New UC Riverside Chancellor Jack Hu Inaugurated

Hu aims to make UCR 'a place of greatness' as the university's first Asian-American leader.

Feb. 5, 2026 at 8:55pm

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Jack Hu, a native of China, was inaugurated as the 10th chancellor of the University of California, Riverside on Thursday. Hu, the first Asian person to lead the university, outlined his vision for UCR to become 'the nation's model for an inclusive innovation-driven public research university'.

Why it matters

Hu's appointment as the first Asian-American chancellor of UC Riverside is a significant milestone for the university and the UC system, which has historically lacked diversity in its top leadership roles. His inauguration represents an important step towards greater representation and inclusivity in higher education.

The details

During his inaugural address, Hu emphasized his goals of advancing excellence and social mobility at UCR, where 'discoveries, talent and opportunity transform in Southern California and the world.' Prior to joining UCR, Hu served as the senior vice president for academic affairs and provost at the University of Georgia.

  • Hu took over as UCR chancellor in July, replacing the retiring Kim Wilcox.
  • Hu's inauguration ceremony was held on Thursday, February 5, 2026.

The players

Jack Hu

The 10th chancellor of the University of California, Riverside and the first Asian person to lead the university. Hu was born in China and previously served as the senior vice president for academic affairs and provost at the University of Georgia.

Kim Wilcox

The former chancellor of the University of California, Riverside who retired in 2025, paving the way for Hu's appointment.

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What they’re saying

“Our vision is this: UC Riverside will be the nation's model for an inclusive innovation-driven public research university, where excellence and social mobility advance together, where discoveries, talent and opportunity transform in Southern California and the world.”

— Jack Hu, Chancellor, University of California, Riverside

“Together, we will show what that public research university can achieve when it is driven by purpose, grounded in community and united by that believe in the transformative power of education.”

— Jack Hu, Chancellor, University of California, Riverside

The takeaway

Hu's inauguration as the first Asian-American chancellor of UC Riverside represents a significant milestone for the university and the UC system, signaling a commitment to greater diversity and inclusivity in higher education leadership.