The official university seal is worn by the Chancellor during Commencement.

Office of the Chancellor

Douglas A. Girod is the 18th chancellor of the University of Kansas. In this role, Chancellor Girod leads KU's mission to educate leaders, build healthy communities and make discoveries that change the world.

Chancellor's State of the University Address

Chancellor Girod delivered his State of the University Address on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at the Jayhawk Welcome Center. Topics included enrollment, research, healthcare access for Kansans, the "One KU" initiative, the Lawrence campus budget, economic development, Kansas Athletics, fundraising and more.

Chancellor's Messages

Mourning the tragic loss of a Jayhawk

The University of Kansas is mourning the loss of Sarah Milgrim, a graduate of KU who was tragically killed in last night’s attack at the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C.

Reflecting on the academic year

As final exams conclude and we prepare to celebrate Commencement with our graduates, Chancellor Girod reflects on the academic year and thanks faculty and staff for their efforts.

Karla Leeper named vice chancellor at University of Tennessee Health Science Center

Karla Leeper, our vice chancellor for strategic communications and public affairs, has been named the new vice chancellor for strategic communication and marketing at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center.

Financial stewardship during uncertain times

Chancellor Girod discusses how federal policy changes have created unprecedented uncertainty for higher education and indicate a fundamental transformation of the relationship between universities and the federal government.

Chancellor Douglas A. Girod

Chancellor Girod has established a bold vision for the University of Kansas to be a destination for top scholars from across the world, an engine of economic growth for Kansas, and one of the nation’s leading research universities.
Douglas Girod in his living room having a discussion about KU

Chancellor's Weekly Video Update

Chancellor Girod is hosting weekly Zoom updates to discuss the latest happenings at KU. The discussions are pre-recorded and shared with campus each Wednesday.
Douglas Girod filming a video in front of a green screen in Budig Hall.

Invite the Chancellor to your event

Chancellor Girod strives to attend as many campus events as possible.
Appearance Request Form
Chancellor Douglas A. Girod

"The work we do at KU changes lives and improves the world in meaningful ways. I look forward to collaborating with students, faculty, staff and KU supporters everywhere to continue this work on behalf of the state and society we serve."


Douglas A. Girod
Chancellor