Richard Lyons, an esteemed economist and former dean of the Haas School of Business, has been appointed as the next chancellor of the University of California, Berkeley. With a unanimous confirmation from the UC Board of Regents, Lyons, a UC Berkeley undergraduate alumnus, will be taking the reins as the campus’s top leader, marking the first time since 1930. Reflecting on his Berkeley roots and the mentors who shaped his journey, Lyons expressed his commitment to advancing institutional culture, promoting public education, and asking big questions to shape the future years of the university.
As a Berkeley graduate with a background in business and finance, Lyons went on to earn a Ph.D. in economics from MIT before joining the Berkeley faculty in 1993. Noteworthy for his tenure as the Haas School of Business dean from 2008 to 2018, Lyons oversaw the expansion of academic programs and initiatives that emphasized sustainability and interdisciplinary collaboration. Through his leadership, Lyons established defining leadership principles focused on challenging the status quo, fostering confidence without attitude, prioritizing students always, and encouraging a commitment to beyond oneself. These values have become a cornerstone of the campus culture under Lyons’ guidance.
In his new role as chancellor, Lyons plans to address the challenges faced by higher education institutions, focusing on equity, fairness, and creating a supportive campus community that values diverse perspectives. With a dedication to preserving Berkeley’s academic excellence and global reputation, Lyons aims to amplify the university’s unique stories and foster a culture that inspires innovation and changemaking. Supported by community partnerships and a strong track record of impactful programs, Lyons is poised to lead UC Berkeley into its next chapter, building on his lifelong dedication to ideas, learning, and strengthening organizational culture.
