Michael V. Drake, the first Black president of the University of California, announced his plans to step down at the end of the 2024-2025 school year after five years of leading the university system through the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic, labor strikes, and campus protests. During his tenure, Drake focused on increasing enrollment and accessibility for underrepresented students, securing a 5% annual budget increase from the state, and implementing initiatives such as free tuition for Native American students from federally recognized tribes. Before serving as president, Drake held leadership positions at the University of California, Irvine, The Ohio State University, and the National Collegiate Athletic Association, in addition to being a trained physician and professor of ophthalmology. Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom praised Drake’s leadership and legacy in higher education, stating that he has paved a brighter path forward for California by growing the next generation of leaders. The University of California, which enrolls nearly 300,000 students, is the second-largest university system in the state behind California State University. Overall, Drake is recognized for his commitment to upholding UC values and leaving the institution in better shape than before, making a positive impact on the lives of Californians through research, teaching, and public service.
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UC President to resign after 5 years shaped by pandemic and campus protests
