Monthly Message from President O’Connor - May 2025

As we move through an exciting time of transformation at Palo Alto University, it is essential to recognize the emotions that can arise from change. The departure of our Provost and Chief Academic Officer, Dr. Erika Cameron, as well as my own retirement, naturally create moments of uncertainty. However, I want to assure each of you that Palo Alto University’s strength lies not in any one individual, but in our iron-clad mission: “...PAU prepares its students to address pressing and emerging issues that equitably meet the needs of our ever-changing human condition.” This mission remains our unwavering north star. It is what guides our work, shapes our community, and will continue to inspire and define us as we move forward, regardless of changes in leadership. The heart of this institution is in its purpose, and it is that purpose that will continue to drive us toward a future full of possibilities.

I understand that transitions, especially at this scale, can bring a sense of unease. Please know that I am deeply committed to supporting all of you through this period of change. As you know, we have selected our next President, Dr. Farouk Dey, who will begin on July 1, 2025. I have every confidence in his commitment to our mission and fields. My one-month overlap with Dr. Dey will help ensure a strong orientation and seamless handoff.

Additionally, to help ease any concerns, I want to highlight the comprehensive transition plan we are actively developing to onboard Dr. Dey. This plan includes a formal Board of Trustees transition committee that will include faculty and staff, a robust internal onboarding plan led by Cabinet to support incoming President Dey’s engagement with our community, the preparation of essential data, files, SOPs, and tools from the President’s Office, and a collaborative month of overlap between myself and Dr. Dey to ensure he has the strongest orientation to the role and our community. We remain focused on the long-term success and stability of the university, and are committed to transparency and communication throughout the process. These efforts are designed to keep us anchored in our core values while providing steady leadership throughout this important transition.

We are also launching a rigorous search for our next Provost and Chief Academic Officer—a role central to the academic vision, operations and integrity of our institution, working hand in hand with the president. This moment offers another powerful opportunity to elevate PAU by bringing in leadership that will champion innovation, academic excellence, and our enduring mission.

Though change can be challenging, it is also an invitation to embrace new possibilities. The future of Palo Alto University is bright, and I am excited to see how we will continue to innovate and thrive together. I trust that, as a community, we will emerge from this period stronger than ever, united by our shared mission and commitment to elevating the human condition.