TUCSON, Ariz. — Dr. Suresh Garimella has been appointed as the 23rd president of the University of Arizona by the Arizona Board of Regents.
He is the current 27th president of the University of Vermont and is the former Executive Vice President for Research and Partnerships at Purdue University. The board voted unanimously for his appointment.
"I am honored to be chosen by the board as the next president of the University of Arizona," said Dr. Garimella. "I have long admired the U of A and its stature in the state of Arizona and far beyond. The institution demonstrates the best qualities of a land-grant university with exceptional leadership in research and health sciences, highly acclaimed faculty and staff, and a diverse student population comprised of the best and brightest from around the world. There are tremendous opportunities in front of us and I look forward to collaborating with U of A students, faculty, staff and alumni to build upon our strengths as an institution and continue to lead in excellence here in Tucson and around the world."
At this time, Garimella's start date hasn't been determined and contract negotiations are still underway.
Garimella's appointment came after the previous president, Robert Robbins, announced his resignation in early April. At the time, the university and the board had been dealing with a $177 million budget shortfall.
Robbins will continue to serve in his role until Garimella begins, likely in late fall, the Arizona Board of Regents said.
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