Presidential communication

Letter from the President

Office of the President, president@uidaho.edu | Sept. 11, 2026

Dear Vandals,

Earlier this week at the State of the University address, I shared that I will retire as president of the University of Idaho in June 2027, concluding one of the greatest honors of my life.

As a loyal alumnus, I am profoundly grateful to have served this institution in ways I never imagined when I first arrived on campus. This decision is rooted in a deep commitment to the future of our state and the people who make it thrive.

The U of I is more than an institution — it is the engine of opportunity for the entire state of Idaho. Our work directly shapes the economic vitality, cultural richness and educational excellence of our communities from the panhandle to the Treasure Valley. Every breakthrough in our labs, every degree conferred and every Extension program delivered strengthens the fabric of Idaho.

This work is not possible without the extraordinary dedication of our employees. Your expertise, resilience and unwavering commitment to our students and communities ensure that the U of I remains a beacon of progress for our state.

Unprecedented support from our alumni and donors drives our success. From funding scholarships to supporting research and facilities, philanthropic backing makes the difference for the U of I.

Together, we have navigated significant challenges, including the global pandemic and the tragic loss of members of our Vandal Family. Through these trials, the strength of our people shone through. You demonstrated a resilience and compassion that not only sustained us but propelled us forward.

We reversed years of enrollment decline, achieved historic fundraising numbers and made strategic investments that position Idaho for a stronger future. We advanced academic programs and research that solve real-world problems for Idahoans.

We have strengthened student support systems, increased graduation rates and, last spring, we welcomed 2,400 graduates to the Vandal alumni family, which is the ultimate measure of our success.

I am especially grateful to our external partners who have invested in our mission. Your trust has allowed us to serve Idaho more effectively, and the relationships we have built are vital to our shared success.

After considerable reflection, I believe June 2027 is the right time to transition. This timeline allows for a thoughtful handover to the next chapter of leadership, ensuring that the momentum we have built continues. I leave with confidence in our people. The value of our employees is immeasurable and their impact on Idaho is enduring.

There are many cherished memories I will carry, particularly those spent with our students — from football weekends to commencement and the homecoming serpentine. These moments remind us why we do what we do: to serve the next generation of Idaho leaders.

I will approach the months ahead with the same energy and optimism that have guided my presidency. We will continue to advance our strategic priorities, support our incredible employees and build an even stronger University of Idaho for the benefit of all Idahoans.

Go Vandals!

C. Scott Green
President

Snapshots

U of I launches nitrogen calculator

U of I researchers released a new online tool to help farmers optimize nitrogen application. The calculator uses local data to reduce costs and environmental impact while maintaining crop yields, supporting sustainable Idaho agriculture through precise, science-based nutrient management recommendations for growers.
Learn more.

Grad student explores growth stunting

A U of I study investigates childhood growth stunting, analyzing nutritional and environmental factors affecting development. Graduate student Rita Franco’s research aims to identify key interventions to improve child health outcomes globally, providing data-driven insights for policymakers and health organizations.
Learn more.

New grad programs aim to meet health provider demand

U of I’s School of Health and Medical Professions launched new Psy.D. and gerontology programs to address Idaho's behavioral health shortages and aging population. These initiatives train clinicians and multidisciplinary professionals to serve vulnerable communities, expanding the school's six-degree portfolio to strengthen Idaho’s healthcare workforce and meet critical state needs.
Learn more.

Did you know?

The 10th Vandal Athletics Hall of Fame class includes: Jason Shelt, Karl and Kristin Johnson, Keith Gilbertson, Megan Cummings, Kevin Burton, Steve Brown and the 1980-81 men’s basketball team.