SACRAMENTO - Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement today after the University of California Board of Regents named James Milliken the new president of the University of California:

“California’s future depends on the strength of our institutions, and few are more vital than the University of California. Chancellor Milliken brings years of experience and the steady, strategic leadership needed to expand UC’s impact across the state. I am excited to see him drive the next chapter of innovation, talent, and progress that will shape California and the country for generations to come.

“I also want to thank Dr. Michael Drake for his leadership and vision during his tenure - he is a strong partner and his intellect, experience and commitment to our students has helped grow the next generation of California leaders. We wish him well in his retirement.” - Governor Gavin Newsom

James B. (“JB”) Milliken is chancellor of The University of Texas System, where he also holds the Lee Hage and Joseph D. Jamail Regents Chair in Higher Education Leadership. As chancellor, he oversaw 14 academic and health institutions, including seven medical schools and five Carnegie R1 research universities. Before joining the UT System, Milliken served as the chancellor of The City University of New York (CUNY), president of the University of Nebraska, and senior vice president of the University of North Carolina.