🦁 Wildcat Wonder: Robbins' 7-Year Roar at UofA Comes to an End
🦁 Wildcat Wonder: Robbins' 7-Year Roar at UofA Comes to an End
🚀 From $600M to $1B: How Robbins Launched UofA's Research Revolution 🦠 Masked Maverick: Robbins' COVID Playbook Kept UofA Open and Growing
Based on the 9/23/24 Jump In Tucson Show on KVOI-1030AM.
🙊 Takeaway quotes from the show
"These have been professionally the best seven years of my life." - Dr. Robert Robbins, reflecting on his tenure as UofA President
"I think the most important thing that has occurred in health in the last 25 years is mapping the human genome. I think for the next 25 years, it will be a better understanding of the human immunome." - Dr. Robbins, explaining the importance of the CAMI initiative
"I want to take some time to focus on writing and doing some research and reflection on higher education and the challenges, particularly around finances, around health care policy and around the incredible challenges that we have with intercollegiate and athletics." - Dr. Robbins, discussing his future plans
"Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened." - Dr. Robbins, quoting Dr. Seuss via Dartmouth football coach Buddy Tevens to describe his feelings about leaving UofA
⏮️ ICYMI: From the Last Show…
😽 Keepin’ It Simple Summary for Younger Readers
👧🏾✊🏾👦🏾
👨🏫 Dr. Robbins, the boss of the University of Arizona, is leaving after 7 years. 🏫 He helped the school grow bigger and do more cool science stuff. 🦠 During COVID, he kept school open and helped give out vaccines. 🧑🔬 He started new projects to study how our bodies fight sickness. 🏥 He's also building a new high school to teach kids about health jobs. 🎨 The school got really good at dance and sports too! 👋 Even though he's leaving, Dr. Robbins says he'll always love the University of Arizona.
🗝️ Takeaways
🚀 Research expenditures soared from $600 million to $1 billion under Robbins
📈 Enrollment grew 3-4% annually, even during the pandemic
🦠 UofA became a major COVID vaccination site while keeping classes open
🧬 CAMI initiative positions UofA at the forefront of immunology research
🏫 New J-TED Health Sciences High School aims to diversify healthcare pipeline
🎨 Arts programs, especially dance, achieved national recognition
🏀 Robbins emphasized athletics as crucial for university marketing and fundraising
📻 What They Discussed
On September 23rd, 2024, the radio show "Jump in Tucson," hosted by Dr. Ed Ackerley, featured a special guest: Dr. Robert Robbins, the outgoing president of the University of Arizona. As Robbins concludes his seven-year tenure, he reflects on his achievements, challenges, and vision for the institution's future. The interview provided a comprehensive look at the state of the University of Arizona under Robbins' leadership and offered insights into the evolving landscape of higher education.
🎓 A Presidency in Review: Robbins' Seven-Year Journey at UofA
Dr. Robert Robbins' presidency at the University of Arizona has been marked by significant growth and transformation. Since taking the helm in 2017, Robbins has overseen a dramatic increase in research expenditures, from $600 million to an anticipated $1 billion in the current year. This growth has been particularly pronounced in the health sciences, reflecting Robbins' background as a heart surgeon and his strategic focus on medical research.
Robbins implemented a five-pillar strategic plan, with student success as the primary focus. This emphasis on students has translated into consistent enrollment growth, with the university welcoming its largest, most diverse, and most academically accomplished incoming classes for six consecutive years. Even during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the university managed to maintain a 3-4% annual growth in enrollment.
Throughout his tenure, Robbins has described his role as "the most joyful, blessed time of my professional life," highlighting the unique opportunities and challenges of leading a major research university. His leadership style, characterized by accessibility (including sharing his personal cell phone number with students) and a focus on positive outcomes, has shaped the university's culture and approach to problem-solving.
🦠 Navigating the Pandemic: UofA's COVID-19 Response
One of the defining challenges of Robbins' tenure was the COVID-19 pandemic. In response to this unprecedented crisis, Robbins collaborated with former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Richard Carmona to implement an Incident Command System. This approach allowed the university to rapidly adapt to changing circumstances and maintain operations while prioritizing safety.
Under Robbins' leadership, the University of Arizona became one of the largest vaccination sites in the region, with a drive-through facility at the university mall. The decision to keep classes open, albeit with safety precautions and online options for vulnerable individuals, was controversial but ultimately successful. Robbins credits this approach, along with the university's strong academic programs and attractive campus environment, for maintaining student enrollment growth even during the pandemic.
The experience of leading through the COVID-19 crisis has reinforced Robbins' belief in the importance of public health leadership in higher education and demonstrated the university's capacity to leverage its medical expertise in times of crisis.
🧬 CAMI: Betting on the Future of Immunology
One of the most significant initiatives of Robbins' tenure is the Center for Advanced Molecular and Immunological Therapies (CAMI). This project, set to have its ribbon-cutting ceremony in Phoenix in the coming weeks, represents a major investment in the future of medical research.
Robbins sees CAMI as a response to what he considers the most important development in health over the past 25 years: human genome mapping. He predicts that for the next 25 years, a better understanding of the human immunome - the body's immunological responses - will be crucial in advancing treatments for various conditions, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, dementia, and autoimmune disorders.
The leadership of CAMI by Dr. Deepta Bhattacharya, whom Robbins describes as "brilliant," underscores the university's commitment to cutting-edge research in this field. This initiative not only positions the University of Arizona at the forefront of immunological research but also has the potential to drive economic development and attract top talent to the region.
🏥 Building the Pipeline: J-TED Health Sciences High School
Another key initiative highlighted by Robbins is the upcoming J-TED Health Sciences High School. Inspired by the Michael E. DeBakey High School for Health Professions in Houston, this project aims to create a pipeline for South Tucson students to pursue healthcare careers.
Robbins sees this high school as an opportunity to address healthcare workforce shortages and provide pathways to success for students from underserved communities. By exposing students to health sciences early in their academic careers, the university hopes to inspire and prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals, from technicians and nurses to surgeons and researchers.
This initiative reflects Robbins' broader vision of the university's community development role and commitment to expanding access to higher education and career opportunities in the health sciences.
🎭 Arts and Athletics: The University's Front Porch
Robbins emphasizes the importance of arts and athletics as the "front porches" of the university - the most visible and accessible aspects of the institution to the general public. He highlighted the nationally recognized dance program, housed in the Stevie Eller Dance Theater, as an example of the university's artistic excellence.
However, Robbins also acknowledged the need for infrastructure improvements in the arts. He mentioned the need for a new art museum, noting that the university's collection is of higher quality than the building that houses it. He also discussed the potential renovation of Centennial Hall, a project he hopes will come to fruition in the future to restore the venue to its former glory.
In athletics, Robbins emphasized the marketing and philanthropic benefits of successful sports programs. He sees athletic success, particularly in high-profile sports like basketball and football, as a driver of student applications, alumni engagement, and overall university recognition. This perspective underscores modern university presidents' complex role, balancing academic excellence with public engagement and financial sustainability.
🔬 Research Growth and Academic Excellence
Under Robbins' leadership, the University of Arizona has seen significant growth in research expenditures, approaching the $1 billion mark. This growth has been particularly pronounced in the health sciences, but Robbins also highlighted achievements in other areas, such as optical sciences and quantum networking.
The increase in research funding enhances the university's academic reputation and contributes to economic development in the region. Robbins sees this research growth as essential to the university's mission as a land-grant institution and its status as a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU).
🌐 Looking to the Future: Challenges and Opportunities
As Robbins prepares to step down from the presidency, he reflected on the challenges facing higher education and his plans for the future. He expressed interest in writing and researching issues related to higher education finances, healthcare policy, and the changing landscape of intercollegiate athletics.
Robbins plans to remain involved with the University of Arizona through the Department of Surgery and is open to the possibility of leading another university in the future. He emphasized his commitment to supporting the incoming president, Dr. Garamella and continuing the tradition of former UA presidents remaining engaged with the institution.
The interview concluded with Robbins expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to serve as president and his enduring connection to the University of Arizona. As he put it, "I'll always be a Wildcat at heart," reflecting the deep impact his tenure has had on both the institution and his own professional journey.
From the Arizona Republic:
University of Arizona President Robert Robbins likely will join the school's Department of Surgery as a tenured faculty member immediately after the end of his presidency.
Robbins’ proposed contract amendment, which will be voted on at the Arizona Board of Regents' meeting on Sept. 26, does not include a substantial pay cut for the outgoing president.
Robbins currently makes a base salary of roughly $734,400 through June 2026. Those stipulations remain largely unchanged, with a proposed salary of $734,407.20 with the same retirement contributions and car allowance.
🦉 Three Sonorans Commentary
The Bleeding Continues: Robbins' Resignation and UA's Need for a Clean Slate
Robbins' tenure has been marked by missteps and controversies that go far beyond simple budgetary mismanagement. The acquisition of Ashford University, now known as the University of Arizona Global Campus, stands out as a particularly egregious example of poor judgment and lack of transparency. The Arizona Republic's revelation that Robbins was aware of the financial risks associated with Ashford before the acquisition contradicts his public statements and raises serious questions about his integrity.
The financial crisis that has engulfed the university, leading to a $177 million shortfall, is not merely a result of external factors or post-pandemic realities. It is a direct consequence of a leadership style that prioritizes the centralization of power over responsible stewardship of resources.
As Leila Hudson, the elected chair of the UA faculty, pointedly stated, "The institution is a wealthy institution, but the perspective from the faculty, the crisis has been the mismanagement of our abundant resources."
Robbins' approach to crisis management has been particularly troubling. His refusal to engage with local media and the broader Tucson community demonstrates a disregard for the public's right to know and understand their flagship university's challenges. This lack of transparency has only fueled distrust and speculation, further eroding his credibility.
Student leader Eddie Barron noted the sudden halt of the Guaranteed Tuition Program, just one example of how Robbins' decisions have directly impacted the most vulnerable members of the university community. Like many others, this move seems to prioritize short-term financial gains over students' long-term well-being and stability.
Perhaps most alarming is the revelation that Robbins, far from making a clean break, is set to seamlessly transition into a cushy tenured faculty position in the Department of Surgery with virtually no reduction in his exorbitant salary. This golden parachute, pending approval by the Arizona Board of Regents, would see Robbins continue to draw a staggering $734,407.20 annually, complete with retirement contributions and car allowance.
This arrangement is a slap in the face to the university community, echoing the troubling precedent set by former CFO Lisa Rulney, who remains on the payroll despite no longer serving in her role. The university cannot afford this perpetuation of failed leadership and financial excess, especially given the urgent need for genuine fiscal responsibility and structural reforms. This move only further entrenches the culture of unaccountability that has plagued the institution under Robbins' tenure.
As senior systems administrator Spencer Gantt rightly points out, "This administration and the administrators on this campus continually ignore the will of students, faculty, and staff." A clean slate is not just desirable; it is essential for the future of the University of Arizona.
The University of Arizona, as a land-grant institution built on stolen O'odham land, has a responsibility to serve all members of our community, particularly those who have been historically marginalized and underserved. This includes students from diverse backgrounds and the workers, staff, and faculty who make the university function daily.
The bleeding at the University of Arizona must stop, but it cannot stop with half-measures and delayed resignations. Our community deserves accountable, transparent, and committed leadership to the public good. Only with an actual clean slate can the healing begin.
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👯 People Mentioned
Dr. Robert Robbins: Outgoing President of the University of Arizona
Dr. Ed Ackerley: Host of Jump in Tucson radio show
Dr. Richard Carmona: Former U.S. Surgeon General who helped with UofA's COVID response
Michael Drummond: Recipient of Jarvik artificial heart at UofA
Jack Copeland: Former chief of cardiac surgery at UofA
Lute Olson: Legendary UofA basketball coach
Tommy Lloyd: Current UofA basketball coach
Jedd Fisch: (Assumed to be) UofA football coach
Adia Barnes: (Assumed to be) UofA women's basketball coach
Dr. Michael Dake: Senior Vice President for Health Affairs at UofA
Mike Proctor: Mentioned in context of COVID-19 response team
Dr. Deepta Bhattacharya: Leader of CAMI initiative
Dr. Michael DeBakey: Namesake of health sciences high school in Houston
Dr. Jeff Felser: Chair of Surgery at UofA
Steve Moore: Mentioned in context of UofA leadership
Mitch: Briefly mentioned, possibly a colleague of Dr. Ackerley
John Gordon: Mentioned in context of positive leadership philosophy
President Garamella: Incoming President of the University of Arizona
President Likins, President Shelton, President Pacheco, President Koffler: Former Presidents of the University of Arizona
🧐 Propaganda AI-nalysis
This interview with Dr. Robbins on Jump in Tucson contains several propagandistic elements:
Positive framing: The interview consistently presents Robbins' tenure in a highly positive light, emphasizing successes and downplaying challenges.
Emotional appeals: Both the host and Robbins use emotional language to describe the university and Robbins' experiences.
Selective information: The interview focuses primarily on successes, with limited discussion of controversies or challenges faced during Robbins' tenure.
Repetition: Certain themes, such as research growth and enrollment increases, are repeated throughout the interview.
Authority figure: Robbins is presented as a highly successful leader, leveraging his position to lend credibility to his statements.
Local pride: The show appeals to local pride in the University of Arizona.
Future promises: Discussion of future developments like CAMI and the J-TED High School creates excitement without the ability to evaluate actual outcomes.
Personalization: The interview humanizes Robbins through personal anecdotes and reflections.
Bandwagon effect: References to record enrollments and research funding create a sense that the university is universally successful and supported.
Testimonial: The host's personal endorsement of Robbins' leadership adds weight to the positive framing of his tenure.
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