USF St. Petersburg Regional Chancellor Christian Hardigree will become the next president of Texas A&M University-Victoria, ending her tenure at USF that began in July 2022.
In a message to the campus community, Hardigree said, “Serving as Regional Chancellor has been one of the greatest honors of my career and being part of the USF St. Petersburg community has been a true privilege. This is an extraordinary place – one where people care about each other, lift each other up and, most importantly, always put our students first. The passion I have witnessed has been inspiring, and it is because of you that this campus continues its amazing upward trajectory.”
During her time as chancellor, Hardigree led initiatives aimed at student success and expanded academic offerings. She also worked to strengthen ties with elected officials and local organizations. Her leadership included guiding the campus through six hurricanes and managing recovery efforts after storms affected the university.
USF President Rhea Law acknowledged Hardigree’s contributions: “Since joining USF St. Petersburg, Chancellor Hardigree has demonstrated a deep commitment to academic excellence and student success, and she has helped strengthen our community partnerships. Her steady leadership and collaborative spirit have enhanced the campus experience for students, faculty and staff, and we appreciate everything she has done for our university. We wish her all the best in this exciting new opportunity.”
Under Hardigree’s direction, research opportunities for students increased—especially during summer sessions—and a comfort dog program was established on campus. New academic programs were launched or improved to address local needs; these include a nursing bachelor’s degree program set to start in fall 2026 as well as expanded public health and hospitality education.
Major investments during her tenure included $34.3 million for an Environmental and Oceanographic Sciences Research and Teaching Facility intended to boost marine science education; $7.5 million for new resources supporting veterans transitioning from military service; over $3.5 million for the Trafficking in Persons Risk to Resilience Lab focused on human trafficking research; and $1 million for the Eileen Hoffman Hafer UMatter program supporting young adults with intellectual disabilities.
Hardigree noted in her message: “The impact of our collective work will continue to be felt for years to come. Thank you for your support and your dedication to our students and to each other.”
She also played a role in aligning USF St. Petersburg with broader university goals, including its status as a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU).
Melissa Seixas, chair of the USF St. Petersburg Campus Board and member of the USF Board of Trustees, commented: “Chancellor Hardigree made a meaningful impact on the USF students and staff of the St. Petersburg campus. Her strategic and operational leadership ensured a successful path for our campus community for years to come. We wish her the very best as she embarks in her new role as President of Texas A&M University-Victoria.”
Hardigree’s last day at USF will be November 3. The university plans to name an interim regional chancellor soon.
