Ana Mari Cauce, the President of the University of Washington, has announced that she will be stepping down from her position in June 2025 at the conclusion of her second five-year term. Cauce has been with the institution for nearly 40 years, starting as an assistant professor of psychology in 1986. She became the first woman, first Latina, and first openly gay person to hold the role of President in 2015. Cauce plans to assist with a smooth transition and then return to her faculty position at the university where she teaches psychology and American ethnic studies.
During her tenure as President, Cauce has achieved several milestones, including leading efforts to double the size of the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering, restoring and increasing state support for the university, strengthening relationships with Washington State University and community colleges, and securing funding for the Washington College Grant. She has also been involved in fostering an impact ecosystem that facilitates the translation of faculty research into action in local communities and beyond. Cauce has served on the boards of the Allen Institute for AI and the Washington nonprofit Tech Alliance, furthering the connections between Seattle’s premier research institutions.
Cauce, an immigrant from Cuba who was raised in Miami, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve as President of the University of Washington, describing it as an honor and privilege. She highlighted the impact that UW faculty, staff, students, and alumni have made in the community, the state, and the world. In a recorded departure announcement, Cauce commended UW students for their contributions and mentioned the technology transfer initiatives that are underway to bring faculty research to the forefront of innovation and change. She emphasized the importance of failure as a stepping stone to success, encouraging a mindset of resilience and perseverance.
The departure of Ana Mari Cauce has prompted the UW Board of Regents to initiate a search for her successor, with details to be shared in the coming weeks. Cauce’s legacy as President of the University of Washington includes her commitment to diversity, innovation, and community engagement. She has been a trailblazer in her role, breaking barriers and advocating for the advancement of education and research. Cauce’s impact on the university and the broader community will be felt for years to come, as her leadership has left a lasting impression on the institution and those who have had the privilege of working with her.
Throughout her time as President, Cauce has been a champion of collaboration and partnership, working to strengthen ties between academic institutions, research organizations, and the business community. Her dedication to promoting inclusivity and excellence in higher education has been reflected in her efforts to support students, faculty, and staff at the University of Washington. As Cauce transitions back to her faculty role, her influence and vision will continue to shape the future of the institution and inspire others to strive for excellence and innovation in their work and in their lives.
