Harrison Keller

Harrison Keller became the 17th president of the University of North Texas in August 2024, bringing a strong commitment to student success and elevating UNT’s tradition of academic and research excellence on a national stage. A recognized leader in education policy and university administration, Dr. Keller is known for building coalitions among institutions, school districts, and policymakers to expand educational opportunity. He most recently served as Commissioner of Higher Education and CEO of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, leading statewide efforts to improve college readiness and success—especially for low-income and first-generation students. Dr. Keller previously held leadership roles at UT Austin, including Deputy to the President for Strategy and Policy, Vice Provost for Higher Education Policy and Research, and Executive Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning. He has also served in senior education roles in the Texas Legislature and taught at UT Austin, Georgetown, and St. Edward’s. A sixth-generation Texan, Dr. Keller holds degrees from Notre Dame and Georgetown. He served in the U.S. Navy Reserve from 2005 to 2015. He and his wife, Gena Nivens Keller, have three children.