The University of Florida has announced that Michigan President Santa Ono has been unanimously recommended as the sole finalist for the position of the university’s 14th president. This recommendation follows a thorough search process and is subject to approval by the Florida Board of Governors, as required by state law.
Santa Ono, currently serving as the 15th president of the University of Michigan, brings a distinguished record of leadership in academia and public health. His previous roles include serving as president of the University of British Columbia and the University of Cincinnati. Ono is expected to engage with the Gainesville campus community this week, providing opportunities for students, faculty, and administrators to connect with him.
Ono's leadership style is characterized by inclusivity and collaboration. At the University of Michigan, he navigated significant diversity, equity, and inclusion policy shifts in response to federal directives, demonstrating his ability to lead through complex challenges. His appointment is expected to bring a focus on academic excellence and community engagement to the University of Florida.
The University of Florida community looks forward to the potential of having a leader with Santa Ono's vision and experience at the helm. His appointment represents a strategic move to bolster the university's academic stature and leadership continuity.