ICPSR Celebrates Levenstein; Alexander Named Interim Director

ICPSR is honoring Director Maggie Levenstein’s decade of leadership while preparing for continued stewardship under Associate Director Trent Alexander, who will serve as interim director beginning September 1, 2026.

Levenstein, who has served as ICPSR’s director for the past ten years, will return to the faculty and begin a sabbatical in September. Under her leadership, ICPSR strengthened its position as a global leader in social science data and education, modernized its technology and research infrastructure, earned the National Medal for Museum and Library Service, and secured the Research Data Ecosystem initiative — the largest NSF infrastructure award ever made for the social and behavioral sciences.

Alexander will serve as interim director of ICPSR through August 31, 2027, guiding the organization during a period of transition. He is the Jerome M. Clubb Collegiate Research Professor and currently serves as associate director of ICPSR. Trained as a historian, Alexander brings a deep understanding of ICPSR and extensive leadership experience to the role. He has long been recognized for building innovative data resources, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, and strengthening the research infrastructure that supports social science discovery.

ICPSR will continue the search for its next director in partnership with the ICPSR Council, with updates to be shared as they become available.

A virtual celebration honoring Levenstein will be held Tuesday, August 11, from 12:45 to 1:30 p.m. ET on Zoom: Register to join us!