UCLA Chancellor Gene Block has announced his decision to step down next summer, concluding his leadership of the prestigious public university he has overseen since 2007.
Block’s impressive career spans 29 years at the University of Virginia, where he not only served as vice president but also gained valuable experience before joining UCLA.
In a heartfelt statement, Block expressed his deep connection to UCLA, referring to it as his community and home, a constant source of inspiration, and an integral part of his identity. He further described his role as the leader of the university as the greatest honor of his life.
UCLA highlighted Block’s significant achievements during his tenure in their announcement, including the university’s consistent top ranking as the number one public university for six consecutive years, a remarkable improvement from its previous position of number four when he assumed leadership.
Under Block’s guidance, student enrollment increased by 24%, and UCLA became the first and only UC school to guarantee housing for undergraduate students. Additionally, the university constructed 15 residential buildings to accommodate its growing student population.
Block also effectively navigated the university through the challenges posed by the pandemic.
Block has been commended for his support of research at the university, resulting in an impressive five Nobel Prizes in 10 years. Furthermore, he nearly doubled external annual research funding, firmly establishing UCLA as a leading research institution, according to the university.
In the past year, UCLA launched two significant projects: UCLA South Bay, a campus spanning 35.5 acres on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, and UCLA Downtown, an impressive high-rise building located in downtown Los Angeles.
During his final year as chancellor, Block intends to focus on the development of a new strategic plan and the enhancement of programs at UCLA South Bay and UCLA Downtown, in addition to other important initiatives.
Block’s tenure also faced challenges, notably the major scandal involving a former UCLA gynecologist who was convicted and sentenced for sexually abusing patients. The repercussions of this case resulted in the UC system paying almost $700 million in settlements.
After stepping down, Block will retain his connection to UCLA as a faculty member. He intends to return to the laboratory and continue his research as part of the Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences within the David Geffen School of Medicine, as well as the Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology within the UCLA College.
The UC Office of the President will initiate a national search for UCLA’s next chancellor.
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