Santa Ono Resigns to Lead University of Florida
Dr. Santa Ono, President of University of Michigan, has announced his departure to become the next president of the University of Florida. The announcement came just days after U-M’s Spring 2025 Commencement and a recent contract extension meant to keep him in Ann Arbor through 2032.
Ono to Assume Role at UF Following Summer Transition
In a message shared with the U-M community Sunday evening, Dr. Ono revealed he has been selected as the sole finalist for the presidency at the University of Florida. Pending final approval by UF’s Board of Governors, he expects to assume the new position later this summer.
“Serving as your president these past three academic years has been a distinct honor,” Santa Ono wrote. “Michigan — and the people of this state — have forever captured my heart.”
The University of Florida officially confirmed his selection, citing his strong background in academic leadership and innovative initiatives at global institutions.
A Legacy of Innovation and Expansion at the University of Michigan
Ono, a vision researcher and seasoned academic leader, joined the University of Michigan in March 2023. During his tenure, he led several key initiatives focused on sustainability, artificial intelligence, and expanding access to education. Notable achievements under his leadership include:
- The expansion of the Go Blue Guarantee, offering free tuition to in-state students from households earning $125,000 or less.
- A renewed push in AI research and sustainable innovation.
- Launch of the $7 billion “Look to Michigan” fundraising campaign, now over halfway to its goal.
- Establishment of the Raoul Wallenberg Institute to combat antisemitism.
- Announcement of a forthcoming Institute on Civic Discourse aimed at promoting public dialogue and mutual understanding.
“These accomplishments are a testament to the collaborative spirit and dedication of the university community,” Ono noted in his farewell message.
Santa Ono’s Leadership Amid Controversy
While widely respected for his inclusive leadership style, Ono’s time at U-M was not without challenges. His administration faced mounting pressure over campus protests surrounding the Gaza War. Activist groups criticized the university for failing to divest from companies doing business with Israel, while others accused the institution of inaction toward rising Islamophobia and antisemitism on campus.
In a controversial move, U-M announced the closure of its Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion earlier this year. The decision, framed as a reallocation of resources toward student-facing programs like financial aid, drew backlash amid concerns of political pressure following anti-DEI campaigns by former President Donald Trump.
Ono’s home and those of other U-M officials were targeted in acts of vandalism during protests, including graffiti and property damage.
Santa Ono’s Salary, Contract, and Career Background
Ono initially signed a five-year contract in 2023, earning $975,000 annually plus $350,000 in deferred compensation. In October 2024, the U-M Board of Regents extended his contract through 2032, increasing his base salary to $1.3 million. His sudden departure shortly after the extension has sparked questions from both students and faculty.
Before joining U-M, Ono served as president of the University of British Columbia and the University of Cincinnati. He is internationally recognized for his academic contributions to immunology and eye disease research.
What’s Next for the University of Michigan?
With Ono’s departure now imminent, the University of Michigan will begin the search for its 16th president. The Board of Regents has not yet announced an interim replacement or search timeline.
University spokesperson Kay Jarvis confirmed that all publicly available information about Ono’s resignation has been shared through the president’s email message.
Final Words from President Santa Ono
Despite the controversies, Ono leaves behind a transformative legacy at one of the nation’s top public universities.
“It has been a profound privilege to be part of this extraordinary community,” he wrote. “I have every confidence that Michigan’s extraordinary momentum will continue under strong future leadership.”
