UVM Leader Appointed President of University of Arizona

— Suresh Garimella has been appointed as the new president of the University of Arizona, following a vote by the Arizona Board of Regents. Garimella, who has led the University of Vermont since 2019, will succeed Robert Robbins, who announced his intention to resign after seven years in office. Robbins' departure comes amid financial challenges for the university, including a budget shortfall attributed to miscalculations in cash reserves. Robbins has taken responsibility for the university's financial issues, which he noted were exacerbated by unpaid loans to the athletics department. He indicated that these financial strains were particularly pressing as the university prepares to transition from the Pacific-12 Conference to the Big 12 next year. Despite these challenges, Robbins has been recognized for his contributions to improving student retention rates and successfully leading fundraising efforts during his tenure. Garimella brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having previously served as the executive vice president for research and partnership at Purdue University. His leadership at the University of Vermont has been marked by a focus on academic excellence and community engagement, positioning him as a strong candidate to guide the University of Arizona through its current challenges. The University of Arizona, which enrolled approximately 42,000 undergraduates and 11,000 graduate students last academic year, is poised for a new chapter under Garimella's leadership as it navigates financial recovery and strategic growth.