Exciting Leadership Change: Grasso Appointed Interim President of the University of Michigan, Succeeding Santa Ono

ANN ARBOR, MI – The University of Michigan community has chosen its new interim president. Domenic Grasso, the chancellor of the Dearborn campus, will step into the role following the departure of Santa Ono, who recently accepted a position at the University of Florida.

Grasso, 69, has held the chancellorship since August 2018. With a background as a former U.S. Army major, he earned his doctorate in environmental engineering from the University of Michigan. His leadership at Dearborn has led to a notable 16% increase in graduation rates, alongside improvements in campus infrastructure, such as safer bike transportation.

The Board of Regents expressed confidence in Grasso’s ability to guide the university during this transitional phase. “President Grasso is a visionary leader,” they noted in a message to all campuses and Michigan Medicine. Grasso himself stated, “It’s an honor to serve. I promise to approach this role with energy and integrity.”

Grasso steps in after Ono’s announcement on May 4 that he would resign to pursue new opportunities in Florida. Ono’s tenure, which began in October 2022, was marked by significant challenges, including handling sexual misconduct allegations against former staff members and navigating budget cuts to diversity programs amid external pressures.

Public sentiment surrounding Ono’s presidency was mixed. While he pushed for improvements in athletics and campus expansion, he also faced backlash over his response to activism issues and federal funding threats during the previous administration. These events reflect ongoing debates in higher education about leadership, accountability, and the importance of community values.

As the university begins the search for a permanent president, the Board of Regents will formally announce Grasso’s interim role at their meeting on May 15. His deep ties to the university and proven leadership at Dearborn may provide stability in these uncertain times.

For more insights on issues in higher education, you can explore research studies on university leadership trends at Education Week.

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