Southern Methodist University has launched a new initiative aimed at strengthening its connection with the city, announcing the formation of The Dallas Office and naming Kit Sawers as its inaugural CEO and a university vice president, announced the university in a written statement.
Envisioned as a front door to the university, The Dallas Office will serve as a single, coordinated entry point for corporations, civic organizations, and community partners looking to engage with SMU. The effort is designed to streamline access to academic programs, faculty expertise, and student talent, while expanding opportunities for collaboration in research, workforce development, and innovation.
“This is a defining moment for Dallas and SMU,” said SMU President Jay Hartzell. “Universities in urban environments are winning, and Dallas creates greater differentiation and opportunity than virtually any city in America.”
Sawers will join SMU on Aug. 3 and report directly to Hartzell, leading regional engagement across business development, research partnerships, and student career pathways, read the statement.
“SMU is uniquely positioned at the intersection of academic excellence and one of the most dynamic cities in the country,” Sawers said. “The Dallas Office is about making it easier to bring together organizations, ideas, and talent to build partnerships that drive impact for Dallas and create meaningful opportunities for students and faculty.”
Sawers currently serves as the president and CEO of Klyde Warren Park, one of the nation’s most successful urban parks, welcoming more than 2 million visitors annually. She brings deep experience advancing major initiatives that drive impact.
“Kit’s vision, leadership, and energy have been transformational for Klyde Warren Park, and we will continue to build on her impactful work as we look to the park’s future,” said Jody Grant ’60, Woodall Rodgers Park Foundation chairman and an SMU Distinguished Alumni Award recipient. “Kit will be deeply missed both personally and professionally. As an SMU alum and proud Mustang, I am thrilled she is bringing her talents to my beloved alma mater in this exciting new chapter.”
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