News Summary
Tim Cost will step down as President of Jacksonville University in 2026, taking on the role of Chancellor to focus on partnerships and fundraising. Under his leadership, JU has seen significant growth, opening new programs and improving rankings, despite facing controversies. The JU Board of Trustees is grateful for his service as they prepare to search for his successor.
Jacksonville
Tim Cost will step down from his role as President of Jacksonville University (JU) in the summer of 2026. Following his departure, he will take on the title of Chancellor, where he will concentrate on partnerships, fundraising, and community relations. This transition was agreed upon by the JU Board of Trustees as part of a discussion initiated in 2022.
Cost has been at the helm of JU for 14 years, having assumed the presidency in February 2013. As an alumnus of the university, he graduated Magna Cum Laude in 1981 and made a name for himself as a standout baseball player during his time there. Before his presidency, Cost held significant executive roles at major companies, including PepsiCo and ARAMARK.
Achievements and Growth
Under Cost’s leadership, Jacksonville University has seen substantial growth in both undergraduate and graduate enrollment. His tenure has also been marked by the establishment of key strategic partnerships that have helped to elevate the institution’s profile, both regionally and nationally. Noteworthy achievements include the opening of JU’s College of Law in Downtown Jacksonville in 2022, and the current construction of LECOM, which will be the area’s first four-year medical school.
During Cost’s presidency, JU’s rankings have improved, achieving the highest ratings from U.S. News & World Report and being included in the Forbes Top 500 U.S. Universities list for the years 2024 to 2026. These accomplishments highlight the positive trajectory of the university under his guidance.
Controversies and Challenges
However, Cost’s leadership has not been without its controversies. His decisions resulted in cuts that led to approximately 40 faculty dismissals and the elimination of several programs. These moves sparked student protests and criticism from faculty members. Despite these challenges, JU has maintained approximately 4,000 students enrolled across a variety of programs, including nursing, business, and aviation.
Board of Trustees’ Response
The JU Board of Trustees has expressed its gratitude for Cost’s leadership over the years, acknowledging his commitment to both the institution and its student body. As preparations for his transition move forward, the board plans to conduct an extensive search process to identify the next President of Jacksonville University.
Looking Ahead
In reflecting on his tenure, Cost noted the privilege and honor it has been to serve as President of JU, emphasizing the vibrant community and talent that the university boasts. The upcoming transition is seen as a pivotal moment for both Cost and the university as they prepare for future challenges and opportunities.
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Additional Resources
- Florida Politics
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- The Florida Times-Union
- Wikipedia: Jacksonville University
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval 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 the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
