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Dr. Kent Fuchs became the 12th President of the University of Florida in January 2015. Building on many years of excellence and focused leadership, the university has since reached its goal of joining the nation’s Top 5 public research universities.
I’ve spent my career as a professor and academic leader at Cornell University, Purdue and the University of Illinois. With perspective born of that experience, I am deeply impressed by UF – the superb faculty, accomplished students and influential alumni; the depth of the university’s contribution to Florida’s growth and prosperity and the needs of the people of the nation and world; the beauty of a historic campus set off with palm trees and magnolias.
During my time on UF’s campus, I’ve also been struck by the widespread sense of energy and aspiration. Whether teaching, pursuing research, serving the world, or helping to run the university, faculty and staff are excited about their work and its potential – and that excitement is infectious. With a strong feeling of aspiration and sense of purpose, I have full confidence that the University of Florida will continue to build its stature as one of the nation’s top public universities.
As for Gainesville, there is a warmth – literal and figurative – and a kindness about this community that seems perfectly suited for the “home away from home” for 50,000 young people from Florida and around the world. Gainesville has wisely positioned innovation as its guidepost for growth and national prominence, building on the intellectual advancements and creativity of UF’s students and faculty.
It is a privilege to lead this university, and to call Gainesville home. Whether you’re visiting online or in person, I wish you a warm welcome, and I invite you to explore our strengths, experience all we have to offer and share in our dreams for the future.