UVM president to take University of Arizona job

BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – The president of the University of Vermont will be taking the top job at the University of Arizona.

UVM president Suresh Garimella on Friday was officially hired as the school’s next president following a final interview, according to the school’s board of regents.

The board touts what they call Garimella’s strength in creating better state and community relationships as well as doubling the university’s research funding since his arrival in 2019.

“I am honored to be chosen by the board as the next president of the University of Arizona,” Garimella said in a statement. “I have long admired the U of A and its stature in the state of Arizona and far beyond. The institution demonstrates the best qualities of a land-grant university with exceptional leadership in research and health sciences, highly acclaimed faculty and staff, and a diverse student population comprised of the best and brightest from around the world.

The current University of Arizona president plans to step down when his contract ends in June 2026.

UVM officials did not immediately respond to calls for comment.