The University of Florida is already one of the major public universities in the United States. But this has the potential to be the best. This belief (in UF’s momentum, its mission and future) is what makes me pursue extraordinary opportunities for the UF presidency.
University of Florida
Over the past few weeks, I have had the opportunity to spend meaningful time under the leadership of the university. I deeply believe in their vision: ambitious, based on a culture of excellence, with lasers as a focus on student success. My passion for this institution – including meeting its students, faculty and executives during a visit to campus earlier this week – is contagious, and consistency between the board, board, board, governor, and legislature is rare in higher education. This unity indicates the severity of the goal and tells me that Florida is building something truly special. I’m so happy to be a part of it.
I believe in Florida’s vision for higher education. I understand its priorities and support them. I will execute this vision with clarity, consistency and integrity. I promoted my name to this position because I agree with the national leadership’s vision and values for public higher education. My consistency stems from principles – for example, the focus is on performance, citizenship and enhancement of basic learning, and our universities should prepare not only for careers but also for informed citizens in free societies.
Public universities have a responsibility to maintain academic excellence, intellectual diversity and student achievement. This means rejecting ideological capture, upholding the rule of law and creating a culture that allows strict thinking and open dialogue to flourish. I share this commitment.
Like many people, I support what I think is the original intention of dei – ensuring equal and fair opportunities for every student. This is something most people agree with. But over time, I saw how Dei became something else – more importantly ideology, division and bureaucracy, not student success. That’s why as the University of Michigan President, I decided to redirect resources to academic support and performance-based achievements. It is not universally popular, but it is necessary. I stick with it – I will bring the same goal for UF.
The future of higher education depends on a clear mission, a culture of excellence and accountability, and a profound commitment to thrive in the real world for students. This means strengthening partnerships with businesses, supporting agriculture and innovation, and ensuring that every student (without background) has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
I also understand the challenges of leadership in today’s academic environment. While leading other public universities, I refused to politicize institutions or openly oppose state politicians. I do this because I believe universities must act as a platform for learning, not partisanship or ideological activism.
Fighting anti-Semitism has always been a top priority in my entire career. I work closely with Jewish students, faculty and community leaders to ensure that the campus is a place of respect, safety and inclusion for all. I know that the University of Florida has always been a national leader in this regard – mastering the gold standard in its firm opposition to anti-Semitism and hatred. Under my leadership, this standard will not change. I will continue to make sure that UF is a place where Jewish students feel fully supported, and that all forms of hatred and discrimination are clearly confronted.
Finally, peaceful protests have a place in campus life. But the University of Florida is not a place for vandalism, intimidation, or violations. If I get approval, UF will continue to be a safe campus for all students, where different opinions can be heard and respect for the rule of law.
It’s an exciting time for Florida and the University of Florida. I am honored to be a part of it. I’m ready to go to work.
