Suresh Garimella has the right experience to stabilize the University of Arizona. But it won’t be easy to fix his predecessor’s mistakes.
The University of Arizona (UA) has a rich history, dating back to its establishment in 1885. Located in Tucson, the Wildcats have a unique tradition of having a live bobcat named Rufus as their mascot. However, recent years have seen the university face challenges that have impacted its reputation and financial stability.
Suresh Garimella, the newly appointed president of the University of Arizona, comes with an impressive background. With a strong foundation in mechanical engineering, experience as a board member of the National Science Foundation, and a successful tenure as president of the University of Vermont, Garimella brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role. His track record of growing enrollment and capping tuition rates has garnered praise from faculty, regents, and members of the UA presidential search committee.
Despite Garimella’s impressive credentials, he faces a daunting task in addressing the challenges left behind by his predecessor. One of the key issues he must tackle is the troubled for-profit online school that UA acquired in 2020. The University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC), formerly known as Ashford University, has faced criticism for its low graduation rates and allegations of misleading students about the value of their degrees.
Garimella’s success in turning around UAGC will be crucial in restoring the university’s reputation and financial stability. While he has experience overseeing a similar acquisition at Purdue University, the unique challenges faced by UAGC present a formidable obstacle. With graduation rates significantly lower than other online programs, Garimella will need to implement better counseling and transparency measures to improve student outcomes.
In addition to addressing the issues at UAGC, Garimella must also focus on improving the overall online education offerings at UA. A recent study by Ernst and Young highlighted the need for increased investment in successful student outcomes at both UAGC and Arizona Online. With graduation rates hovering between 15% and 20%, there is room for improvement in both programs.
Furthermore, Garimella must navigate the challenges of declining enrollment and rising tuition costs facing all universities. The need to rehabilitate the University of Arizona brand and address the concerns raised by faculty and the community regarding the Ashford University deal will require strategic planning and effective communication.
Despite the obstacles ahead, Garimella’s appointment provides an opportunity for UA to reset and move forward from a tumultuous period. With the support of faculty and the community, he has the potential to effect meaningful change. However, it will take time and dedication to address the issues plaguing the university and set it on a path towards success.
In conclusion, Suresh Garimella’s leadership will be crucial in stabilizing the University of Arizona and addressing the challenges left by his predecessor. With his experience and expertise, he has the potential to steer UA in the right direction. By focusing on improving student outcomes, increasing transparency, and addressing the issues at UAGC and Arizona Online, Garimella can pave the way for a brighter future for the university.
