The University of Miami has officially appointed Joe Echevarria as its seventh president, following a unanimous vote by the Board of Trustees.
Echevarria, a distinguished University of Miami alumnus and former CEO of Deloitte LLP, makes history as the first graduate to lead the nearly 100-year-old institution. The decision comes after a thorough consultative process with faculty members and key stakeholders.
Manny Kadre, Chair of the UM Board of Trustees
“Joe Echevarria is a true and proven leader,” said Manny Kadre, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “His record of achievement in both the private sector and his service to our mission over the past six years is unmatched. Joe is deeply committed to the University’s academic excellence and to the Miami community.”
A former University trustee, Echevarria brings a wealth of experience to the role. He graduated from the University’s Patti and Allan Herbert Business School in 1978 and has since built a remarkable career, including a 36-year tenure at Deloitte, where he held key leadership positions and managed operations across the U.S. and internationally. More recently, Echevarria served as CEO of UHealth – the University of Miami Health System, where he spearheaded strategic expansions, improved patient care, and elevated service to the South Florida community.
Echevarria’s connection to the University runs deep. “The opportunity to serve my alma mater is a full circle moment for me,” said Joe Echevarria. “The faculty members who shaped my education continue to inspire our students and transform our community. I am honored to lead the University into its next century of excellence.”
JoNel Newman, Chair of the UM Faculty Senate
The decision to appoint Echevarria was met with widespread support across the University. JoNel Newman, Chair of the Faculty Senate, commended the Board’s robust consultation process and emphasized Echevarria’s unique qualifications. “Joe’s integrity, experience, and commitment to higher education make him the ideal choice to lead the University of Miami,” said Newman.
Echevarria steps into his new role at a pivotal time. The University is on the cusp of its 100th anniversary, expanding infrastructure with a new cancer research center and modern student housing, and recently joined the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU). His leadership is expected to guide the University through this transformative period.
“Joe’s vision and passion for the U are unparalleled,” said Maribel Perez Wadsworth, President of the University of Miami Alumni Association. “As we look to the future, we are in excellent hands.”
(Left to Right) Manny Kadre, Joe Echevarria, Stuart Miller (Photo: Joshua Prezant/University of Miami)
A long-time supporter of University athletics, Echevarria’s leadership extends beyond academics. He was a key player in hiring head football coach Mario Cristobal, helping to reinvigorate Miami’s storied football program. Additionally, he established a forward-thinking Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) program that empowers student-athletes and strengthens the University’s brand.
Echevarria remains deeply involved in the broader community. He chairs the Board of Directors of the Bank of New York Mellon and serves on the boards of Pfizer and Unum. His philanthropic efforts include previous roles as Chair of President Barack Obama’s My Brother’s Keeper Alliance and as an advisor to the Obama Foundation.
“Leadership is a team sport,” Echevarria said in his first message to the University community. “The U stands for unity, strength, and achievement. Together, we will build on our legacy and continue to serve as a beacon of excellence for Miami and beyond.”
To read the “Office of The President” letter from Joe Echeverria himself, click here. You can also listen in to the “Behind The U” podcast about Mr. Echeverria’s background.