Gannon University Reappointed Former President Keith Taylor

Keith Taylor has returned to lead the Erie institution as it finalizes a merger with Ursuline College.

Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in People

Gannon University Reappointed Former President Keith Taylor

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Walter Iwanenko resigned as president of Gannon University on October 8, 2026, prompting the board to bring back Keith Taylor to lead the institution. Taylor previously served as the university president for 12 years.

Why it matters

The change in leadership comes as Gannon University nears completion of its merger with Ursuline College, a critical strategic milestone for the institution. The board has tapped an experienced former leader to steer the university through this integration period while a new search begins.

Keith Taylor returns to the president's chair after a prior 12-year tenure, succeeding Walter Iwanenko, who served as the eighth president since July 2023. The university is currently managing its merger with Cleveland-based Ursuline College.

The players

Keith Taylor

An academic administrator who previously served as Gannon University president for 12 years.

Walter Iwanenko

The former eighth president of Gannon University who served in the role from July 2023 until October 2026.

Gannon University

A private Catholic university based in Erie, Pennsylvania, with additional operations in Ruskin, Florida.

Ursuline College

A private college based in Cleveland, Ohio, currently undergoing a merger with Gannon University.

The details

The board selected Keith Taylor to serve as president during the transition and the ongoing search for a permanent leader. Walter Iwanenko, who joined the university in 2016, stepped down to pursue other opportunities as the merger process nears completion. This shift marks a return to stability for the organization as it integrates the Ohio-based college into its broader operational footprint.

2016: Walter Iwanenko joined Gannon University.
July 2023: Walter Iwanenko became the eighth university president.
October 8, 2026: Walter Iwanenko resigned and Keith Taylor returned as president.

Market Landscape

This leadership transition occurs amidst a sector-wide consolidation trend as small and mid-sized institutions seek mergers to ensure long-term viability. It follows a pattern set by the ongoing wave of higher education consolidations and mergers currently reshaping the collegiate landscape.

Operators in the region should monitor the merger timeline, as integration efforts often involve significant changes to local procurement and hiring practices. Watch for updates on the search for a permanent successor, as that will clarify the university's long-term strategic direction.

The takeaway

Leadership instability during a merger can create friction in institutional vendor relations and administrative workflows. Monitor the university's formal communications for shifts in its procurement policy or capital improvement plans as the merger with Ursuline College reaches its final phase.