University of Florida Chooses Stuart Bell for President Over Some Conservative Criticism
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- The University of Florida’s board unanimously selected Stuart R. Bell as the next president, following a two-year search after Ben Sasse’s resignation.
- The state university system’s board must still approve Bell’s appointment, a step typically considered a formality but previously blocked a candidate.
- Bell served as president of the University of Alabama for ten years, where he expanded enrollment, boosted research status, and engaged in Southeastern Conference athletics.
- Bell pledged to elevate the University of Florida into the top three public universities in the U.S. News & World Report rankings, aligning with the board president’s vision.
- The selection reflects a preference for a leader with a traditional academic background, as Bell has held roles including engineering dean, provost, and professor before his presidency at Alabama.