Leadership

Redefining Excellence in Education with Jay Hartzell

November 12, 2025

Redefining Excellence in Education with Jay Hartzell

Jay Hartzell

President of SMU

On this week’s Walker Webcast, Willy was joined by Jay Hartzell, President of Southern Methodist University (SMU) – one of the nation’s premier research and teaching universities.

At a time of historic momentum for the university – record applications, investments in technology, and an athletics program on the ascent – Jay brings a bold and forward-looking vision to SMU.

He and Willy discussed key moments in Jay’s upbringing and career, his entry into the real estate world, how AI is influencing the SMU curriculum and driving a renaissance of liberal arts, how to produce well-rounded students, SMU’s move into the ACC, and much more.

Watch or listen to the replay.

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