Release Date: April 24,2020
Mayor Dan Horrigan Issues Statement Regarding President Miller’s Remarks “Redesigning the University of Akron”
Akron, Ohio, April 23, 2020 – Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan has issued the following statement regarding UA President Gary Miller’s remarks titled “Redesigning the University of Akron” released earlier today.
“The University of Akron is an indispensable partner in the economic, academic, and social well-being of Akron and the region. When Dr. Miller joined the University last year, he and I discussed the need to strategically align UA’s priorities to focus on core strengths and fiscal stability. However, these priorities have become exponentially more urgent in light of the economic and community impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
I know that the University of Akron will confront these new challenges with the grit and optimism that personifies the Akron community. Today, Dr. Miller has announced that they will do what is necessary to redesign the University to be leaner, more integrated, and even more responsive to business and community needs.
I applaud President Miller for acting swiftly to respond to these challenging new realities, and for his continued commitment to shared governance. As a fellow leader, I understand the University’s need to reduce expenses to align with unforeseen revenue losses, and the gravity of the unwelcome but necessary decisions that lie ahead. I stand ready to assist and support President Miller and the Board of Trustees, in ensuring that the University of Akron that emerges from this crisis is strong, inclusive, and community-oriented.
Businesses, industries, and students from across the region will be looking to the University of Akron as a resource and engine of advancement during our economic recovery, and I am confident that UA will rise to the occasion, as they have for 150 years.
Because, as Dr. Miller reminded us in his remarks: “We are Akron. We rise together.” - Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan