SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce to Leave Agency for Academia

SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce, known for her outspoken views on cryptocurrency regulation, is set to leave her position at the agency in November 2026. The move, which marks the end of her tenure as 'Crypto Mom,' will see her join Regent University School of Law as an associate professor.

According to a May 19 press release from the Virginia-based institution, Peirce will teach a range of subjects including securities regulation, financial markets, digital assets, and public policy. Her appointment is part of a wider effort to strengthen the law school's faculty, with former Solicitor of Labor Gregory F. Jacob also joining as Senior Associate Dean and Associate Professor.

Pierce has been a vocal critic of the SEC's approach to regulating cryptocurrencies during her time at the agency, frequently expressing concerns about the lack of clear rules for digital assets. Her departure marks a significant change in the agency's leadership, with former chair Gary Gensler having left to join MIT Sloan as a professor earlier this year.