In a significant development for the University of Dayton (UD), President Eric Spina has announced his intention to retire in 2027, a decision he describes as one of the most challenging he has ever faced. In a heartfelt blog post, Spina revealed that this choice followed extensive periods of contemplation, prayer, and discussions with those close to him.
Since taking office in 2016, Spina has overseen numerous impactful initiatives at UD. Notable achievements during his presidency include the launch of The Hub Powered by PNC Bank located in downtown Dayton, the creation of the Greater West Dayton Incubator, the establishment of the Roger Glass Center for the Arts, and the inception of the onMain development project in partnership with Premier Health.
Additionally, Spina played a crucial role in guiding the university through the We Soar campaign, which marked UD’s first comprehensive fundraising initiative in two decades. This ambitious campaign not only met but exceeded its fundraising goal by an impressive 13%, securing a total of $453 million for the institution.
With over a year still left in his presidency, Spina remains dedicated to furthering UD's mission alongside his leadership team and is committed to facilitating a seamless transition for his successor. In a statement, the University of Dayton confirmed that its board of trustees is actively collaborating with an executive search firm to identify a suitable replacement.
Deb Tobias, the chair of the University of Dayton’s board of trustees, expressed high regard for Spina, stating that his leadership has fostered transparency, stability, and inspiration both on campus and throughout the broader Dayton community. Tobias commended Spina for reinforcing the university’s dedication to community engagement and nurturing a culture of philanthropy, while also demonstrating to students that UD is a welcoming and inclusive educational environment.
"Eric has effectively positioned the university to face the future with optimism and determination," Tobias added, highlighting the positive legacy Spina will leave behind.
Prior to his tenure at the University of Dayton, Spina accumulated 28 years of experience at Syracuse University, where he served in various capacities including faculty member, department head, funded researcher, dean, and spent nearly nine years as vice chancellor and provost.
A Buffalo, New York native, Spina is an alumnus of Canisius High School, Carnegie Mellon University, and Princeton University. His distinguished career at Syracuse culminated in his retirement as a trustee professor and vice chancellor and provost emeritus.
