News Summary
Christian Hardigree, currently the regional chancellor at USF St. Petersburg, will soon take on the role of president at Texas A&M University-Victoria. Hardigree, who has held her position at USF St. Petersburg since July 2022, announced her departure to start at Texas A&M, where she aims to contribute her experience and leadership skills. Her tenure at USF was marked by significant achievements in funding and the development of new programs, despite the challenges faced during her time there.
Victoria, Texas – Christian Hardigree has announced her decision to leave the University of South Florida (USF) St. Petersburg to step into the role of president at Texas A&M University-Victoria. Hardigree, who has served as the regional chancellor at USF St. Petersburg since July 2022, will conclude her time there on November 3.
Describing her decision as “bittersweet,” Hardigree reflected on her tenure, stating that serving as regional chancellor was one of the greatest honors of her career. As she transitions to Texas A&M University-Victoria, she has expressed gratitude for the supportive community at USF St. Petersburg.
Hardigree’s appointment to Texas A&M was officially announced when she was named the sole finalist for the presidency on September 18, following a thorough evaluation process. She has been recognized for her steadfast leadership, especially during challenging times, which included overseeing the campus through six hurricanes, notably the catastrophic 2024 storm season that resulted in over $5 million in damages.
During her time at USF St. Petersburg, Hardigree successfully secured substantial funding for several significant projects. This includes:
- $34.3 million for the Environmental and Oceanographic Sciences Research and Teaching Facility.
- $7.5 million designated for the Office of Veterans Success.
- Over $3.5 million for the Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Risk to Resilience Lab, which focuses on human trafficking issues.
- $1 million for the Eileen Hoffman Hafer UMatter program, advocating for young adults with intellectual disabilities.
Hardigree played a crucial role in expanding research opportunities at USF St. Petersburg and introduced new programs, including a campus comfort dog initiative and the forthcoming nursing bachelor’s degree program. As a result, she has significantly contributed to the alignment of the campus with the broader USF system.
The transition comes at a time of leadership changes within USF, as President Rhea Law announced her resignation in February. Following Hardigree’s announcement, the university will begin the search for an interim regional chancellor. Additionally, Moez Limayem, the former Lynn Pippenger Dean of the Muma College of Business, has been identified as the sole finalist for the new USF president.
The Texas A&M University-Victoria campus, which became part of the Texas A&M system on September 1, 2023, serves around 3,000 students and is eager to benefit from Hardigree’s experience. Before her current role, Hardigree served as the founding dean of the School of Hospitality at Metropolitan State University in Denver.
Texas A&M System Board Chair Robert L. Albritton expressed confidence in Hardigree’s leadership abilities, anticipating her significant contributions to the growth of the Victoria campus. As Hardigree prepares for her new position, she emphasizes the importance of modeling behavior that encourages students to follow their dreams.
In conclusion, while Texas A&M University-Victoria welcomes its new president, the community at USF St. Petersburg will bid farewell to a leader who has made considerable strides in funding, development, and community support during her brief but impactful tenure.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
USF St. Petersburg Chancellor Named Finalist for Texas A&M University
USFSP Students Advocate for Identity Flags Reinstatement
St. Petersburg School Faces Challenges After Hurricanes
USF St. Petersburg Celebrates Graduates and New Developments
Additional Resources
- USF Oracle
- Wikipedia: Texas A&M University
- St. Pete Catalyst
- Google Search: Christian Hardigree
- Business Observer
- Google Scholar: Christian Hardigree
- Crowsnest St. Pete
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Texas University
- St. Pete Catalyst
- Google News: Texas A&M University-Victoria
Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas 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 Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
