Sasse gets final approval from University of Florida

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WOWT) - The University of Florida Board of Governors has confirmed Ben Sasse as the university’s new president earlier than expected.

It was the final hurdle for the Nebraska senator after UF’s Board of Trustees approved his hiring last week. The vote was expected on Thursday. The board paired Sasse’s announcement — and its congratulations — with the approval of Dr. Kenneth Jessel as president of Florida International University.

“The State University System is incredibly fortunate to have such extremely talented new presidents in Dr. Jessell and Dr. Sasse,” said Brian Lamb, chair of the Board of Governors, which oversees the State University System of Florida. “With your visionary thinking and inspirational leadership, we know you’ll lead these universities to new heights. We look forward to working with you as you build upon the foundation set by the dedicated presidents before you.”

thrilled to join Gator Nation in February — very excited about the work ahead. Melissa and I have had the great honor of serving Nebraskans in the Senate these 8 yrs — I will finish out the upcoming lameduck session and resign in the first week of January https://t.co/W4mS5hnTR9
— Ben Sasse (@BenSasse) November 9, 2022

Sasse’s proposed contract was set for five years with a proposed base salary of $1 million with a retention bonus of another $1 million at that time, plus performance bonuses along the way in addition to a retirement plan. Sasse will be required to live in the university-owned president’s house and could be fired with or without cause.

The Republican is currently making less than $200,000 as a U.S. senator. He is expected to resign from that post, making way for Governor-elect Jim Pillen to appoint his successor.