TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — Governor Katie Hobbs demands a face-to-face meeting with the Arizona Board of Regents (ABOR) and University of Arizona (UA) President Dr. Robert Robbins amidst UA’s $177 million deficit.

Concerns and Responses

In a news release, Governor Hobbs expressed her concerns over the handling of the crisis, stating that ABOR had failed in their oversight role. She particularly highlighted the purchase and integration of Ashford University, now known as the University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC), where conflicting stories have emerged.

ABOR Chair Fred Duval responded, expressing the board’s commitment to transparency and detailing their efforts to provide accurate information to the Governor’s office and the public. Duval emphasized ABOR’s constitutional duty to oversee the state’s public universities and their shared interest in ensuring UA’s success.

Clashing Perspectives

Governor Hobbs also referenced recent tensions within ABOR, including conflicts between Duval and Faculty Chair Leila Hudson. Hudson suggested potential conflicts of interest due to DuVal’s past employment at a company providing financial services to universities. DuVal responded by retaining a lawyer, prompting Hobbs to criticize ABOR’s focus on personal grudges rather than addressing the university’s challenges.

Governor’s Firm Stance

Governor Hobbs reiterated her demand for accountability, emphasizing the impact of ABOR’s actions on university employees and college affordability. She called for immediate action to address the crisis, stating that continued scapegoating and lack of accountability were damaging to both Arizona’s reputation and the university’s future.

Urgent Need for Resolution

As tensions escalate amidst UA’s financial crisis, Governor Hobbs’ call for a meeting underscores the urgency of resolving the situation. With livelihoods at stake and reputational damage mounting, collaboration between state leadership, university officials, and governing bodies is imperative to chart a path forward for UA’s financial recovery and long-term success.

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