
Photo: Kirthmon F. Dozier ~ USA TODAY NETWORK
ANN ARBOR, May 5, 2025 ~ In a surprising turn of events, University of Michigan President Santa Ono has announced his intention to step down and take on the presidency at the University of Florida. This unexpected move comes less than three years into his impactful tenure at U of M, leaving the institution in search of new leadership.
PODCAST:
May 5, 2025 ~ Crain’s Detroit Managing Business Editor Mike Lee talks on “‘JR Morning” about University of Michigan President Santa Ono stepping down after less than three years, Michigan‘s unique and thriving market for Michigan-themed merchandise, and new legislation in Lansing requiring lawmakers to disclose earmark requests.
(CONTINUED) “I think it was a surprise that he’s leaving, not only to us, but even to the Board of Regents at U of M, who will now be going back to the well to find a new president, which is not an easy task at an institution the size of the University of Michigan,” Crains Detroit Business Managing Editor Mike Lee told 760 WJR’s “’JR Morning.”
During his tenure, Ono spearheaded significant initiatives, including the expansion of the U of M health system with plans for a massive outpatient center in Troy and residential projects in Ann Arbor. He also oversaw the groundbreaking of the Detroit Center for Innovation. Despite the surprise and disappointment, Ono’s leadership has left a lasting impact on the university, and his departure marks a challenging period as U of M seeks new leadership to continue its trajectory of growth and innovation.
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