The University of Florida's board of trustees has approved Santa Ono, former president of the University of Michigan, to become the next president, pending final approval by the Florida Board of Governors. Ono will succeed Kent Fuchs, who served as interim president after Ben Sasse's departure amid controversy over spending and staffing issues.
The University of Florida has eliminated all Diversity, Equity and Inclusion employee positions in response to the Florida Board of Governors' prohibition on related expenditures, prompting criticism and support. Governor Ron DeSantis praised the move, while affected employees will receive 12 weeks of pay and are encouraged to apply for other positions at the university. The university plans to reallocate $5 million into a faculty recruitment fund and emphasized its commitment to universal human dignity and fostering a community of trust and respect.
The Florida Board of Governors has approved the financing plan for the University of South Florida's new on-campus stadium, which is set to open in fall 2026. The 35,000-seat stadium will host USF football and women's lacrosse, as well as concerts and other events, and is expected to enhance campus culture, serve as a recruiting tool, and raise the university's profile. The estimated cost of the stadium is $340 million, with funding coming from various sources including operating revenues, capital gifts, and proceeds from a 2017 FCC auction. The approval follows a $25 million gift from Tampa General Hospital for the university's athletics district.