Grand Rapids, Mich. — In a move that took many by surprise, Santa Ono, the current president of the University of Michigan, announced that he will step down from his role to accept the presidency at the University of Florida. Ono shared the news in a letter addressed to the university community, revealing that he had been selected as the sole finalist for the position. His appointment, however, is contingent upon approval from the University of Florida’s Board of Governors.
Ono, who took office at the University of Michigan in 2022, expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to lead one of the nation’s premier institutions of higher education. In his letter, he reflected on his tenure, calling it “a distinct honor” to serve as the president of the University of Michigan. He also noted that the decision to leave was not an easy one, as he and his wife, Wendy, have formed strong ties with the university and the state of Michigan.
“The University of Michigan — and the State of Michigan — have forever captured my heart,” Ono wrote. “It has been a profound privilege to be part of this extraordinary community and this remarkable state.”
Ono’s departure marks a significant transition for the university, which has seen notable achievements under his leadership, particularly in areas such as student success, research innovation, and community engagement. However, despite the accomplishments during his brief tenure, Ono emphasized that the decision to move on was motivated by his desire to take on new challenges and contribute to the growth of another prestigious institution.
Though Ono did not specify who would succeed him, he assured the university community that he would work closely with the Chair of the Board of Regents to ensure a smooth and orderly transition. The search for a new president will likely begin in earnest, with the University of Michigan’s Board of Regents responsible for selecting a successor.
Ono’s resignation adds to the growing trend of leadership changes in major academic institutions, and his departure from Michigan is expected to spark both curiosity and speculation about the future direction of the university. His replacement will undoubtedly face the challenge of maintaining Michigan’s reputation as a leading institution of higher learning, while navigating the complexities of an ever-evolving academic landscape.
As Ono prepares for his new role in Florida, the University of Michigan will be watching closely to see how the leadership transition unfolds and what new initiatives the incoming president will bring to campus. For now, Ono’s legacy at the University of Michigan remains firmly in place, a testament to his impact on the university’s vibrant community.
