The University of Florida is set to hire Santa Ono, the current president of the University of Michigan, as its new school president, following a unanimous recommendation from the search committee. Ono's reputation for academic excellence and leadership at top institutions made him the only finalist for the position, which awaits confirmation by the Florida Board of Governors. He is replacing Kent Fuchs, who temporarily took over after Ben Sasse, a former U.S. Senator, resigned to focus on his family amid controversies over his spending as president. Ono, who previously led institutions like the University of British Columbia and the University of Cincinnati, is praised for his ability to engage effectively with various university stakeholders. His leadership at the University of Michigan was marked by adapting to federal pressures on diversity, equity, and inclusion practices while expanding support for low-income students through scholarships.

Santa Ono has been recommended as the sole candidate for the University of Florida's presidency due to his proven track record of leadership and innovation at prestigious institutions, awaiting confirmation from the Florida Board of Governors.

Ono's appointment comes after Kent Fuchs served as interim president following Ben Sasse's resignation amid controversies involving extravagant spending and preferential hiring practices.

Ono is known for his effective leadership and engagement with university communities, with prior roles at the University of British Columbia, the University of Cincinnati, and Emory University.

Ben Sasse, who left the U.S. Senate to become the university's president, resigned to focus on his family after his wife was diagnosed with epilepsy, and faced scrutiny over spending $1.3 million on private events.

Ono's leadership at the University of Michigan involved navigating the rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives due to federal pressures, while finding alternative ways to support students financially.

Rahul Patel, chair of the presidential search committee, expressed enthusiasm for Ono's potential to lead the University of Florida, emphasizing the university's unique position as the flagship institution of Florida.

The transition in leadership is seen as a pivotal moment for the University of Florida, with Ono expected to build on the momentum and engage with students, faculty, and administrators through upcoming campus visits.