I am very pleased to announce that the UC Board of Regents earlier today approved the appointment of Mark G. Yudof as president of the University of California. President-designate Yudof will begin work at UC this summer. A press release from the UC Office of the President on today's action is now available.
As head of the University of Texas system since 2002, Yudof has been an effective, passionate voice for academic and research excellence, student accessibility and campus diversity.
In his earlier service as president of the University of Minnesota, Yudof was a tenacious, effective advocate for support from state political leaders. Under his leadership, the University of Minnesota four-campus system earned increased national prominence and enhanced public and private financial support.
A former law professor, Yudof also served as a dean and provost at the University of Texas's Austin campus. From this experience, he understands the importance of attracting and retaining top students, faculty, and staff.
Mark Yudof is an outstanding choice to lead our 10-campus system. He brings to UC extensive leadership experience, intellectual depth, uncommon political acumen, and a genuine, down-to-earth nature that will serve him well as he tackles the unique opportunities and challenges facing UC and each of its campuses.
UC campus chancellors met with Yudof this morning prior to the Regent's vote. I was heartened by his unbridled enthusiasm for UC, clear appreciation for its greatness, and devotion to leading us to even greater distinction as the world's preeminent public university.
I'm also convinced that Mark Yudof will help UC Santa Cruz continue on its upward trajectory as a top-ranked research university and the leading provider of top-quality undergraduate and graduate education. I look forward to welcoming him to our campus when he begins his presidency.
