While facing opposition from some conservatives because of past statements on issues such as diversity, equity and inclusion, former University of Michigan President Santa Ono was selected Tuesday to become president of the University of Florida.

The UF Board of Trustees unanimously approved hiring Ono as the school’s 14th president, succeeding former President Ben Sasse, who resigned last summer.

“I believe he is fully aligned with Florida's values and vision for higher education,” said board Vice Chairman Rahul Patel, who headed a presidential search committee that advanced Ono as the sole finalist for the job.

The state university system’s Board of Governors must still approve the appointment.

Saying he’s focused on leading a university that “unites people around shared values, meri

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