leadership, see our People section.
Live Poll
Should universities prioritize hiring external experts for senior academic leadership roles?
