Eugene G. Sander, dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and UA vice provost, was named interim president today. 

Sander’s appointment was confirmed by the Arizona Board of Regents during a public call. He replaces outgoing President Robert Shelton, who resigned on Monday to take a position as executive director of the Fiesta Bowl.

“”I’m honored that the Arizona Board of Regents has asked me to accept the leadership of the university and continue President Robert Shelton’s excellent work,”” Sander said in a release. “”The University of Arizona is both a state and national treasure that has an excellent management team. I’m really enthused about joining that team as we move forward this next year.””

Sander, who has worked at the UA for 24 years, had previously announced his intention to retire from his current position as dean at the end of the month. Sander has held various positions in his time at the UA, and served as interim provost for several months before current Provost Meredith Hay was hired. 

“”Dr. Sander is not only an accomplished academic leader, he is also a very well-respected member of the UA and Tucson community who will easily transition into the role of president,”” said Regents Chair Anne Mariucci in a release. “”I am very confident that Dr. Sander will be a steady hand at the helm during our search for a permanent president.””

The regents have also begun a national search to find a permanent replacement for Shelton. Regents Dennis DeConcini and Rick Myers will helm the search committee and a new president is expected to be named sometime next summer.