Haeger reacts to UA president’s resignation

University of Arizona President Robert Shelton has announced his resignation from the Tucson institution to assume the role of executive director of the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl effective Aug. 1.

Northern Arizona University President John Haeger, who has worked with Shelton since his arrival at UA in 2006, issued the following statement regarding the outgoing president:

“Robert has played a pivotal role in fostering partnerships between higher education institutions in Arizona for five years, and our state will benefit from his contributions for years to come. I especially appreciate the spirit of collaboration that has strengthened between the University of Arizona and Northern Arizona University.

“Further, his leadership at the University of Arizona during the aftermath of Tucson’s tragic shooting brought comfort and reassurance to a community and nation that was grieving.

“I am confident he will do an excellent job in his new role, and I wish the best of luck.”

Haeger, Shelton and Arizona State University President Michael Crow will be participating at the regular meeting of the Arizona Board of Regents on Thursday and Friday at NAU’s High Country Conference Center.