Tucson Standard

The Arizona Board of Regents has approved Suresh Garimella's contract to serve as the next president of the University of Arizona. Garimella will assume his new role on October 1.

"The board is proud to welcome Dr. Garimella to Arizona," said ABOR Chair Cecilia Mata. "We have high expectations for both the University of Arizona and its new president. He is a tireless champion for students and has the experience, vision, and steadfast leadership needed to guide our state's oldest university into the future."

Garimella has already begun engaging with campus and community members during a recent visit.

"It is an honor to lead the University of Arizona. I believe strongly in the university's land-grant mission to educate a talented and diverse student body and serve the state of Arizona," Garimella said. "The U of A's reputation for world-class research and innovation, academics, athletics, and the arts is a result of the incredible work of faculty, staff, students, alumni, and friends, and I cannot wait to join the effort. With gratitude to the Arizona Board of Regents and Presidential Search Advisory Committee, I am proud to be a Wildcat."

The board's decision follows a comprehensive national search led by the U of A Presidential Search Advisory Committee. Over five months, this 18-member committee gathered feedback from campus and community stakeholders while vetting candidates.

"Dr. Garimella's strong emphasis on student success aligns with the University of Arizona community's priorities," said Melanie Hingle, U of A professor of nutritional sciences and wellness and member of the Presidential Search Advisory Committee. "As a fellow scholar, our new president possesses the vision, experience, and skills to tackle our challenges and lead the U of A to new heights of excellence, access, and impact."

Garimella succeeds President Robert C. Robbins who has led the university since 2017. Robbins will remain in his role until Garimella begins.