ANN ARBOR (WWJ) – The University of Michigan has named Santa Ono the school’s new president.
The 59-year-old Ono, a biomedical researcher, had been president at the University of British Columbia for six years.
The Board of Regents voted unanimously to appoint Ono to the position. He will begin on Oct. 13.
Ono called it a “privilege and honor” to serve as president.
“Everyone knows the power of maize and blue when it comes to big time and Big Ten intercollegiate athletics,” Ono said Wednesday. “The breadth and quality of activity here makes this university exceptional and so integral to this society, to this state, but also for the world.
Ono will take over from Mary Sue Coleman, who had been serving as the school’s president after former president Mark Schlissel was removed from the post in January for having an inappropriate relationship with an employee.
School officials say Ono will serve a five-year term and receive a base salary of $975,000, subject to annual increases at the Board of Regents' discretion, and $350,000 in deferred compensation starting after the first year.
He also will receive regular university benefits and supplemental contributions to a retirement plan, housing in the President's House, an expense allowance, and use of an automobile and a driver, all in accordance with university policies, according to a release from the school.
Related
The school calls Ono “an experienced vision researcher whose pioneering work in experimental medicine focuses on the immune system and eye disease.”
“His track record of leadership at universities in the United States and Canada includes prioritizing sustainability efforts, strong advocacy for mental health issues and an open communication style,” the school said.
“He also has focused on accessibility and affordability in higher education through service in organizations such as the Posse Foundation, leadership of the Urban Health Initiative of the Coalition of Urban Serving Universities and launching new programs at the universities he has served. At UBC, he led substantial efforts focused on truth and reconciliation for indigenous groups and others.”
Related
