Glenn Boyce, the newly appointed chancellor of the University of Mississippi, will assume his position starting “on or before” Sunday, October 13, according to a statement from Interim Chancellor Larry Sparks. 

In the statement titled “Former Commissioner of Higher Education is Visionary Leader,” Sparks listed Boyce’s credentials for the position. 

Boyce previously served as IHL Commissioner from 2015-2018, associate commissioner of academics and student affairs for student affairs and was President of Holmes Community College for over nine years. 

Sparks’ statement also included quotes from Boyce himself and current IHL Commissioner Ford Dye.

“I am humbled by the responsibility given to me. Together, we will strive to make the state’s flagship institution the most student-centered university in the nation, providing them with the education necessary to become the most creative, innovative, and entrepreneurial-minded students around,” Boyce said.

Dye said that the feedback received from the university’s stakeholders was invaluable in the process of hiring Boyce. 

“During the search process, our alumni, faculty, students, staff and community members provided invaluable feedback about the qualities they expect in the next University of Mississippi Chancellor, specifically citing a need for someone with strong and experienced leadership skills, broad higher-education expertise, who knows and understands our state.  We listened, and believe Glenn exemplifies those traits. His background and experience combine to make him the perfect choice to lead an outstanding public research university like ours to new levels of success,” Dye said. 

Boyce was initially slated to be announced as the next Chancellor at noon on Friday, but IHL Commissioner called the planned press conference off in response to protests.

In a Friday afternoon press tele-press conference, Boyce told reporters that he “understood and respected” the protestors freedom of expression. 

Boyce also confirmed that he was an initial consultant in the search process. He said that he received $87,000 to assist in finding a new Chancellor, and said that he would not be returning the money he received. 

“I didn’t hire myself. The Board of Trustees hired me…there was nothing untoward,” Boyce said.