Anne Kang, Minister of Advanced Education and Skills Training, has released the following statement on the news that University of British Columbia (UBC) president Santa Ono is moving on as of October 2022: 

“UBC has announced today that Santa Ono is moving on to assume the presidency of the University of Michigan, come October 2022. I want to thank Santa Ono for his outstanding leadership as the president of the University of British Columbia. 

“Ono joined UBC in 2016, and during his tenure he has made a lasting impact on students’ lives. Under his leadership, UBC has continued to grow its academic offerings while building infrastructure, such as new student housing, academic centres and research facilities. 

“Among his many accomplishments, he was instrumental in shaping UBC’s strategic plan and the university’s commitment to implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. He established a climate action plan and introduced the Anti-Racism and Inclusive Excellence Task Force to address systemic racism. His vision truly will have positive impacts on the lives of students for years to come.

“In addition to all this work, Ono led the university’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring UBC continued to support students and the province in the best possible way.

“Thank you, Santa Ono, for your commitment to lifelong learning. We wish you all the best with your next chapter as president of the University of Michigan.”