News Summary
The University of South Florida has named Moez Limayem, current president of the University of North Florida, as the sole finalist for USF’s next president. His nomination awaits approval from the USF Board of Trustees and the Florida Board of Governors. Limayem has a strong academic background and notable achievements, including significant fundraising efforts and enhancing university partnerships. His appointment could strengthen USF’s industry ties, though he has faced previous controversies during his career.
TAMPA, FL – The University of South Florida (USF) has named Moez Limayem, the current president of the University of North Florida (UNF), as the sole finalist for the position of USF’s next president. Limayem’s nomination follows approval by the USF presidential search committee and awaits confirmation from both the USF Board of Trustees and the Florida Board of Governors.
The next meeting of the Florida Board of Governors is scheduled for November 5-6 in Tampa. However, USF spokespeople have not yet announced a date for the Board of Trustees to vote on Limayem’s appointment.
Academic and Professional Background
Moez Limayem has a robust academic background, holding an MBA earned in 1988 and a Ph.D. in 1992 in information systems from the University of Minnesota. Prior to his current role at UNF, he served as the Lynn Pippenger Dean of the Muma College of Business at USF, where he significantly impacted the institution’s fundraising efforts.
During his tenure at the Muma College of Business, Limayem successfully helped secure over $126 million in donations, including a record-setting $25 million gift from Pam and Les Muma in 2014. He also served as the associate dean for research and graduate programs at the University of Arkansas’ Walton College of Business from 2010 to 2012.
Record of Achievements at UNF
Since taking on the president’s role at UNF in 2022, Limayem has overseen record first-year retention and enrollment figures, which position the university as a leading institution in graduate employment outcomes. His administration has expanded corporate partnerships that have strengthened UNF’s ties to industry.
Challenges and Controversies
Throughout his career, Limayem has faced several controversies. Criticism has arisen regarding academic governance and law enforcement partnerships at UNF. In August 2023, the faculty union at UNF filed a grievance related to new post-tenure review policies implemented by the administration. Additionally, UNF previously entered into a memorandum of agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to prepare campus police officers for immigration enforcement duties. These challenges may be a consideration for his appointment at USF.
Potential for Economic Development
Limayem’s candidacy is viewed as an opportunity to enhance USF’s partnerships with corporate entities and to advance workforce development initiatives in the Tampa Bay area. His proven track record in fundraising and creating collaborative ties between academia and industry could support USF’s goals in economic development and community engagement.
Next Steps Before Confirmation
Before the Board of Trustees votes on Limayem’s appointment, he is expected to participate in public forums where he will engage with students, faculty, alumni, and community leaders. These forums will provide a platform for stakeholders to voice their opinions and inquiries regarding his leadership vision for USF.
If Limayem’s appointment receives approval, he would become the ninth president of USF, succeeding Rhea Law, who has announced her plans to step down from the role.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tampa Bay to Honor Women Leaders with 2025 Awards
Additional Resources
- USF Oracle: Meet USF Presidential Finalist Moez Limayem
- Google Search: Moez Limayem USF
- TBBW Magazine: USF Sole Finalist for Presidency
- Wikipedia: Moez Limayem
- Florida Phoenix: USF Search Committee Members Brainstorm Qualities
- Google Scholar: Moez Limayem
- Jacksonville.com: UNF President Limayem in Line to Return to USF
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Moez Limayem
- The Capitolist: USF Names Moez Limayem as Sole Finalist
- Google News: Moez Limayem USF
Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER
The TAMPA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETampa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tampa, Hillsborough County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Florida State Fair, and Tampa Riverfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and United Way Suncoast, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and technology that power the local economy such as BayCare Health System, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, and KnowBe4. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERESTPetersburg.com, and HERETallahassee.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
