At the helm of one of the world’s most influential academic institutions, Dr. Linda G. Mills is setting a powerful example of leadership rooted in resilience, innovation, and service. Appointed as the 17th President of New York University, she is guiding the university through a period of transformation grounded in justice, empathy, and scholarly excellence.

Since assuming the role on July 1, 2023, Dr. Mills has brought a unique blend of academic distinction and social impact to her leadership. As the Lisa Ellen Goldberg Professor of Social Work, Public Policy, and Law, and the founder of NYU’s Center on Violence and Recovery, she has long been dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and communities through research, education, and restorative approaches to justice.

Her leadership philosophy is shaped by both academic rigor and personal history. Drawing strength from her family’s experiences during the Holocaust, Dr. Mills has spent much of her career focused on trauma, domestic violence, and systemic inequality. These deeply rooted convictions have guided her pioneering work in restorative justice, reshaping how courts across the United States approach intervention and healing.

A Career Built on Vision and Impact

Dr. Mills began her journey at NYU in 1999 as an Associate Professor. Her swift ascent to full professor by 2001 reflected not only her academic expertise but also her capacity to lead and inspire. Over the years, she has held several strategic roles within the university, including Vice Provost, Senior Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education and University Life, and later, Vice Chancellor and Senior Vice Provost for Global Programs and University Life. These roles allowed her to expand NYU’s presence around the world while enhancing the student experience at home.

Through each leadership post, Dr. Mills has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to inclusion, student success, and institutional excellence. Her work has influenced university life on a global scale, ensuring NYU remains a place where innovation and opportunity thrive.

Academic Foundation and Professional Depth

Dr. Mills brings with her an impressive academic foundation. She holds a Ph.D. in Health Policy from Brandeis University, a Master of Social Work from San Francisco State University, a Juris Doctor from the University of California, San Francisco, and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of California, Irvine. Recognized early in her career as a Pew Scholar, Dr. Mills continues to pursue academic inquiry with both depth and relevance.

Her scholarship has been supported by respected organizations such as the National Science Foundation and the National Institute of Justice. Through this work, she has contributed to advancing new approaches in domestic violence treatment, many of which are now practiced in courts and institutions across the nation.

Scholar, Author, and Filmmaker

Dr. Mills’ impact is not limited to classrooms or courtrooms. She is also a published author and accomplished filmmaker. Her articles have appeared in some of the most respected academic publications, including Harvard Law Review, Cornell Law Review, Journal of Experimental Criminology, and Nature: Human Behavior. She has authored books that confront some of society’s most complex issues with clarity and courage.

Her work as a filmmaker has also reached global audiences. Her documentaries, often centered on themes of justice and human rights, have premiered at major festivals such as Tribeca and have been broadcast to millions, including features on ABC. These creative efforts reflect her belief in storytelling as a powerful tool for change.

Building NYU’s Future with Integrity and Purpose

As President, Dr. Mills is steering NYU with a forward-looking vision that places integrity, equity, and scholarship at the center of progress. She understands the power of education to shape lives, elevate communities, and influence public policy. Her leadership reflects a commitment not just to academic success but to the broader goal of societal transformation.

Under her guidance, NYU continues to evolve as a global university with a strong foundation in liberal values and an expanding reach across continents. Through strategic initiatives and thoughtful engagement, she is working to create an academic environment where innovation is encouraged, diversity is embraced, and students are empowered to lead.

A Legacy of Courage and Leadership

Dr. Mills’ story is one of dedication, resilience, and thoughtful leadership. From her personal connection to the past to her academic achievements and creative expression, she brings a multidimensional approach to her role as university president. Her ability to navigate complexity with empathy and clarity has already begun to shape a new chapter for NYU.

In her leadership, one finds a deep respect for the past, a bold vision for the future, and a steady focus on equity and impact. Dr. Linda G. Mills stands not just as a scholar or administrator but as a transformative leader committed to making higher education a force for good in the world.