After serving as the president of the University of California for five years, Janet Napolitano has announced her decision to step down from her position. Napolitano’s tenure has been marked by significant challenges, most notably the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and protests on campus.
Napolitano, the former Secretary of Homeland Security under President Obama, took on the role of University of California president in 2013. During her time in office, she focused on improving access to higher education for underrepresented students, increasing diversity on campus, and addressing issues related to affordability and accessibility.
However, her leadership faced criticism during the coronavirus pandemic, as students and faculty raised concerns about the university’s response to the crisis. Napolitano also faced challenges related to protests on campus, particularly around issues of racial justice and police violence.
Despite these challenges, Napolitano leaves behind a legacy of accomplishments, including efforts to expand financial aid for low-income students, increase funding for research and innovation, and improve sustainability practices across the university system.
The process to select Napolitano’s successor is currently underway, with the university’s Board of Regents expected to appoint an interim president while a search for a permanent replacement is conducted.
In a statement following her announcement, Napolitano expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve as the University of California president, and highlighted the resilience and dedication of the university community during challenging times. She will remain in her position until August 2020, when she officially steps down.
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