University of Miami Hires Former UK PM Boris Johnson as Lecturer
The former British prime minister who resigned in disgrace will teach at UM's Miami Business School starting in spring 2025.
The University of Miami hired former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson as a guest lecturer at its Miami Business School, the university announced this week.
Johnson, who resigned as prime minister in July 2022 following a series of scandals, will teach courses on global leadership and international relations starting in spring 2025. The appointment comes as the Coral Gables university expands its international programming.
“We are pleased to welcome Boris Johnson to our faculty as a distinguished visiting lecturer,” said Miami Business School Dean John Quelch in a statement. “His experience in global politics and leadership will provide our students with unique insights into international affairs.”
Johnson served as UK prime minister from July 2019 to September 2022. His tenure ended after Conservative Party lawmakers lost confidence in his leadership following the “Partygate” scandal, in which Downing Street staff held gatherings during COVID-19 lockdowns, and his handling of sexual misconduct allegations against Deputy Chief Whip Chris Pincher.
The former prime minister also faced criticism for his role in the UK’s departure from the European Union and his response to the COVID-19 pandemic. A parliamentary committee later found Johnson deliberately misled lawmakers about lockdown-breaking parties at Downing Street.
“Boris Johnson brings decades of experience in international politics and diplomacy to our classroom,” Quelch said. “Our students will benefit from learning about global leadership challenges firsthand.”
The university did not disclose Johnson’s compensation or the duration of his appointment. UM officials said the position is part of the business school’s executive-in-residence program, which has previously hosted corporate leaders and government officials.
Johnson’s courses will focus on contemporary global challenges, including international trade, diplomatic relations, and crisis management. The classes will be offered to MBA students and select undergraduate business majors.
The hire reflects UM’s broader push to attract high-profile international figures as South Florida positions itself as a global business hub. The region has seen increased interest from international companies and investors in recent years, particularly in news and politics sectors.
“This appointment demonstrates our commitment to providing students with diverse perspectives on global leadership,” said university spokesperson Chris Castiglione.
Johnson previously served as London mayor from 2008 to 2016 and as a Member of Parliament for Henley and later Uxbridge and South Ruislip. Before entering politics, he worked as a journalist for The Telegraph and The Spectator magazine.
The former prime minister joins a growing list of international political figures taking academic positions in South Florida. His appointment has drawn both praise and criticism from faculty and students, though university officials said they expect robust classroom discussions.
“We encourage academic freedom and diverse viewpoints,” Castiglione said. “Our students are capable of engaging with different perspectives critically and thoughtfully.”
Johnson’s first lecture is scheduled for late January 2025. The university plans to livestream select sessions for alumni and the broader Miami community.
UM’s Miami Business School currently enrolls about 600 graduate students and 1,200 undergraduates. The school has been expanding its international programs as it seeks to attract students from Latin America, Europe, and Asia.
The appointment requires approval from the university’s board of trustees, which meets next month. University officials said they expect routine approval of the hire.