Tucson Standard

University of Arizona President Suresh V. Garimella was formally installed as the institution's 23rd president during a ceremony held at Centennial Hall. In his address, Garimella compared the university to the iconic saguaro cactus, describing it as a "keystone institution" for the state.

Garimella addressed a full audience that included community members and state dignitaries, emphasizing the importance of three strategic imperatives: access and success for every student, research that shapes the future, and engagement with communities to create opportunities together.

Carlos Gonzales, associate dean for Indigenous affairs in the College of Health Sciences, opened the event with a Yaqui blessing and read a land acknowledgment recognizing that the campus is on O'odham and Yaqui homelands. The ceremony featured U of A traditions such as performances by Wilbur and Wilma T. Wildcat mascots, along with contributions from the Pride of Arizona Marching Band and Color Guard.

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs attended and spoke about higher education's value while praising Garimella's dedication to maintaining U of A’s land-grant mission. "As Arizona's land-grant university, U of A was established with the purpose of removing barriers to higher education," she said.

ABOR Chair Cecilia Mata officiated Garimella's investiture. She highlighted his ability to connect with people to drive innovation: "What truly sets him apart is how he channels that knowledge."

Garimella concluded his speech by proposing new five Cs for U of A: community, collaboration, culture, curiosity, and "cactus and canyon." He called on attendees to unite behind the university’s mission.

"From me, you will get an unwavering and disciplined focus on our North Star," he stated.